TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME OCTOBER 20, 2013

1. TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME OCTOBER 20, 2013 “Will not God secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night?” The Lord loves in us the kind of persistence that characterizes the widow who “keeps bothering” the judge until he delivers a just decision. Because such persistence testifies to a promise that we have been given. “Remain faithful to what you have learned and believed.” Namely, to the promise God has planted in you. “Be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient.” Moses witnesses to this: as long as he remains with his arms in the form of a cross, the promises of God come true. that they will succeed in getting an answer by dint of words (Matt 6:7). // This gospel demonstrates in a remarkable way the danger of interpreting parables as allegory. In an allegory, every element has another dimension of meaning. A parable works as a whole to make a single point or to raise a disturbing question. In this parable it would be a mistake to equate God with the judge. It would be even more of a mistake to equate the woman’s obstinate pleading with a superstitious attempt to pry an answer from God. // Jesus’ parable is set under the heading of preserving prayer. It calls Christians to unceasing vigilance. Prayer is less an act which forces God’s hand, but much more one which opens us to the always available gifts of God. ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST PARISH MINERSVILLE, PA www.StMatthewTheEvangelistParish.org Rectory Office Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM SAINT MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST WELCOMES ALL No matter what your present status in the Catholic Church; no matter what your current family or marital situation; no matter what your past or present religious affiliation; no matter what your personal history, age, background, race, ethnicity, etc.; you are Invited, Welcomed, Accepted, Loved and Respected at Saint Matthew the Evangelist Parish!’ SAFE ENVIRONMENT COORDINATOR: Sr. Meg Cole(610-289-8900x222) VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR: Wendy S. Krisak (1-800-791-9209) WEEKDAY MASS AT 8:00 AM MON – Veronica Darosh by Parish Religious Education Students and Staff (MM) TUE – For Intentions of Those Who Prayed for My Brother Kenny by Mary WED – Helen Bluff by Julie Kubich and The Birthday Group THU – Rev. John Pavlosky (Estate) FRI – Diane Gardner by Ed and Aldona Butler SAT – 4:00 PM – Andrew Botek by Wife, Bertha SUN – 7:00 AM – Butcavage and Farrell Families by Family 9:00 AM – Ryan Wiscount (Annv) by Great-Grandmother Heintzleman 11:00 AM – Betty Wentz by John and Jodi Koshulsky and Sons ******************************************************************************************************************************************** REQUIESCANT IN PACE: May Jesus, the Lord of the Harvest, take unto Himself: ANNA T. CHESONIS, a member of the former St. Francis of Assisi Parish, and a member of our Parish Family, who died Monday, October 14, and was buried from our Parish on Thursday, October 17; JENNIE T. WENTZ, a member of the former St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish, and a member of our Parish Family, who died Monday, October 14, and was buried from our Parish Friday, October 18. May Mary, Mother of Mercy, obtain comfort from Jesus, her risen son, for their families and friends. ET LUX PERPETUA LUCEAT EIS! ******************************************************************************************************************************************** THE WEEKLY CALENDAR: To you I call; for you will surely heed me, O God;/ turn your ear to me; hear my words./ Guard me as the apple of your eye;/ in the shadow of your wings protect me. (Cf. Ps 17 (16):6,8) THE TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, October 20 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 6:30 AM and 10:45 AM. 0. Jesus sets before us a parable sketched from life. A persistent widow importunes an uncooperative judge until she obtains satisfaction. // From this account, let us not conclude that the way to pray to God is to bore him to death or to drive him crazy. Only the Gentiles imagine DIOCESAN COLLECTION: WORLD MISSION SUNDAY: Our parish will celebrate World Mission Sunday. This year we are invited to act in solidarity with missionaries in India and throughout the world. Every day, faithful missionaries are reaching out in the name of Christ, offering practical, emotional and spiritual care to communities, children and families in desperate need, bringing the light of Christ to the darkest of circumstances. Please use the Special Mission Sunday Envelope found in your envelope boxes. www.IAmAMissionary.org. ST. JOSEPH LEARNING CENTER COLLECTION: After all weekend masses, the Knights of Columbus, Schuylkill County 431, will be collecting funds at the exit doors for the St. Joseph Learning Center. All funds received go directly to the center. Your support is appreciated. THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS(FPC): 11:00 AM Mass. Jesus told us to ask the Harvest Master to send laborers into his harvest. We hope the prayers of our participating families will bear fruit. May God be attentive to BERNIE AND MARGE WALASAVAGE who will host the Family Prayer Chalice for Vocations this week. Call 570-399-5056 or sign up in Church. FAMILY PERSPECTIVE: The widow in today’s gospel is praised for her PERSEVERANCE. In our homes perseverance is a critical ingredient to resolving differences and teaching lessons and skills to children. Perseverance is always an act of faith in the goodness of the other person. PRO-LIFE REFLECTION: The deliberate killing of innocent persons, whether they be pre-born or born, through all forms of abortion, infanticide, euthanasia or any other means is considered to be unethical, immoral, evil, and is a direct interference in God’s plan for that life He sent into the world. STEWARDSHIP: “…be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient...” 2 Timothy 4:2. It is not always convenient to be a good steward, especially when all the temptations of our busy and materialistic world get in the way. Yet, we must be persistent even when it is inconvenient. This persistence marks the true follower of Christ. LAST WEEK YOU CONTRIBUTED: Sunday: $3,194; Fuel: $614; Expenses: $4,202.45. Thank you for your generosity! FRATERNAL CHARITY: ST. VINCENT DE PAUL FOOD PANTRY– Your donation of all TYPES OF COFFE AND TEA will allow the SVDP Society to aid the needy of our area. Volunteer for our SVDP Society Outreach and God’s Bountiful Table. Call 570-544-2739. VOTIVES:(1) SANCTUARY: IMO David Montello by Sister, Gloria. (2) ALTARS: BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: For the Health of Evan Gober by Grandparents, Stan and Sally; IMO Catherine Gober by Family; For the Health of Adele Grabusky by Katherine. DIVINE MERCY: IMO Helen Bluff by Julie Kubich and The Birthday Group; IMO Veronica Orlosky by Theresa Lesnefsky; IMO Veronica Darosh by Edward Butler; IMO Edith Lescavage by Edward and Aldona Butler. ALTAR OF SACRIFICE: IMO Alice Lacey by Edward and Aldona Butler; IMO Glen Snyder by Edward and Aldona Butler. (3) BEFORE: ST. JOSEPH: Special Intention. REREDOS NICHE: IMO Rev. Joseph F. Reilly by Parents. ST. ANTHONY: For the Health of Bonnie Snyder by Edward and Aldona Butler. ST. ANNE: For the Health of John Sokola by Katherine. ST. PETER: For the Health of George Homa and Special Intention by Wife and Family. ST. BARBARA: IMO George V. Yannaccone by Daughter, Cheryl and Family. Call 570-544-2211 to memorialize votives. FOOD PREPARATION AT OUR PARISH CENTER: Pierogi Making Sunday, October 20, 27 – 9:00 AM Monday, October 21, 28 – 9:00 AM PLEASE LEND YOUR PARISH A HAND! EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

2. CHINESE AUCTIONS: 1) 1st ANNUAL TRAVIS NEWTON MEMORIAL PUMPKIN FESTIVAL: Doors open 11:00 AM; Auction starts 2:00 PM. Good Shepherd Cafeteria. Plenty of prizes for you to check out! Food and baked goods available! 2) Doors open 12:00 Noon; Auction starts 2:00 PM. Forestville Fire Company. Lots of big prizes including 42 inch TV, lap top computer, money tree, and more! 3) Doors open at 9:30 AM; Auction starts at 2:00 PM. St. Ambrose Parish Center. Prizes include an iPad, Disney Passes, and more! Food and refreshments available. MONDAY, October 21 – PASTORAL NOTE: Msgr. William Handges will be saying Mass Monday through Friday. Our thanks to him! TUESDAY, October 22– ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, the Good Shepherd School Building. Contact our Coordinator of Religious Education, Rosalie Novack (570-544-2211) for more information. WEDNESDAY, October 23 – DEVOTIONS TO ST. PEREGRINE: 8:00 AM Mass. Ask St. Peregrine to help cancer patients / caregivers. GOD’S BOUNTIFUL TABLE: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Fr. Anthony Ricapito Annex. THURSDAY, October 24 – “SOUNDS OF THE SPIRIT” CONTEMPORARY CHOIR REHEARSAL: 7:00 PM, Church Loft. Call 570-544-2355. BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. St. Francis Center for Renewal, Bethlehem. Will help participants address their new “normal” and provide them with tools to resume living their lives. Call 610-867-8890 for more information. FRIDAY, October 25 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 7:45 AM. SATURDAY, October 26 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 3:30 PM. THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, October 27 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 6:30 AM and 10:45 AM. THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS (FPC): JULIA KUBICH AND RITA TATUSKO will host the FPC this week. Call 570-399-5056 or Sign-Up in the Church Vestibule. CHINESE AUCTION: Doors open 10:00 AM; Auction starts 1:00 PM. St. Nicholas Hall, Primrose. Donation is $5. Plenty of theme baskets and prizes! Food and refreshments are available. All proceeds benefit St. Nicholas School. Browse-n-Bid on Saturday, October 26, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Call 570-544-4581 for more information. SECOND COLLECTION ENVELOPE: (1) CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT: Your contribution will help defray the cost of improvements for all Parish Buildings. (2) Please catch up with any missed envelopes. Thank you for your generosity! ************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************* MINISTERS AT MASS FOR THE THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME OFF. PROC.LECTORS EUCH. MIN.ALTAR SERVERS SAT 4:00 PM Botek Family Michael Novack Gloria Paltanavage Nathan Tropp Michael Perzel SUN 7:00 AM Butcavage and John Andruchek Nick Quinn Nicholas Quinn Farrell Family Maria Quinn Gabriella Quinn 9:00 AM Wiscount Family Linda Butensky Mary Regina Mundy Abby Schoffstall Jonathan Kriston 11:00 AM Wentz Family Nicole Forney Jack Ruscavage Adams / Kuehn Families ************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************* COMING EVENTS: Please be sure to mark your calendar! OCTOBER 28 – PARISH MEETING: 7:00 PM, Parish Center. To discuss ideas for activities to fund future improvements to the Parish Center. THE HOLY SACRIFICE OF THE MASS: 5:00 PM, last Monday of each month, Our Lady’s Chapel of St. Patrick Church, Pottsville. Veneration of a First-Class Relic of Saint Pauline Visintainer to follow. Call 622-1802 for information. OCTOBER 29 – PARENTS’ MEETING FOR FIRST PENANCE: 6:30 PM, Good Shepherd Chapel. OCTOBER 30 – ASSUMPTION BVM NUT ROLL SALE: $14 each to be delivered on November 19. ORDER DEADLINE IS TODAY! Call the school office (570-622-0106) to order. OCTOBER 31 – NOVEMBER 3–PARISH MISSION: Conducted by Fr. Michael Shea, C.M. (Vincentian Father). Themes: All Saints Day: “Do whatever He tells you” and “The Church Triumphant”; All Souls Day: “Do whatever He tells you” and “The Church Suffering”; Sunday: “Do whatever He tells you” and “The New Evangelization.” Please make time to attend! NOVEMBER 1 – ALL SAINTS DAY: A Holy Day of Obligation. Mass schedule: 7:00 PM (eve before), 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM. NOVEMBER 2 – ALL SOULS DAY: Mass schedule: 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Pastoral Note: 1) We would like to decorate our Church with Vigils for this special day. Please help us! Call the Rectory (570-544-2211) for Vigil Memorializations ($5 per Vigil). 2) We respectfully remind you to return your All Souls Day Remembrance Offering. The persons listed on your Remembrance Offering Envelope will be remembered at Mass throughout the month of November. NATIVITY BVM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEW YORK CITY BUS TRIP: Bus leaves from Nativity BVM High School at 7:00 AM; Departs New York City at 7:00 PM. Cost is $40. Call Greg (570-622-1859) for more information. NOVEMBER 3 – ANNUAL TURKEY BINGO: Doors open at 12:00 Noon; Bingo starts at 2:00 PM. Good Shepherd Cafeteria. Admission $3.00. Donations of baked goods would be appreciated and should be brought directly to the Cafeteria today. Just place your name on these items. Food and refreshments will be available. For more information, call Theresa (570-544-4316) or Rose Ann (570-544-5304). ROAST BEEF DINNER: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Nativity BVM High School Cafeteria. Cost: Adults $8; Children $6. Dinner includes roast beef, mashed potatoes, vegetable, dessert and drink. Call 570-294-0551 for more information. CHINESE AUCTION: Doors open at 10:00 AM; auction starts at 2:00 PM, St. Clare of Assisi Parish. Tickets are $3 per sheet or $5 for two sheets. Food and baked goods available. Need not be present to win. Call 570-429-0701 for more information. 40 DAYS FOR LIFE VIGIL TO END ABORTION: Continuing until today, Allentown Women’s Center, Bethlehem. All are invited to pray outside for an hour. The goal is to have enough people praying for 40 days in a row 12 hours a day. Join us as we pray for the conversion of the parents’ souls to choose life for their child, and if they do not, we pray that they turn to God to be healed from post abortion trauma. Call 610-704-6935 for more information. NOVEMBER 4 – MASS OF REMEMBRANCE: 6:00 PM Mass. THANKSGIVING NUT ROLL SALE: St. Stephen Church, Port Carbon. $14 per roll. DEADLINE TO ORDER IS TODAY!. Pick-up is November 20th. Call 570-622-6600 to place your order. NOVEMBER 9 – ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH POTTSVILLE CHRISTMAS BAZAAR: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Sunday, November 10th, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM). Various crafts, Christmas ornaments, jewelry, decorations, bargain table, theme baskets, baked goods stand and much more! Food available includes hot roast beef platters, hot dogs, hamburgers, homemade soups, and more! Call 622-5470. NOVEMBER 12 – PROTECTORS OF THE UNBORN PRECIOUS SOULS’ PRO-LIFE GROUP MONTHLY MEETING: Everyone welcome – both men and women. Come join us and become the voice for these “Precious Souls” which God has created. Together we can make a difference. Meetings are second Tuesday of each month. Call 570-345-4619 for location and time. NOVEMBER 13 – GOD’S BOUNTIFUL TABLE: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Fr. Anthony Ricapito Annex. NOVEMBER 15, 16, 17 – SOUP AND BAKE SALE: Parish Center. Soups include: Chicken Pot Pie, Chili Con Carne, Minestrone, Split Pea. $7 per quart (cold). NOVEMBER 22-24 – ST. FRANCIS RETREAT HOUSE WEEKEND RETREAT: Topic is: “I’ve Suffered a Great Loss.” The retreat is intended for widows and widowers who can benefit from support knowing that they are not alone. Offering is $165. Call 610-258-3053 ex 10. NOVEMBER 28 – THANKSGIVING DAY MEALS: The Knights of Columbus, Schuylkill Council 431, in conjunction with other councils in Schuylkill County, will again be providing free, in-home delivered meals to all those in need living in Schuylkill County. To be placed on the list, please call one of the following numbers with your name, address, phone number, and number of meals needed. If no answer leave a message and someone will call you back to confirm the information. The numbers to call are 570-691-1429 or 570-628-3333. Meals will be delivered on Thanksgiving Day between the hours of 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Parties must be at home as meals will not be left on the door- step and we can not guarantee we will be able to get back to you. December 1 – 31 – SMTE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY CALENDAR: 31 Days of prizes, cash and kind, donated by parishioners and local businesses. One winner each day. Winners eligible to win every day of the month! Cost $5 each. Call the Rectory (570- 544-2211) or Julie Kubich (570-544-5231) for your calendar. What a great early holiday gift! Get yours as soon as possible! DECEMBER 5 – ST. MATTHEW’S TRAVELERS’ RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR BUS TRIP: 11:00 AM Matinee. 2nd Mezzanine seating.$95 per person includes show and bus. Leaves Minersville 6:30 AM; Departs New York 6:00 PM. Call Julie (570- 544-5231) or the Rectory (570-544-2211). Your payment is your reservation. DECEMBER 11 – HOLIDAY FOOD SALE: Homemade pierogi by the dozen ($6.00) and kielbasa 2 lb links ($7.00). Pick-up is from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM today at the Parish Center. PRE-ORDER ONLY. Call Sophie Kuchta (570-624-3619) or the Rectory (570-544-2211) to order. ORDER DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 6. DECEMBER 16 – ST. MATTHEW’S TRAVELERS’ MOHEGAN SUN CASINO BUS TRIP: Cost: $23; Rebate: $25 to play. Leaves R&J at 8:00 AM; Quandel’s at 8:30 AM. Call Julie (570-544-5231) or Helen (570-544-5465) to reserve your spot. MAY 18, 2014 – SPAGHETTI DINNER: More information to follow. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ THANK YOU: Three New Brass Collection Baskets were donated to our Parish IMO George and Stella Pytko by Son, George J. Pytko and Daughter, Joanne Panak. THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENOROSITY AND KINDNESS!