From the Pastor September 14, 2014 Exaltation of the Holy Cross [Pre-empts the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time] The Cross = God’s Plan to Save the World. As I explained in my August 17th article, soon after humanity fell from grace through Adam and Eve’s Original Sin, God declared that ‘Good’ would eventually win and that ‘Evil’ would be conquered - by His saving action and His plan which He disclosed in these words: “Then the LORD God said to the snake: ‘I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; They will strike at your head, while you strike at their heel.’” [Genesis 14a, 15] Exaltation of the Holy Cross. No one who witnessed Christ’s Crucifixion, Death and Burial in AD 33 would recognize the site today! The above sketch shows how much it has changed. But according to pious legend, backed by historical records, the site was inadvertently preserved in the 1st Century when it was ‘paved over’ to discourage pilgrimages and other curiosity seekers! Soon after Christianity was ‘legalized’ by the Emperor Constantine in AD 326, tradition says his mother, Saint Helena, went on pilgrimage to ‘walk where Christ once walked.’ She ordered excavation of the hill called Golgotha; they happened upon a 300 year old burial site and purportedly found relics of the true Cross and articles documenting they were of Pilate’s and Christ’s time. While not an article of our Faith, the finding of these relics gave the Church a reason to honor what is truly essential: the Saving Death our Lord endured for us on His triumphant Cross! Here's the Preface that extols His victorious Cross: Preface for the victory of the glorious Cross It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God. For you placed the salvation of the human race on the wood of the Cross, so that, where death arose, life might again spring forth and the evil one, who conquered on a tree, might likewise on a tree be conquered, through Christ our Lord. Through him the Angels praise your majesty, Dominions adore and Powers tremble before you. Heaven and the Virtues of heaven and the blessed Seraphim worship together with exultation. May our voices, we pray, join with theirs in humble praise, as we acclaim: This Preface honors the Cross for the twofold way it fulfilled this ancient prophecy. First, since the wood of a tree had a role in our downfall, the wood of a tree would be central in our salvation. So just as Eve stretched out her hand to a tree in disobedience, Christ allowed His outstretched arms to be nailed to a tree in total acceptance of God’s will. Thus the very same instrument through which death entered the world is now the source of Resurrection and eternal life. This ‘curse to blessing’ reversal was prefigured by Moses [today’s First Reading] when he lifted up a bronze serpent [symbol of Satan and evil] so that all who were bitten by the desert seraphs might be cured. To this day the symbol for medical healing is the Caduceus or staff of Asclepius. Second, God willed to go back to the ‘scene of the crime’ to undo the Evil One’s deed - which means Jesus willingly stooped to our level or humbled Himself [today’s Second Reading] to save us! And through the Sacrament of Penance, He still embraces our sin-sick souls! According to pious legend, the wood of the Cross came from the once tall, strong dogwood tree. But in humble recognition of its awesome honor, its wood became soft and twisted so it could never be used for a crucifixion again. And each of its cruciform blossoms looks like it was wounded by a nail, and its central bud looks like the nail itself! So, maybe it’s true! In His holy Name, Rev. Thomas J. Serafin Our Parish Prayers Services and Intentions: September 13-21 Saturday Vigil: The Exaltation of the Holy Cross 5:00 pm Anna Hueston r/o: Susan & Joe Mania & family Sunday The Exaltation of the Holy Cross 8:00 am Thomas Dornan r/o: Claire & Bill Long 9:30 am Nicholas Squicciarini r/o: The Edwards family 11:30 am Joan Spies r/o: Petrelli family Monday Our Lady of Sorrows 9:00 am John Deegan r/o: Maureen & Michael Brown Tuesday Saints Cornelius and Cyprian 9:00 am Michael Bocan r/o: Yvonne Shamanski Wednesday 9:00 am Albert Mistove r/o: Walter & Jane Walker Thursday 9:00 am Prayer Service with Holy Communion “For everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven…” a time to be born… We welcome the newly baptized: Brody Jax Gordon Jacob Todd Gordon Kendal Anne Greda Grant Daniel Johnston John Francis Marsh Liam Michael Schenkel Teagan Quinn Schwolow Kayla Lynn TenKate a time to heal… We pray for all the sick of our Parish and especially for: Jack Boland Dave Kreutzer Georgette Boulegeris Helen Pinter Paul Di Ionno Rayna Post Margaret Hunt Paul Urban Names will remain on our sick list for three months after which time they will be removed, unless we are notified to keep them on the list. a time to die… Friday 9:00 am Prayer Service with Holy Communion Saturday Vigil: 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time 5:00 pm Frances Letchford r/o: Ann & Jim Letchford Sunday 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time 8:00 am Gaetano Merola r/o: Elise Ferrara 9:30 am Martin DeSapio r/o: Maria DeSapio 11:30 am Nicholas Squicciarini r/o: Kathy Miller Feast of Saint Francis - Animal Blessing Saturday, October 4 - 3:30 PM On Saturday, October 4, we will celebrate our annual Animal Blessing! All animals large and small are welcome to attend this blessing as long as they are accompanied by a human! We are asking all who attend to bring a donation for the Saint Hubert Animal Shelter in Branchburg. Please note this is also an S.R.F. event. Refer to your event calendar or call your grade coordinator for more information. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 2nd Collection This Weekend - Peter’s Pence This weekend’s Second Collection is for Peter’s Pence. This collection supports the charitable works of the Holy Father and provides emergency assistance for victims of oppression, natural disaster and war. Please be as generous as your means allow. Thank You. Tickets Available After All Masses September 27/28, October 4/5 & 11/12 Parish Ministry Contacts Ministers of the Liturgy To join a ministry, please contact the ministry head. A booklet with the complete list of ministries can be found in the narthex or is available on our website: www.parishesonline/seasthreebridges. Adult Choir/Cantors ........ Brett Walzer ~ 782-1475 x20 Adult Faith Formation ..... Diane Luceri ~ 782-1475 x14 Baptismal Prep ........... Anne & Brian Moore ~ 534-2136 Cancer Support Group ...... Andrew Casella ~ 782-1475 Employment Group ................ Deacon Mike ~ 400-3036 EM of Holy Communion/Homebound/Hospital ............. Larry Dawkins ~ 284-1617 Fatima Rosary .............................. Shirley Frey ~ 806-4889 Guitar Group .......... Rusty & Linda Williams ~ 782-7551 Hospitality-After Mass ....... Pauline Martino ~ 240-5959 Knights of Columbus . Floyd Campbell ~ 732-598-5905 Lazarus Ministry ......................... Anne Hayes ~ 751-5660 Linens Ministry .......................... Parish Office ~ 782-1475 Liturgical Environment ...... Norma Santella ~ 782-1475 Men’s Club .......................... Deacon Paul ~ 782-1475 x13 Military Outreach ...... Chris McPherson ~908-246-5114 Prayer Shawls ........................ Judy Herdman ~ 782-7973 Pat Rivero ~ 806-7890 Readers ...................................... George Keith ~ 369-8650 Respect for Life........................ Helen Schuler ~ 369-6618 R.C.I.A. ................................. Diane Luceri ~ 782-1475 x14 Sacristans ........... Maureen & John Lybarger ~ 369-5331 Seton Seniors .......................... Ben Mulhearn ~ 284-2650 Usher/Minister of Hospitality .... Bob Caron ~ 236-6492 Wedding Coordinator ...........Geri Kaczorek ~ 369-3712 Women’s Spirituality ........ Mary Ann Hauck ~ 369-5483 We acknowledge with appreciation the following Liturgical Ministers who will serve at next weekend’s Masses: September 20 & 21 Youth Ministries Altar Servers ....................... Suzanne Wooby ~ 369-6390 Children’s Choir ........................Coleen Cucci ~ 346-0367 Children’s Liturgy (CLOW) ... Kelly Robison ~ 284-2234 Passion Play ............. Walter & Kathy Urban ~ 788-7414 Religious Formation Main Line ......................... 284-2929 P.C.L............................. Mariam Nawab ~ 284-2929 x23 Confirmation ..................... Jenni Clark ~ 284-2929 x24 RF Secretary................................Gina Perez ~ 284-2929 Safe Environment Background Coordinator ................ Helen Schuler ~ 369-6618 Summer RF..................................Gina Perez ~ 284-2929 Karen Baron ~ 806-4384 VBS .................................. Marissa Sias/Marian Wasitowski seasvbs@yahoo.com WINGS Youth Ministry ....... Jenni Clark ~ 284-2929 x24 jclark@easeton.net WINGS Ministry organizes the following events: Breakfast with Santa; Easter Egg-stravaganza; Epiphany Pageant; Mardi Gras; Trunk or Treat Last Weekend’s Collection September 7: $14,321.31 Thank you! Mortgage Information Beginning Mortgage $ 2,600,000 Current Balance $ 2,219,642 Principal Paid to Date $ 380,358 Interest Paid to Date $ 437,033 Monthly Payment $ 14,761.41 5:00 PM Mass Sacristan: Mary Cestra; EMs: Denise Verdicchio, Liz Delasandro, Barbara Golda, Terry Golda, Kathy Joyal, Geri Kaczorek, Susan Mania, Gordon Eyler; Readers: David Geisler, Fred Fischl; Altar Servers: Jacob Romano, Luke Romano, Collin Smith, Jordan Smith 8:00 AM Mass Sacristan: Judy Ashcraft; EMs: Ann Letchford, Carol Iden, Fran McAfee, Gertrude Neis, Norma Santella, Pat Sheeto, Florence Dzwonczyk, Steve Dzwonczyk; Readers: Louis Ambio, Bob Clarke; Altar Servers: Emily Polkowski, Lucas Polkowski, Madelyn Dowe, Justin Cornetta 9:30 AM Mass Sacristan: Laura Sepesi; EMs: Christine Kukel, Maureen Lybarger, Tim Connolly, Liz Bonsignore, Jackie Ferrari, Jack Gosdick, Kathy Gosdick, Fran Wasitowski; Readers: Jim Bova, Susan Bova; Altar Servers: Danielle Ferrari, John Sibiga, Patrick Waters, Caroline Waters 11:30 AM Mass Sacristan: Lynne Dawkins; EMs: Linda Klug, Patricia Petrelli, Bob Caron, Karen Geddis, Sharon Holderbaum, Marie Sock, Bob Kloss, Cathy Kloss; Readers: Kevin Kilcommons, Tom Boelter; Altar Servers: Joe Schuler, Thomas Murdock, Jenna Kotlar, Nick Merola This Weekend’s Readings Exaltation of the Holy Cross First Reading: Numbers 21:4b-9 The Jews were complaining against God and Moses of the tiring journey through the desert. The Lord punished them for such complaints with the bite of deadly serpents. After hearing the prayers of Moses for his people, the Lord instructed Moses to cure those who became ill with a bronze serpent mounted to a pole for them to see. Second Reading: Philippians 2:6-11 In this letter to the Philippians, Paul tells us how Jesus set aside his form of equality to God and took on a humble, human form - obedient even unto death. God the Father greatly exalted Jesus because of this. Gospel Reading: John 3:13-17 As today’s first reading tells us of Moses raising the bronze serpent in the desert for those to be cured, Jesus says, too, that the Son of Man should be lifted up for all to see so the world might be saved and he who believes in him might enjoy eternal life. © 2002 Bon Venture Services, Inc. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Next Weekend’s Readings Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time First Reading: Isaiah 55:6-9 Second Reading: Philippians 1:20c-24, 27a Gospel: Matthew 20:1-16a Religious Formation News Teaching About God’s Gift of Forgiveness Catechetical Sunday Blessings September 7, 2014 On Catechetical Sunday, parishes across the country will honor those who share in the evangelizing and teaching mission of the Church through a special rite of commissioning and blessing. Here at “St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church” the following Catechists, Teachers, Parish Minsters and Parents will be commissioned to share the faith of the Church with the adults, families, youth, and children of the parish. Susan Apisa Judy Ashcraft Anita Auriemma Robert Besecker Elizabeth Bonsignore Theresa Catanzareti Barbara Ciempola Jenni Clark Tim Connolly Kelly Critelli Christopher Culver Christine DellaPenna Debbie Devine Donna Donovan Alex Ferrari Sharon Finazzo Ellen Gentzel Tracey Giannouris Paula Haggerty Hillary Hall Joan Hanley Tracy Hennessy MaryBeth Hickey Debbie Kaminsky Theresa Kelly Laureen Lauber Denise Lloyd Jennifer Luceri Maureen Lybarger Angela McVerry Tina Merola Kathy Miller Luisa Nastasi Carmela Noto Samantha Pellicane Alexa Perez Erica Piechota Gina Raimondo Sal Randazzese Nettie Rivituso Gladys Rodriguez Ann Rolon Pamela Saus Dot Scarpa Christina Schuler Janet Scott Maddy Sias Anthony Siniscalco Donna Smolenski Katia Tempalsky Kathy Urban Walter Urban Denise Verdicchio Marian Wasitowski Jen Zook I thank each of you for showing us how to live our faith! We will be sure to pray for you throughout the coming year. Mariam Nawab PCL “Children are a gift from the Lord.” PS.127:3 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Attention Parents of Upcoming 2nd Graders: Mark Your Calendars for a First Holy Communion/First Penance meeting on September 29, 2014 at 12:30pm OR 7:30pm Religious Formation Upcoming Events September 2014 Sept. 13/14: FHC Prep - Sign in begins Sept. 14: Echoes of Faith-Theology Prayer & Spirituality 10:30-12:30pm Sept. 22: Confirmation Prep - Church Tour During Class Sept. 27/28: Confirmation Prep - Rite of Enrollment 5:00 Mass OR 11:30 Mass with meeting immediately following in Holy Family Room Sept. 28: Echoes of Faith - Session #1 - 10:30 Holy Family Room Sept. 29: Confirmation Prep - Learning Session#1 - Sacraments of Initiation Sept. 29/30: Grade 1 - Church Tour Sept. 29: FHC Prep - Parent Meeting - 12:30 OR 7:30pm- HFR Sept. 30: Echoes of Faith -Session #1- 9:30 Holy Family Room Oct. 1: Grade 1 - Church Tour First Holy Communion Candidates Sign in begins this weekend. Please sign your name and take any handouts at the table in the back of the Narthex. Remember to go to CLOW (Children’s Liturgy of the Word) during any Mass you attend. Echoes of Faith Training - The Catechetical Set Sundays-10:30-12:30pm or Tuesdays-9:30-11:30 Getting Started as a Catechist: Sunday, Sept. 28, 2014 or Tues, Sept. 30, 2014 Role of the Catechist: Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014 or Tues, Oct. 7, 2014 The Person of the Catechist: Sunday, Oct. 12, 2014 or Tues, Oct. 14, 2014 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Attention Parents of Children in Grades 5-8 FAMILY LIFE PROGRAM Soon the children of the community of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish and their families will begin a unique catechesis in Catholic family living. They will be studying the RCL Benziger Family Life program. We have committed to provide this opportunity because families need our support in growing in the faith. Please support this effort with your prayers and your involvement. If you are one of the participating families, please share what you are learning with your friends and neighbors. If your family is not participating, support those who are with words of encouragement and support. This program will bring lasting benefits to our community. Parents of students in grades 5-8 are invited to attend an informational meeting about the Family Life Program. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have at that time. The meetings will be held in the Holy Family Room on Oct. 13, 14, and 15 at 5 p.m.; and on Oct. 14 also at 6:45 p.m. for Confirmation parents in the Church. Adult Faith Formation Registration is open for all of our fall Adult Faith Formation programs which take place in the Holy Family Room at SEAS—one or more will be sure to inspire you and enrich your life! For more information - or to register for any program - call Diane Luceri at 782-1475 x 14 or email her at dluceri@easeton.net. Quick Journey through the Bible Monday Evenings: 7:00-8:30 pm October 6th -- November 24th You Can Understand the Bible! If you want a better understanding of our faith, and a deeper relationship with God, then join us for A Quick Journey Through the Bible. This program provides the clearest, easiest, and most accessible way to understand Scripture. This study is suitable for both beginners and for those who are experienced at Bible study, because it simplifies the complexity of the Bible through an easy-to-follow narrative approach, and an ingenious color-coded Bible Timeline. It is a great way for you to get the “big picture” of Salvation History from the Catholic perspective, and to see how the Bible reveals God’s loving plan for your life. Materials required: workbook ($20), New American Bible. PLEASE REGISTER NO LATER THAN SEPT. 22nd Theology of the Body Tuesdays, 9:30-11:00 am or 7:30-9:00 pm October 7th - November 25th If you’re wondering if there’s more to life than just “getting by” and are ready to focus on what really matters, then discover the extraordinary Catholic teaching known as the Theology of the Body. It will give you a revolutionary and fulfilling vision for life, as it offers a new way to authentically see yourself, your faith, your relationships, and your world. Given to us by Pope John Paul II, the Theology of the Body is setting people free to live the life of greatness to which we are all called. If you desire to live out the fullest meaning and purpose of your life, then join us for this amazing discovery! No home study is required. Materials required: study guide ($15). Those who have registered can pick up their study guides now. If you would like to sign up, PLEASE REGISTER NO LATER THAN SEPT. 23rd Echoes of Faith Plus: Prayer & Spirituality TODAY!! Sunday, September 14th 10:30 am -12:30 pm What is prayer? Many are surprised when they hear that prayer is “listening and responding to God!” Aren’t we the ones that begin prayer? How does God start the dialogue with you in your life? How can you best respond to this call? Come join us as we reflect on these issues and more as we explore the 4th Pillar of the Catechism, “Prayer & Spirituality!” Note: This session is required for Catechist certification Mary: A Biblical Walk with the Blessed Mother Wednesdays: 9:30-11:00 am or 7:30-9:00 pm Sept. 24th –Nov.12th Filmed on location in the Holy Land, this study will place you in the midst of the powerful drama of Mary’s earthly life as portrayed in Scripture, taking you through her joys and her sorrows. You will learn how she works in our lives today, drawing us ever closer to her divine Son. The schedule is as follows: Sept. 24 Session 1 Introduction Oct. 1 Session 2 The Annunciation Oct. 8 Session 3 The Visitation Oct. 15 Session 4 The Nativity Oct. 22 Session 5 The Presentation & The Finding of Jesus in the Temple Oct. 29 Session 6 The Wedding at Cana Nov. 5 Session 7 Mary at the Cross Nov. 12 Session 8 Mary Crowned with Glory If you have registered for this program, you may pick up your study binder now. If you are interested in signing up for this program, please contact Diane Luceri for more information. Lighthouse Catholic Media CDs and books Is your schedule too hectic for you to attend sessions at the church? Do you find yourself in the car a lot, either commuting to work or driving your kids all over? Then be sure to take advantage of the Inspirational Catholic CDS that are offered on the kiosks at the church—only $3 for a CD! We also have 4 great Catholic books on the kiosks at the price of only $4 each! CDs and books can be found on the kiosks in the hallway outside the narthex or in the foyer outside the parish hall. Please place all donations directly into the kiosk Altar Server Ministry - Third Grade & Older RCIA: The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults WE HAVE GOOD NEWS TO SHARE! In today’s Gospel, John tells us that God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, not to condemn us but to save us. Would you, or anyone you know like to know more about our God who loves us more than we can imagine? Would you, or anyone you know like to know more about his Son Jesus, who gave his life so that we would not perish to sin? Come to an Inquiry Session which are held on Sundays beginning on October 5th, from 10:30 am-12:30 pm. Participation in a session does not require a commitment to belong to the Catholic Faith Family. Anyone who is unbaptized, baptized into a non-catholic Christian denomination, or baptized Catholic but never received First Eucharist and Confirmation, is invited to come and inquire about the God who brings us Peace and Hope and the Catholic Faith that helps us to hear and live that message. For more information, come to any Mass the weekend of September 20th & 21st. There will be speakers at each Mass talking about their experience in the RCIA. Following each Mass you will have the opportunity to meet with the RCIA team to receive more information about the process and to have any questions answered. If you prefer, you may contact our RCIA Director, Diane Luceri, at 782-1475 X 14 or dluceri@easeton.net, at any time to find out more information or to set up an appointment. Adult Catholics needing Confirmation should also contact Diane. An information and training session for both children AND a parent will be held on Sunday, September 21 at 4:00 PM in the church. All interested in this ministry should email Suzanne Wooby at woobyfamily@comcast.net with child's name, grade, and email address. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ WINGS Teen/Tween Ministries The youth groups are gearing up for the upcoming school year! There are so many exciting ministries available to our teens and tweens! Visit the WINGS page on the parish website to learn about upcoming events and meetings, as well as opportunities for service and leadership, friendship and FUN! The WINGS group helps as part of the Confirmation Prep Team, and runs events for the church community, including the Youth Booth at the Parish Picnic, a Haunted House at Trunk or Treat, Prayer Fair, Breakfast with Santa, Epiphany Pageant, Mardi Gras, Easter Egg-Stravaganza, and there are many more new and fun ideas in the works! This year we are also establishing a scholarship program and are in need of a few more people to join the scholarship award committee. If you can help with this committee, or would like to be involved with the tween or teen ministry, please visit the WINGS page on our Parish Website or contact Jenni Clark at jclark@easeton.net. You can also check the bulletin board outside of the Religious Formation office for calendars, flyers, and updates. SEAS Ministry News SEAS Youth Ministries SEAS’ Angels Children's Choir Are you a kid who loves to sing? Would you like to help our church get closer to Jesus by praying through song? Then come & check out the Children’s Choir! SEAS Angel Choir runs from October till May. We rehearse on Sunday mornings in the Church from 10:30-11:00 AM and lead song at 5:00 PM on the first Saturday of the month & for special events. There is no fee, no auditions and no pre-registration required. Watch the bulletin in late September for more information regarding our first rehearsal which will include a brief parent meeting and registration. For more info, please contact Coleen Cucci at 908-346-0367 or by email at seaskidschoir@gmail.com. Military Ministry - Military and Veterans Families Wednesday, September 17, 7:30 pm Military veterans, active duty/reserve military personnel, families and friends of those who served.... ALL parishioners are welcomed to attend but we particularly would like OUR veterans to come and help us design this ministry based on your experiences. The mission of this ministry is to address the numerous emotional, spiritual and pastoral needs of those men and women who have, and continue to serve and defend our country in all branches of military service. If you have any questions, please contact Chris McPherson, Parish Military Ministry Coordinator at 908-246-5114 or at cmcpherson73@embarqmail.com. Women’s Spirituality Group WSG Day of Reflection What: "Companions on the Journey - What to Pack" Who: Presented by Sr. Mary Joseph Albright, SCC, of Quellen Spirituality Center, Mendham When: Saturday, October 11 Registration from 9:00 to 9:30 AM Program begins at 9:45 AM and concludes by 3:00 PM Suggested Donation: $30 includes breakfast items and catered lunch. Sign up in the Narthex after all Masses. ++++++++++ This year’s kick-off meeting - October 2 All women of the parish are invited to join in as the Women's Spirituality Group gets underway again with our meeting on October 2 at 7:30 PM. Our presenter for the evening will be Brett Walzer, SEAS Director of Sacred Music. ++++++++++ 2014-2015 Meeting Schedule This year’s meetings are scheduled as follows: November 6 Giving Thanks December 4 Christmas Creativity January 1 NO MEETING (New Year's Day) February 5 Book Discussion March 5 Shroud of Turin April 2 NO MEETING (Holy Thursday) May 7 Mother's Day June TBD Year-end Dinner More details on each of these gatherings will be available as the information is finalized. We are also planning to assist at the Penance Services in Advent and Lent, the Anointing Mass in February, and the Stations of the Cross in Lent. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Moms - Time for a Change? Ready for a little Peace and Joy? Momnipotent - 8 week study for Moms Tuesdays, 10:00-11:45 am First & Third Tuesday’s Starting October 7 Is being a mother what you thought it would be? The exhaustion, monotony, mounting unfinished projects, loss of a sense of self… Many moms quietly resign themselves to the idea that peace, happiness, and joy are things they will need to find in spite of motherhood, not because of it. Journey with a diverse group women as they discuss real issues that moms face every day. For more information or to register, contact Jennie Stanbro by email: jenniestanbro@gmail.com or phone: 908-892-3559. Materials Required: Study Workbook ($30) Respect Life Ministry October is “Respect for Life” month. Please join our ministry on Sunday, September 28 after the 11:30 AM Mass to discuss several opportunities to participate in local Pro-life events. Also remember the Respect Life Ministry is offering the rosary after all Masses on the first Sunday of each month. The Fatima Rosary will continue to be recited at 4:15 PM on the first Saturday of each month. Starting next month, we will also begin holding Eucharistic Adoration on the first Monday of each month after the 9:00 AM Mass (unless it is a holiday and the Parish Office is closed). ++++++++++ 40 Days for Life 40 Days for Life will begin on September 24 and end on November 2 at local locations in Plainfield, Philipsburg and Woodbridge. We encourage parishioners to fast and pray during this period for an peaceful end to the culture of death. Visit http://40daysforlife.com/location to register to keep vigil at specific times each week. Please help those who need to know there are options. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Seton Men’s Club - Upcoming Meetings There will be no regularly scheduled meeting in September due to the Parish Picnic. The next meeting of the Men’s Club will be Thursday, October 9 at 7:30 PM in the Holy Family Room. Please join us and our guest speaker, Rev. Alex Carles, Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville. Our November meeting will be on November 13. Other SEAS Information Parish Email Distribution List During the week of August 11, two emails were sent to all parishioners. If you did not receive an email from the Parish Office, (email address: jferrari@parishmail.com), first check your `spam` folder. If you still did not get an email, it means we do not have a current email address for you on file. If you would like to receive future email communications from us, please email the Parish Office at parishoffice@easeton.net. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Confirmation Program Needs Supplies We are collecting magazines for a project for the 8th grade Confirmation Preparation classes. If you are looking to get rid of your stack of magazines (family friendly, of course) please drop them off in the RF Office and we will dispose of them for you! Thanks! Silver & Golden Anniversary Celebration Sunday, October 26, 2014 at 4:00 PM You are cordially invited to celebrate your 25th or 50th Wedding Anniversary with the Church of Metuchen. Renew your marriage vows and receive a personalized certificate from Bishop Paul G. Bootkoski at a special Evening Prayer Service in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. Application forms may be secured by contacting SEAS parish office or by logging on to the diocesan website: www.diometuchen.org. Click on EVENTS tab (top of page); scroll over to EVENTS BY CATEGORY (left side of page) and Click on MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT; click on SILVER & GOLD ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION; click on REGISTRATION FORM. Please note: this form can be typed on and printed out but cannot be forwarded. If you wish to keep the information it must be SAVED AS a word document in your computer. Return completed forms to SEAS Parish Office to be signed by a pastoral minister and forwarded to the Family Life Office. Registration deadline is Monday, October 6. A confirmation letter will be sent once your application has been processed. Formal invitations and seating tickets will be mailed approximately two weeks prior to the celebration. Tickets are not required for guests. Everyone is welcome to attend this joyous event. For additional information call the Family Life Office/Diocese of Metuchen 732-562-1990 x1705. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ SEAS Craft Show needs your help with supplies! Do you buy coffee? Perhaps you use snacks in plastic containers for your family (pretzels usually are sold like this)? Sugar? The list goes on! YOU CAN HELP! We are collecting large wide mouth plastic containers with covers to use during this year’s show. All we ask is that you clean it out and drop it off at the Parish Office! Thanks!! Around the Diocese St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church Tricky Tray Auction - Friday, October 3, 2014 Over 100gift certificates and many prizes including flat screen TV, outdoor grill, Kitchen Aid Mixer, iPad, household items, appliances, theme baskets, door prizes, food and a 50/50. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Auction begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 which includes one sheet of tickets, delicious desserts, coffee and tea. Stuffed Cabbage, kielbasa and sauerkraut sandwiches, meatball sandwiches, hotdogs, hamburgers, soda and water can be purchased, so come early. Tickets can be preordered by contacting Marge at 908-722-5894 or Betty at 908-782-8325. Bring your friends and be ready for an evening of fun, good food and winning some great prizes. Attendees must be 18 years of age. More information available on www.trickytray.com. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ An Invitation The spirituality of St. Ignatius Loyola has guided those seeking a discerning way to integrate their prayer with apostolic action. To learn more about Christian Life Community (CLC), a worldwide lay community lived out in small local groups of individuals dedicated to prayer, support, and service, please join us for an evening introduction event. Tuesday, September 23 – 7-8:15p m Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi 32 Elm Avenue, Metuchen 08840 Community Room (located on lower level) Sponsored by: Catholic Charities Office of Parish Social Ministry. For more information call Maria Hunter at 732-387-1315 or Terri Mierswa at 201835-6485. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Walk for the JOY of Life! Please join Life Choices Resource Center for our Annual Walk for Life Saturday, October 11, 2014 - 9am-12pm Merrill Park, Iselin (Rain or Shine) Bishop Bootkoski will be Blessing our new Mobile Life Unit @ 10am Confirmation Service Hours Provided India & Sri Lanka Apostolates: Cultural Mass The Office of Multi-Cultural Ministry invites you to celebrate our Heritage with Catholics from Sri Lanka, Goa, Mangalore, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and other parts of India on Sat., Sept. 27 at St. Bartholomew Church (470 Ryders Ln, East Brunswick, 08816) from 10:45 am-2:00 pm. For more information: metuchenindia@gmail.com or call Sr. Ruth Bolarte 732-562-2454. DJ, Refreshments, Games – Family Fun! Distance or Time Restrictions! No You Can Make the Difference in the Life of a Mother & Child Go to www.LifeChoicesRC.com to download a Pledge Form. Click on the ‘Walk for Life’ link! Call (732) 516-0911 Annual Charity Golf Event We need Sponsors to help fund programs like our much-appreciated monthly Poker Day & Lunch at Veterans Hospital in Lyons, NJ The Knights of Columbus Council 15540 at SEAS is pleased to announce our Second Annual Charity Golf Event. It is nearly upon us! Last year, over $5,500 was raised to fund the many outreach programs of the council like: Lyon's VA Hospital, Life Choices in Phillipsburg, the ARC Hunterdon, The Home for Battered Women, Immaculata H.S. and the Special Olympics. Our Charity Golf Event is our single largest fundraising event of the year. The fun will be held on Monday, September 22 at Beaver Brook Country Club. Play is open to all. As many have requested, this year we will have a dinner-only option so more may participate. In order to continue supporting these programs, we are asking everyone who can participate as a Sponsor to consider doing so. Pamphlets with details on how you can be a Sponsor will be handed out after all Masses this weekend. All checks should be made payable to: Knights of Columbus Council 15540 and mailed to: Tim Connolly, 48 Copper Penny Rd, Flemington, NJ 08822 Questions may be directed to: Joe Lang at 908-371-0885, Tim Connolly at 908-788-0996, Mike Schuler at 908-812-8298, or Bob Besecker at 908-310-6236.