THIRD SUNDAY IN
ORDINARY TIME
JANUARY 26, 2014
Saint Paul urges the Corinthians to “be united
in the same mind and in the same purpose”
without any divisions among them. For there
is no more irresistible witness to the truth of
the Gospel than such unity in charity. No
wonder that the first thing that Jesus does
when he moves to Capernaum is seek out
companions. In the unity that Simon, Andrew,
James, and John experience through their
friendship with Christ, they become certain
that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Thanks to our communion in Christ, “anguish
has taken wing, dispelled is darkness: for
there is no gloom where but now there was
distress.” To us enshrouded in the “land of
gloom,” Jesus Christ beckons, “Come after me.”
This Sunday’s gospel
opens with the
preaching of Jesus.
The time of prophecy
has ended with the
arrest of the Baptist.
He had to decrease
so the other could
increase. The gates
of the prison have
been closed upon
this great voice. Up
to this time Jesus
has been silent.
Henceforth he must
proclaim that the kingdom is here. // This
proclamation begins surprisingly at this
frontier crossroads of Galilee. Common
opinion held that nothing good come from
Galilee. (John 1:46). It was to this people,
then under subjection, that Isaiah had
announced the messianic light of the
Immanuel. It is again to them that Jesus
addresses himself. He is the one who
brings glad tidings, announcing peace,
bearing good news, announcing salvation,
and saying to Zion, “Your God is King.” (Isa
52:7). This dawn of the kingdom calls for a
change of heart. // From this moment on,
the Messiah had some faithful followers.
The memory of their fidelity to Jesus
remains. Here the Church is born.
ST. MATTHEW
THE EVANGELIST PARISH
MINERSVILLE, PA
www.StMatthewTheEvangelistParish.org
Rectory Office Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Phone: (570) 544-2211
Fax: (570) 54-2317
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 – Living and Deceased Parishioners
TUE – Joseph Grecky by Family
WED – Thomas Moran by Ronald and Mary Ellen Renninger
THU – John and Josephine Smiszek by Family
FRI – Irene DiLauro by M/M Alphonse Santarelli
SAT – 4:00 PM – Catherine Sincavage by Mahalchick Family
SUN – 7:00 AM – Living and Deceased Parishioners
9:00 AM – Tim Stine by Family
11:00 AM – Mildred Yupcavage by Bernie and Margie Walasavage
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REQUIESCAT IN PACE: May Jesus, our Loving Savior, welcome into His
eternal Realm THERESA M. STOCHI, a former member of the former St.
Barbara Parish, and a member of Our Parish Family, who died Tuesday,
January 21, and will be buried from our Parish on Wednesday, January 29.
May Mary, Mother of God, obtain comfort from Jesus, Her Son, for Theresa’s
Family and friends! LUX PERPETUA EIS!
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THE WEEKLY CALENDAR: O sing a new song to the Lord;/ sing to the Lord,
all the earth./ In his presence are majesty and splendor,/ strength and
honor at his holy place. (Cf. Ps 96 (95): 1, 6)
THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, January 26 – SACRAMENT OF
RECONCILIATION: 6:30AM and 10:45AM.
THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS(FPC):
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 MARY JO NABHOLZ
who will host the Family Prayer Chalice for Vocations this
week. Sign up in Church Vestibule or call 570-399-5056.
FAMILY PERSPECTIVE: When Jesus called his disciples, they came
“immediately.” Parents wish their children would respond as quickly,but they do
not.Children grow slowly into responsibility.It is a process like walking, not done
“immediately”, but in small steps. Parenting demands patient encouragement.
PRO-LIFE REFLECTION: It is written in Psalms: “They shed innocent
blood, the blood of their sons and their daughters…and the land was polluted
with blood…” The innocent blood of our preborn is polluting our land through
decriminalized abortion.
STEWARDSHIP: “He called them, and immediately they left their boat and
their father and followed Him.” Matthew 4:22. Just as He called the first
apostles, Jesus calls each of us to follow Him, too. We are not expected to
leave our businesses and our families behind, but we are expected to put our service to Jesus before worldly endeavors. LAST WEEK
YOU CONTRIBUTED: Sunday: $3,027; General Repair: $473; Expenses: $10,595.86. Thank you for your generosity!
DIOCESAN COLLECTION: CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES: “Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of
these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40). Today, we are reminded that Jesus identified himself with our
poorest brothers and sisters. The Catholic Relief Services Collection serves Jesus in the victims of human trafficking, in
those who suffer from unjust laws, and in those who need pastoral care and humanitarian assistance across the globe.
Through your support of today’s Collection, you help Jesus in disguise. Please be generous.. Use the Special
Envelope found in your boxes.
FRATERNAL CHARITY: ST. VINCENT DE PAUL FOOD PANTRY – Your donation of all TYPES OF COFFEE AND TEA will allow the
SVDP Society to feed the needy of our area. Volunteer to help our SVDP Society Outreach and God’s Bountiful Table. 570-544-2739.
VOTIVES: (1) SANCTUARY: IMO John and Josephine Smiszek by Family. (Available Dates: April 20, July 6, August 3, 10,17,
September 7, October 12, 19, November 16, 23, December 28) (2) ALTARS: BVM: For the Health of George Homa and Special
Intention by Wife and Family; IMO Lewis Lesnefsky by Andruchek Family; Special Intention by Helen Droskinis. DIVINE MERCY: IMO Fr.
Ignatius Szal (Birthday) by Dennis and Diane Frank; Special Intention . (3) OTHER: ST. JOSEPH: Special Intention. REREDOS NICHE:
IMO Fr. Joseph F. Reilly by Parents. Call 570-544-2211 to memorialize Votives.
ASSUMPTION BVM OPEN HOUSE EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION: 12:00 Noon to 2:00 PM at Assumption BVM School. Faculty
members, administration, available to answer questions. New registrations: bring child’s birth certificate, baptismal record, immunization
records. Register before April 1, receive a $15 discount on new student registration fee. Students transferring from other schools in grades
2 to 7 are eligible for $1,000 grant for the 2014-2015 school year and $500 for the 2015-2016 school year. Call 570-622-0106.
MONDAY, January 27 – THE HOLY SACRIFICE OF THE MASS: 5:00 PM, Our Lady’s Chapel of St Patrick Church. Veneration of a FirstClass Relic of Saint Pauline Visintainer to follow. Call 570-622-1802 for information.
TUESDAY, January 28 – ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, the Good
Shepherd Building. Contact our C.R.E., Rosalie Novack (570-544-2211).
WEDNESDAY, January 29 – DEVOTIONS TO ST. PEREGRINE: 8:00 AM Mass. Ask St. Peregrine to help cancer patients / caregivers.
THURSDAY, January 30 – “SOUNDS OF THE SPIRIT” CONTEMPORARY CHOIR REHEARSAL: Call 570-544-2355 for rehearsal times.
FRIDAY, January 31 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 7:45 AM.
SATURDAY, February 1 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 3:30 PM.
THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD, SUNDAY, February 2 – FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD: In accordance with Jewish
Law, Jesus was presented in the Temple forty days after His birth, and two doves were sacrificed. The Prophets Simeon and Anna
recognized the Christ-Child as the long-awaited Messiah. On this day, also called Candlemas, candles are blessed to acclaim Christ as
the light of the world. Candles for home use will be blessed within weekend Masses. These candles can be found in our Sanctuary and the
offering per box is $5.00.
SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 6:30 AM and 10:45 AM.
THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS (FPC): THE QUINN FAMILY will host the FPC this week. Call 570399-5056 or Sign-Up in the Church Vestibule. WE NEED VOLUNTEERS FOR MARCH AND APRIL! HELP US!
SECOND COLLECTION ENVELOPE: (1) UTILITIES: Your donation will help pay for light, water, sewer, heating tapes, and the
maintenance of all parish heating units, etc. (2) Please catch up with any missed envelopes. Thank you for your generosity!
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MINISTERS AT MASS FOR THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD
OFF. PROCESSION
LECTORS
EUCH. MINISTERS
ALTAR SERVERS
SAT 4:00 PM Mahalchick Family
Al Boris
Gloria Paltanavage
Anthony Forte
Alexandra Eades
SUN 7:00 AM Parishioners
John Andruchek
Eli Nabholz
Nicholas Quinn
9:00 AM Stine Family
Nicole Forney
Rosalie Novack
Olivia Osborne
Abby Schoffstall
11:00 AM Walasavage Family
Linda Butensky
Tom Mundy
Gabriel Kuehn
Bella Kuehn
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COMING EVENTS: Please be sure to mark your calendar!
FEBRUARY 3 – THE FEAST OF ST. BLAISE: In honor of St. Blaise, Bishop and Martyr, Patron Saint of those afflicted with ailments of the
throat, the blessing of throats will take place within today’s Masses!
FEBRUARY 9 – NATIVITY BVM HIGH SCHOOL SOPHY JEWELER/UGG BOOT/COACH PURSE BINGO: Doors open 11:00 AM;Bingo starts
1:00 PM. $25 for 15 regular games, 4 specials. Jackpot, homemade food, desserts, beverages. Call 570-294-0551 for information.
HALUPKI DINNER: 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, St. Nicholas Hall Primrose. Cost $9 per platter includes Halupki, Mashed Potatoes,
Filling, Green Beans, roll and butter, beverage. Eat-in or take-out. Advance tickets only by calling 570-544-4581.
FEBRUARY 10 – CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS: Eighth grade parishioners attending Catholic, public or private elementary or
middle school are invited to apply for a one-year $1000 scholarship to attend Nativity BVM High School, Diocese of Allentown. Scholarships
will be awarded on the basis of academic achievement; involvement in extracurricular activities; service to school, parish and community;
and pastor and principal recommendations. Application forms are available at the Rectory or through the parish religious education
program. Completed applications must be submitted to the Rectory or the Parish C.R.E. TODAY.
FEBRUARY 12 – GOD’S BOUNTIFUL TABLE: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Fr. Anthony Ricapito Annex.
FEBRUARY 19 – NATIVITY BVM HIGH SCHOOL TUITION ASSISTANCE PRESENTATION: 6:30 PM. Members of the Nativity community
will be available to answer your questions. No pre-registration is required. All are welcome! Call 570-622-8110 with questions.
MARCH 3 – ST. MATTHEW’S TRAVELERS’ PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW BUS TRIP: Cost $55. Bus leaves Quandel’s
Parking Lot 8:00 AM; Departs Philadelphia 5:00 PM. This year’s Flower Show, “ARTiculture”, inspired by the sculptures
and style of Alexander Calder, a member of Philadelphia’s historic family of artists, will feature a remarkable aerial dance
troupe who will perform above, on and within the multi-dimensional display. Call Julie (570-544-5231) or the Rectory.
APRIL 1 – 30 – SPRING FLING CALENDAR DRAWINGS: 30 Days of prizes, cash and gifts. One winner
per day. Winners eligible to win every day of the month. DONATIONS FROM PARISHIONERS AND
BUSINESSES ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED!Call Julie (570-544-5231) for information and to donate.
APRIL 17 – ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST PARISH 50/50 DRAWING: $2.00 each or three for $5.00. Call the
Rectory at 570-544-2211 for tickets. Benefits Parish Center renovation. Thanks for your support!
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2013 CHRISTMAS COLLECTION: We received $13,983 from 364 donors (37 less donors than last
year). This is a decrease of $389.75 from last year. Many people increased their Christmas
Offering as was asked. For this I am deeply grateful. The Christmas Collection is very
important in helping our parish meet its financial needs. To everyone who donated at Christmas, I
extend my heartfelt gratitude! It goes without saying, you are good people!
2013 CHURCH CONTRIBUTION STATEMENTS: Call the Rectory (570-544-2211) if you need one.
CHRISTMAS FLOWER MEMORIALS: We gratefully acknowledge your kindness and generosity which allowed us to decorate our church so
beautifully during the Christmas Holidays (Unless otherwise noted each donation was $10): IMO Joseph and Thelma Bonk by Carleen and
Fred Wenner; IMO Charles Stablum, Sr., Birch and Gary Witman, Helen, Mario and John Stablum, M/M Lewis Carroll by M/M Craig
Witman; IMO Victims of Sandy Hook Elementary School Shootings, Victims of Gun Violence in America, Our Beloved Baba, Victoria
Fetterolf, Our Dear Uncle, John Shelava, Deceased of Shelava and Fetterolf Families, Joseph Wank, Stanley Wank, Deceased of
Skavinsky and Wank Families by M/M Albert Wank and Family ($100); IMO Nevin and Thelma Starr by Dolores Starr and Son; IMO
Donald Starr, Sr. by Dolores Starr; IMO Edward and Sophia Burke by Dolores Starr and Son; IMO Deceased of Kulpcavage and Buglia
Families by Bob Buglia and Family; IMO Mother, Elizabeth Reed, Grandmother, Mary Walters by M/M Joseph Butcavage ($20); IMO Ryan
Wiscount, Pauline and Charles Butensky by Robert and Luana Butensky ($20); IMO Donald Butler, Sr., George and Cele Miller, Herman
Plefka, Barbara Crisanti, Michael and Loretta Melusky, Billy and Cookie Melusky by Don, Peggy ad Christopher Butler ($30); IMO John
Cazonie, Norma Olenick by Henry Cazonie; IMO Stephen Chelak by Wife, Katherine; IMO Catherine and Michael Gober and Sons by
Family ($20); IMO Kryscio and Chicora Families by S. Chicora; IMO Anna and Stiney Gober by Beth, Jason and Killian Clark ($20); IMO
Dante and Jean Cola by Daughter, Jeanine; IMO Stanley Costick, Tessie Costick by Stephen Costick; IMO Joseph and Adella Melenchick
by Ann Marie Coyle; IMO Ellen Mitchell by Bill Dallago; IMO John L. DiRenzo, Victor R. Raczka, Sr., Jeffrey DiRenzo by John, Michelle
and Marlena DiRenzo ($15); IMO Fritz and Jean Doran; Deceased of Doran and Calderone Families by Ellen Doran and Family; IMO
Donald Doyle, Yanosky Family, Bud and Jo Volkert by Flossie Doyle ($30); IMO Gerald Malusky, Helen and George Kalochie, Joseph and
Alberta Malusky, Dianne Gardner, Victor Droskinis and Eleanor Long, Rose Ostrowski, Betty Pukas by Helen and CoCo Droskinis, Angela
and Allison Malusky ($70); IMO Butcavage and Earlosky Families by Jane and Vince Earlosky; IMO Ronald (Red) Murphy by Cecilia
Elison; IMO Robert W. Reed, Shirley A. Reed, Joseph A. Fabiani by Vince and Darla Fabiani; Intentions of M/M Stanley Gober; IMO
Joseph Gottschall, Sr. M. Lucretia, John Brennan Family by Helen Gottschall; IMO William Jones, Frank Balcavage, Leo Gottschall, Anna
Sorokach by Stella Gottschall; IMO Stanley Graf, Jr., Stanley Graf, Sr., James and Phyllis McNamara by Barbara, Mary Beth, Evelyn
and Maureen; IMO John J. Sabadish, Frank Kralick by Mary Ann Harrison ($15); IMO Homa-Brito Families by M/M George Homa; IMO
Joseph and Margaret Hribick, Kevin Hribick, Mary Hallis, Louise Houser by M/M Robert Houser; IMO Lohin and Hudock Families by Anna
Hudock ($20); IMO Joseph Hudock Family by John F. Hudock ($20); IMO Elmer Huntzinger by Brian Huntzinger Family; IMO Dorothy
Plesnarski, Stan Plesnarski, Lillian and Nick Hutzel, Diane Cory by Beverly Hutzel; IMO Marie and Helen Stablum, Joe and Rose
Karmazin, Ryan Wiscount by The Karmazin Family; IMO Milan and Madeline Barber by Chris and Stacey Kelly; IMO Klotunowitch and
Trusky Families by Deborah Klotunowitch ($15); (T.B.C.)