St. Paul in Greece: 10 photos from a tour

Traditional jail site of Paul and Silas at Philippi

.“St. Paul in Greece; Pictures and Scripture ” is the title of a presentation given to the Serra Club of Akron by Dave Fetyko of Holy Family parish.

Fetyko has provided us with ten outstanding photos he uses in his presentations to various groups. It all grew out of a trip to Greece in the Footsteps of St. Paul last year. Spiritual leader for the tour was Fr.. Mitch Pacwa, host of EWTN Live on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. on the EWTN Catholic television network.

The tour took participants to Athens, Corinth, Philippi, Thessalonika and other places..

Paul arrived in Athens by sea and landed at the port of Piraeus, three miles south of Athens, from which he also could have seen the Acropolis rising in the distance. Paul brought the gospel to the public places of Athens.

In Athens, Paul was immediately distressed over how many idols were in the city. He began speaking in the synagogues and reasoning with the Jews and God-fearing Greeks.

One photo shows Mars Hill (the Areopagus) where St. Paul preached one of the most memorable sermons recorded in the Bible known as the famous hymn to love (often read at weddings) which begins:

“If I speak in the tongues of humans and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.”

Paul traveled from Athens to Corinth. At Corinth, Paul made his living by making tents. . He settled in and stayed for 18 months, working as a tentmaker and living with fellow tentmakers, Aquila and his wife Priscilla.

There are photos of the ruins at Corinth including one of . Fr. Pacwa and two other priests saying Mass.

In Philippi is the river spot where Lydia, a gentile female convert, a dealer in expensive purple cloth, was baptized. It may be that she was not baptized at this exact spot, but it was just a few hundred meters upstream of town, outside of the city walls. There was no Jewish synagogue in Philippi and it is likely that Jews and others interested in Judaism would meet at this spot.

The stained glass windows of Paul and Lydia shown here are in a new chapel at the site where she was baptized.

Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown into prison in Philippi. They were accused of teaching strange ideas about a man who was crucified and then resurrected. After they had given them a severe flogging, they threw them into prison and ordered the jailer to keep them securely. Following these instructions, he put them in the innermost cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened

Thessalonika served as a huge center of trade in Ancient Greece. There is a photo of St. Dimitrius Orthodox (Byzantine) Church in Thessalonika where Paul spent some time..

Click on the headline to see the other photos

A note from the Diocese on clustering

This notice on Vibrant Parish Life is posted on the Cleveland Diocese website:

Attention All Parishioners:
Parish Clustering -- Where we stand now

As we enter the final months of preparation for proposed cluster plans, the Cluster Planning and Coordination Teams across the diocese are working very carefully and diligently to discern their respective proposals in accordance with the following timeline for the plans to be in Bishop Lennon’s office:

• September 15, 2008: Suburban East, Suburban Southeast, Lake/Geauga Districts

• October 15, 2008: Suburban West, Suburban Southwest, Lorain Districts

• November 15, 2008: Cleveland Central East, Central West, Northwest, Southeast Districts

• December 15, 2008: Summit North, Summit South, Ashland/Wayne/Medina Districts

An essential step in developing these proposed cluster plans is consultation with the respective parishes: the Parish Pastoral Councils, Finance Councils, parish staffs and parishioners, and further refinement of these cluster plans based on what is said.

Once the plans are submitted to Bishop Lennon, an intensive diocesan review process will begin. An initial review of all proposed cluster plans will be done by the Vibrant Parish Life - Phase II Committee which includes parish representatives from each of the 13 diocesan districts as well as representatives of the major consultative groups and different areas of the diocesan administration. Bishop Lennon and his cabinet staff will then study all the proposed cluster plans and the Committee reviews of these plans. Bishop Lennon will also consult with the Presbyteral (Priests) Council in accordance with Canon Law regarding proposed cluster consolidation plans. Only after this extensive review will Bishop Lennon announce the final approved cluster plans in March of 2009.

Needless to say, no one on the diocesan staff would ever say anything in any way to the media about the work of Cluster Planning and Coordination Teams that has yet to be fully developed and then presented to the parish communities. After these initial parish presentations, the proposed cluster plans are subject to further revision by the Teams before being submitted to Bishop Lennon. The intensive diocesan review process will then study each plan with regard to a given cluster as well as with regard to the larger picture of adjacent cluster plans and the overall impact upon strengthening the mission, ministry and pastoral care of the Church. It is tremendously unfair to people at every level to generate needless speculation and rumor about cluster plans that will simply not be clear until March of 2009.

Visit the Vibrant Parish Life website.

Mass for Jeffrey Burell is Saturday

Jeffrey C. (Boo) Burell, 60 years, of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, passed away July 24, 2008.

Jeff was born in Akron and grew up in Firestone Park. He graduated from Garfield High School, Class of '65. His passion in life was GOLF! and he began a long career as a caddie beginning in high school. With the start of the PGA, he caddied for rookie golfer Roger Maltbi (a one time winner) and joined the professional tour in 1973. Jeff went on to caddie for Ben Crenshaw, Curtis Strange, two-time winner Billie Andre, Tom Watson, two-time winner Jerry Pate and Lani Wadkins. In 2004, Jeff joined the Senior Tour and most recently caddied for Andy North -- a three-time winner!

Although Golf was both his vocation and avocation, Jeff was always family oriented. His zest for life and his abilty to communicate with his warm smile, made everyone he met a Friend.

Preceded in death by his father, Jack; sister, Jean Craig; brothers, Jim and Dan; Jeff lives on in the memories of his Mother, Kathleen; sister, Mary (Tom) Dolis; brothers, Tim of Lawton, Oklahoma, Pat (Annette) of Cameron Park, California, David (Helen) of Cary, North Carolina, Mike of Simi Valley, California; many nieces, nephews, and special friends, Kevin, Kirk, Gary, Jackie and Lee.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. Saturday, August 2, 2008 at St. Paul's Catholic Church (433 Mission Drive Akron, OH 44301), where friends may call from 10 a.m. until service time. A Memorial Luncheon will follow the Mass. Private Inurnment at Holy Cross Cemetery. The Family suggests memorial donations be made to either St. Paul's or Interval Brotherhood Homes (3445 South Main St., Akron, OH 44319).
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Thursday, July 31, 2008, page B3, col. 5]

What others are doing: Direct deposit

The following is reprinted from the July Stewardship newsletter, "Stewardship Here and Now" by Mary Pat Frey, director of the Cleveland Dicoese Vocation Office:

Bill Mattingly: Man With a Mission

"The more I participated, the more I saw the needs, and the more I wanted to do." Thus said Bill Mattingly, member of Our Lady of Victory in Tallmadge for 44 years. Participated in what? You name it: past president of Rotary, charter member of K of C Council #5613, active in the local Red Cross, Trustee of CYO and Community Services, Trustee of Catholic Social Services of Summit County - and much more.

His long and varied experience in helping people in many different ways has shown him that many of these social services can help more people more effectively if they had the resources (like money) to do it. One of his current "missions" is to get more people to support their parish by signing up for "direct deposit." Direct deposit is the way many people make sure that their important monetary responsibilities (e.g. gas and electric bills) are always taken care of. Every month these utilities automatically deduct the needed amount from your checking account so you don't have to worry about having these important utilities shut off. He said, "My wife and I sit down every year and figure out how much we can contribute to our church, figure out the monthly deposit for the church, and it's taken care of. We (and the church) don't have to worry about long vacations or unexpected trips interrupting our support." He pointed out that financial complications that might arise through parish clustering would be obviated by direct deposit. He said, "I think more people should consider this option. Maybe parish finance committees should promote this process."

Beyond the needs of the parish, his concern is for the needs of anyone in the greater community. "It is a natural process for human beings to have concerns for others," he said. As we talked further he made it clear that this "concern" becomes more vibrant as one witnesses the needs of others. He has discovered what many before him have discovered: the more you open your eyes to the needs of others, the more you give of yourself, the more you enrich the community, and the more you enrich yourself.

Please sign up for Eucharistic Adoration

Signup sheets for August, September and October are now in the narthex for the Eucharistic Adoration which is continuing on Tuesdays at St. Paul.

If just two people sign up for each half-hour segment, it will take only 50 people to be certain someone is visiting the Blessed Sacrament at all times the Church is open on Tuesdays from 7:30 to 8 p.m. That is not very many considering that the last census in October, 2007 indicated that more than 800 attend Mass each weekend at St. Paul.

Hopefully there will be no blank space on the signup sheet.

There are three parishes in Summit County which have perpetual adoration with two or more persons signed up to visit for one hour. St. Augustine Church, for instance, noted in a church bulletin that 385 holy hours were kept before the Blessed Sacrament on a recent week.

Pope Benedict XVI stresses the importance of Eucharistic Adoration:

"In a world where there is so much noise, so much bewilderment, there is a need for silent adoration of Jesus concealed in the Host. Be assiduous in the prayer of adoration and teach it to the faithful. It is a source of comfort and light, particularly to those who are suffering."

Pope Benedict's XVI's prayer intentions for August

Pope Benedict XVI's prayer intentions for August:

General:
That the human family may learn to respect God’s plan for the world and become ever more aware that Creation is God’s great gift.
Mission:
That the answer of the entire people of God to the common calling to holiness and mission may be promoted and fostered by means of careful discernment of charisms and constant commitment to spiritual and cultural formation

August events posted on calendar

St. Paul events for August are now posted on the calendar on the parish website. Just click on the calendar link at left to go straight to the calendar or click on the website link at left and then click on the calendar button on the website. You can view the calendar by the month--clicking on August.

If you click on a calendar item, a window will pop up with information about the event that you can then print out.

Please check the calendar for dates and events of your organization. Send any additions or corrections to hliggett@sbcglobal.net

Thanks for keeping us informed.

Altar servers for August

Saturday, August 2
4:30 Matt Kannel and Jeremy Swords

Sunday, August 3
9:00 Marco Colant and Noelle Colant
11:00 Adam Gray and Scott Johnson

Saturday, August 9
4:30 Alyse Bachmann and Michael Sartoski

Sunday, August 10
9::00 Jacqueline Wammes and Aaron Abernathy
11:00 Michael Altomare and Zachary Durbin

Saturday, August 16
4:30 Trevor Ellis and Matt Kannel

Sunday, August 17
9:00 Ryan Testa and Josh Garey
11:00 Adam Gray and Scott Johnson

Saturday, August 23
4:30 Jeremy Swords and Michael Sartoski

Sunday, August 24
9:00 Erin Liggett and Isabelle Miller
11:00 Zachary Durbin and Sierra Robinson

Saturday, August 30
4:30 Alyse Bachmann and Trevor Ellis

Sunday, August 31
9:00 Marco Colant and Noelle Colant
11:00 Billy Gabelman and Jacqueline Wammes

If you are unable to serve at your scheduled Mass, please arrange for a substitute.

News from St. Paul Booster Club

News from the meeting Sunday of St. Paul Booster Club:

Gary Chrostowski is organizing a Euchre Tournament to be held in October. Details are still pending. All those willing to help may contact Gary at 330-896-5768.

Fall Sports - Tackle football, flag football, soccer, cross country and chess are beginning in August. Participants and coaches are still needed. Contact Jill Joyner 330-785-0793 or John Garey 330-724-2643.

Tackle football conditioning may begin after July 25 and due to new software at CYO, a request for football rosters by July 31 has been made. Rosters may have additions or subtractions after the 31st deadline.

Fr. Thomas will be sending out letters to all that inquire about gym rental/use and the fees and behavior expected while using the gymnasium.

Softball and baseball are competing right now and tournaments will begin immediately following the end of the regular season.

Gym Clean Up Day is Saturday, August 16th, beginning bright and early that morning. More details to follow.

The next meeting is Sunday, August 31 @ 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall.

Eucharistic Adoration on Tuesday

The Church is open each Tuesday
from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p. m.
for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

Please stop by if only for a few minutes.

Fr. Durkee says Masses at St. Paul

The Rev. Fr. David R. Durkee, pastor of Queen of Heaven, said both Sunday Masses at St. Paul while our pastor, the Rev. Fr. Ralph W. Thomas, said Masses at Queen of Heaven.

In a takeoff on the day's Gospel "The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field," Fr. Durkee hid a $50 gas card in a Glory and Praise Hymnal and asked parishioners to search for it. After a few moments, the card was found by Mrs. Mary Factor. The homily, of course, was about how we should build up treasures in heaven.

At conclusion of Mass, Fr. Durkee urged parishioners to take advantage of the Tuesday Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Paul and invited St. Paul members to visit the new perpetual Adoration Chapel at Queen of Heaven and gave out the code for opening the door after hours.

The pulpit exchange is part of the Vibrant Parish Life sharing endeavors of the Summit South 6 cluster..

Bernard and Mary Paulus mark anniversary

Bernard and Mary Alice (Reischman) Paulus 65th wedding anniversary
Bernie and Mary were married at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Akron, on July 28, 1943. They are blessed with six children, 15 grandchildren, and five greatgrandchildren. Bernie was a co-founder of Skillwood Products and retired after 40 years of service. Mary is a former devoted homemaker who enjoyed cooking, sewing, and her flowers. Bernie and Mary truly enjoyed the many years they traveled together. Their 65th wedding anniversary will be celebrated with a Mass at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, in Green.
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Sunday, July 27, 2008, page E6]

Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers for August

Lectors for August

Saturday 4:30: Patty Rinella
Sunday 9:00: Terry Nesline
Sunday 11:00: Youth lector

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for August

Saturday 4:30 p.m.
Carol Coughlin
Debbie Dodson :
Kelly Dodson
Kathy Hausch
Joanne Heffernan
Heather Lott
Denis Randall
Nancy Randall

Sunday 9 a,m,
Gerard Colant
Jo Colant
Joe Denholm
Sandi Denholm
Joanne Marcius
Suzanne Nixon
Kelly Reed
Nellie Kremer

Sunday 11 a,.m.
Dorothy Christner
Diane Clute
Kathleen Deger
Betty Mastrojohn
John Mastrojohn
Aaron Ruegg
Jason Ruegg
Debbie Starosto

It's Happening at St. Paul

SUNDAY, July 27
Booster Club at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall.

MONDAY, July 28
Men’s Fellowship will meet at 7 p.m. in Room 111 for prayer and Bible Study.
The Bible study passage will be John 11:45-57 The Plot Against Jesus.

TUESDAY, July 29
Adoration of the Blessesd Sacrament. Church is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Senior Prayer Hour at 1 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration.

WEDNESDAY, July 30
Bible Study at 9:15 a.m. in Room 111
Bible Study at 7 p.m. in the rectory

Ushers of St. Paul will be greeting parishioners and visitors during July.

Ice cream social set for Sunday, August 24

Come one! Come all! Parishioners, neighbors, family and friends; everyone is invited to the St. Paul Ice Cream Social on Sunday, August 24, from 1: to 3 p.m. on the rectory grounds. Join us for ice cream, cupcakes and friendship! Music will be provided by our own Jim Vondemkamp. Help is needed to bake cupcakes, to set up, take down, make signs and serve. Please call Robin Daley at 330-724-8363 or Marilyn Spiros at 330-773-2470.

St. Paul Booster Club meets Sunday

The St. Paul Booster Club will meet Sunday at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall. The 300 Club will draw numbers for the $100 prizes. Anyone interested in Fall sports—boys and girls soccer, co -ed flag football, tackle football, cross country and chess should contact Jill Joyner at 330-785-0793 or John Garey 330-724-2643 or attend Sunday’s meeting. Coaches and players are beind accepted

Noticed in this weekend's bulletin

2009 MASS INTENTIONS BOOK OPENS FRIDAY
The Mass Intentions Book for 2009 will open Friday, August 1. As in the past, each family may schedule three Mass intentions. Of the three, one may be for a weekend and two for any weekday. New for 2009: Additional Masses may be scheduled for 7 a. m. Monday through Thursday.

ADULT CONFIRMATION SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 13
If you are an adult who has already been baptized and received your First Holy Communion, but have not yet been confirmed, Nativity of the Lord Jesus will have the Sacrament of Confirmation celebrated with Bishop Lennon on Saturday, September 13 at the 4:30 Mass. Contact Deacon Dennis Smith at Nativity at 330-699-5086 or by email at nativitydeacon@neohio.twcbc.com

HELP FOR DIVORCING COUPLES
There is a good, confidential program in the area sponsored by the Diocese of Cleveland that is intended to help couples who are in the process of divorce or have already been separated. The program is equipped to assist individuals and couples with the many emotional and spiritual needs involved in these circumstances. If you would like more information about the program, please call the rectory at 330-724-1263.

Bulletin puts out the welcome mat

The church bulletin has a new look on the cover. A welcome mat is spread across the bottom of the front and information has been added.

The bulletin now has an improved look that provides more room for information The photo of the old Last Supper mural which was cut into the photo of the new church was removed.

Deacon Mr. Francis Lonteen is now listed as "pastoral associate" which better describes his role and Secretary and Bulletin editor Patty Hogue was added.. The Mass schedule, devotions and sacrament information is in the second column

Here's the WELCOME message:

We warmly welcome all visitors and new parishioners. Please contact our parish office to register. As a member of St. Paul Parish, you are joining us in supporting God's work through sharing of your time, talents and treasure. Your commitment of support is necessary to maintain the offering of our programs and pastoral care to you and the families of St. Paul and our community.

Datebook: What's Happening Elsewhere

FIRST FRIDAY CLUB TO HEAR SR. ANN WILLITS AUGUST 1
The speaker for its August 1 noon luncheon of the First Friday Club at the Martin Center, will be Sr. Ann Willits, OP, Sinsinawa Dominican Congregation, author, poet and storyteller. Her topic will be “Almost Home: The Holiness of Everyday Humor.” Reservations may be made by calling 330-535- 7668 or send a check for $14 to First Friday Club of Greater Akron, 795 Russell Ave., Akron, Oh 44307.

FATHER MATUSZ TO SPEAK AT ST. MARTHA AUGUST 5
Father Mike Matusz, pastor of St. Martha Church, 300 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron, will speak on the topic, “How Can I Remain Catholic When I Disagree with Church Teaching?” at the next gathering, Tuesday, August 5, at , 7 p.m. at St. Martha Church. Following the presentation, there will be small discussion groups on a variety of subjects, including one with Fr. Mike to continue the conversation. A representative from the Diocesan Tribunal is available to offer assistance with specific
annulment and remarriage questions. Everyone is welcome. These monthly gatherings are intended for those who have questions or concerns about the Catholic faith or for anyone who simply wants to grow in faith and be able to discuss Catholicism with others in a knowledgeable way. There is no cost and reservations are not required. For more info, call Pat Flaherty at 330-773-7621 or email pflaherty@dioceseofcleveland.org.

HOLINESS IN THE 21ST CENTURY IS TOPIC AUGUST 11
Holiness in the 21st Century: Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary will be the topic of a presentation by Donna Orsuto, S.T.D. at St. Hilary Parish, 2750 W.Market St., Fairlawn on Monday, August 11 at 7:30 p.m. Dr. Orsuto is the founder and director of the Lay Centre in Rome, Italy and a professor at the Institute of Spirituality, Gregorian University, Rome. Copies of her latest book, Holiness: New Century Theology will be available for purchase..

Blog just hit the 1,000 mark

The Saint Paul TODAY blog just hit the 1,000 mark. The article below about the retirement of the Rev. Fr. James R. Schleicher was 1,000th article posted since this web log was started.

There were a few articles posted before the opening of the blog was announced on September 23, 2007 in the church bulletin. During the Summer months we are averaging only about 30 visitors a day, but when school is in session the number can double. The counter which lists the number of viewers shows we have had more than 9,000 viewers.

The value of the blog in providing good news daily about the parish depends on viewers who send us information about what their ministry or organization is doing.

Fr. Schleicher, pastor 34 years, retires

The Rev. Fr. James R. Schleicher will say his last Mass as pastor of St. Francis de Sales Church at 11 a.m. Sunday, retiring after 34 years.

In a way, he will only be trading places. The Rev. Fr. G. David Bline, who currently serves as parochial vicar at the parish, will become administrator of the parish on Aug. 2 and Fr. Schleicher will continue to live there and serve the parish,.

The parish has planned a reception for Fr. Schleicher at the school after his Thanksgiving Mass.

''It might seem kind of funny getting up there and saying farewell and still being here,'' Schleicher told Beacon Journal religion writer Colette M. Jenkins for the main story on the religion page of the newspaper. ''It's unusual for a priest to retire and continue to reside at the parish he's retiring from, but the people here are very loving. They're my family. I don't think it will be a problem. The associate here is going to be the new pastor. We work well together, and I don't think I'll have any problem stepping out of his way.''

Schleicher said Cleveland Diocese Bishop Richard G. Lennon honored his request to live at the rectory because of his medical needs. Fr. Schleicher said his health is the reason for his retirement. He began three-times-a-week dialysis more than two years ago.

''We're delighted that he will continue to be with us at the parish because this is his home and we love him dearly,'' said Marge Scott, second grade teacher and sacristan of the 1, 500-household parish.

Fr. Schleicher, who will celebrate his 79th birthday on November 10, was ordained December 18, 1954. His first assignment was as an assistant (parochial vicar) at Akron St. Mary where he served from January 7, 1955 to June 21, 1960. He served as assistant at St. Bartholomew in Middleburg Heights from June 21, 1960 to June 10, 1965, at St. Sebastian from June 10, 1965 to June 29, 1971 and has been pastor at St. Francis since June 23, 1974.

Fr. Schleicher and grew up in Chicago as a student in a seminary. When he was a sophomore in high school, his family moved to Brooklyn, N.Y., and he continued seminary there. After his senior year in high school, his family moved to Cleveland and he attended minor seminary in Detroit and major seminary at St. Mary's in Wickcliffe.

Fr. Bline, who is 45, was ordained May 30, 1998. He served as parochial vicar at St. Clare in Lyndhurst from June 16, 1998 to June 10, 2003. He was parochial vicar at St. Barnabas in Northfield from June 10, 2003 until June 5, 2007 when he was assigned to St. Francis.

Click on the headline to read the complete story by Colette M. Jenkins on page A8 of the Saturday Beacon Journal.

Mass Intentions July 26 to August 3

SATURDAY, July 26 Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary
4:30 Lino Pianalto +

SUNDAY, July 27 Seventeenth Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 June Deckard +
11:00 Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul

MONDAY, July 28 Weekday
7:00 Peace in the world
8:30 John Helon +

TUESDAY, July 29 Martha
7:00 For the ill and homebound
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, July 30 Peter Chrysologus, bishop, doctor
7:00 For all Police Officers and Firefighters
8:30 Domenico DiSalvo +

THURSDAY, July 31 Ignatius of Loyola, priest
7:00 Josephine Dettorre +
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDAY, August 1 Alphonsus Liguori, bishop, doctor
7:00 Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30 Albert Marziale +

SATURDAY, August 2 Eusebius of Vercelli,bishop
Peter Julian Eymard, priest
4:30 Vincent Delagrange +

SUNDAY, August 3 Eighteenth Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Mary Heisser +
11:00 Steve Remis + (anniv.)

Second Reading for Mass: Paul to Romans

Portions of St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans are used during the Second Reading at Sunday Mass during July and August. This is the second reading of St. Paul's Letter to the Romans to be read at Masses this weekend:

Romans 8:28-30
Brothers and sisters:
We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son,so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.

And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified.

Blessed Relic of Saint Paul in Sanctuary

The Rev. Fr. Ralph Thomas, our pastor, writes about the small statuette of St. Paul which has been placed near the Baptismal font for the Pauline year:


The Blessed Relic of Saint Paul, our parish patron, has been placed in the Sanctuary of our Church, to remind us of the life of this great apostle and saint who received a most direct and engaging call to proclaim Jesus, the Risen Savior. His love for Christ and those who came to know and love the Lord, was deep and strong and without question. St. Paul is one of the great pillars of our Church.

St. Paul Apostle, proclaimer and teacher of the truth to the nations. The relic was given to St. Paul Parishioners in gratitude from Rev. Angelo J. Trivisonno and members of St. Monica Society of St. Anthony Church, Akron, Ohio.

An ivory carving of St. Paul supports the circular enclosure for this relic (most probably a small piece of cloth or material touched to his tomb or some object believed to have been associated with the saint).

These words are inscribed in Latin in the circular rim surrounding the glass "Saint Paul, proclaimer and teacher of truth to the nations."

As we prayerfully reflect on his writings and letters to the first Christians, we are inspired by the dedication and generosity of this great Saint and are drawn into a deep understanding and love of God and His mystery as revealed by Jesus who is the Christ.

Tim Griffith rites Monday at Holy Family

Timothy R. Griffith

Tim Griffith, 60, passed away Monday, July 21, 2008 in Mesa, Arizona.

Tim was born and raised in Akron, Ohio and attended St. Paul Elementary and Archbishop Hoban High School. He graduated from St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas where he married Penny Garland, the mother of his three children: T.K., Shaun and Kevin. He later received a Masters Degree in Special Education from the University of Tennessee. Tim worked as a special education administrator for the Kent City School district. He retired from Kent and married Patti Stemple from Akron, and moved to Battle Creek, Michigan and then Gold Canyon, Arizona in 2003, where he spent many happy years with Patti, her mother Ruth and family in the foothills of the Superstition Mountains

Tim raised three boys in Stow, Ohio and volunteered as athletic director at Holy Family for ten years. He never met a stranger and lived his life believing in random acts of kindness. He loved sports, listening to the closing minutes of a Browns or Indians game on the radio or playing catch with the boys in the backyard, fishing excursions to Granny's Castle at Lake Milton or going to Hoban football games on Friday night. He was a great Dad-- from folding newspapers on Sunday mornings and driving the boys on the paper route to encouraging us to go for our dreams. Tim coached many of his sons' youth teams, often with help from lifelong friend Tom Goodall with whom he shared a love of people and good humor.

Tim received the Distinguished Alumni award from Hoban High School for his efforts in starting and developing the Hoban Alumni Association and golf outing. He emceed several Hoban Hall of Fame banquets and also was inducted in the CYO Hall of Honor.

Aside from his family, his greatest accomplishment was his ability to overcome an alcohol addiction and to stand by that life change for over twenty-five years. This firm willpower and commitment set an example for his family and all of us who battle obstacles in any form.

We'll miss his long stories, his curiosity, his phone calls, his sarcasm and humor, his knowledge and appreciation of the Arizona geology and terrain, and his love.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert M. and Marie T. (Ginn) Griffith. He leaves behind his wife, Patricia of Gold Canyon, Arizona; his three sons, T.K. (Amy), Shaun (Kippi) and Kevin; grandchildren, Allie, Austin, Abby, Andrew, Audrey and Jack; brothers, Robert and Dennis (Anne); sisters, Sue (Bill) Koch, Beth (Dana) Ball, Lisa (Pat) Fahey; his mother-in-law, Ruth Stemple; and sisters-in-law, Linda (David) Doll and Barb Stemple, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins and many close friends in the greater Akron, Battle Creek, and Gold Canyon areas.

Calling hours will be Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m. Monday at Holy Family Catholic Church in Stow with prayers at the funeral home at 9:15 a.m. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Tim's memory to Archbishop Hoban High School Scholarship Fund, 1 Holy Cross Blvd., Akron OH 44306 or to CYO, 812 Biruta St., Akron OH 44307. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.NewcomerFamily.com

(NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 330-784-3334.)
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH,Thursday, July 24, 2008, page B4, col. 4]

Pope's meeting with Iraqi leader confirmed

Castel Gandolfo, Jul. 23, 2008 - Iraq's Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki will meet with Pope Benedict XVI on July 25, the Vatican has confirmed.

The Iraqi government had announced Maliki's plans to meet with the Pope late last week. The Iraqi leader is on a tour of European capitals.

The meeting is an exception to the general policy that Pope Benedict does not meet with political leaders during his stay at Castel Gandolfo.

The meeting with Maliki will take place at the Pope's summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, where he is relaxing this week after his trip to Australia. The Holy Father will travel to Bressanone, Italy on July 28 to begin a 2-week vacation in the Alpine town.
[Source: Catholic World News]

Papal Audience Tickets Available by Fax

VATICAN CITY, JULY 23, 2008 - Visitors to the Vatican can now make reservations for papal audiences by fax.

A service provided by the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household enables pilgrims to make reservations weeks or days before their trip to Rome for activities such as Wednesday audiences or Masses celebrated by the Pontiff at St. Peter's. The tickets are free.

By downloading and faxing a document available on the Web page, pilgrims can make the reservations. The tickets can be retrieved at the ticket office located just inside the Bronze Door (by the right colonnade of St. Peter’s Square).
[Source: Zenit.org, world Catholic news organization]

Pauline Year reading for young and old

The celebration of the Pauline Year, the jubilee of the 2000th year of the birth of St. Paul, prompts new interest in books about the Apostle who is the patron saint of our parish. You can go online or visit Grismer's religious goods shop downtown (272 S. High St.) to find titles for youngsters and adults.

A nice picture book for young people is this "Saint Paul the Apostle" by Fr. Lawrence G. Lovasik of Divine Word Missionary who has written nearly 100 similar books on the saints, sacraments and prayers. The St,. Paul book and many other titles are available at Grismer's at $1.99. The one on St. Paul is 32 pages with illustrations and words on various stages in St. Paul's Life.

A nice book for adults is "St Paul: A Bible Study Guide for Catholics" published by Our Sunday visitor and written by Fr. Mitch Pacwa who appears regularly on EWTN. It also is available from Grismer's ($8.95) or from Our Sunday Visitor or other online sources.

The Pauline bookstore on line, operated by the Daughters of St. Paul, offers many selections including Paul— Least of the Apostles and Letters of Saint Paul for adults and Saint Paul, The Thirteenth Apostle, the Adventures of Saint Paul and a Saint Paul coloring book for youngsters. The bookstore is at http://www.pauline.org/

The booklet being used for the St. Paul Novena at our parish on the first Wednesday of each month is published by the Daughters of St. Paul.

Also scheduled throughout the jubilee year which ends June 29, 2009. will be presentations and discussions on the Letters and writings of St. Paul on the second Wednesday of each month also at 7 p.m. in the church.

Madrid to host next World Youth Day

Sydney, Jul. 21, 2008 - The 24th international celebration of World Youth Day will be held in August 2011 in Madrid, Spain.

Pope Benedict XVI announced the site of the next World Youth Day after celebrating the closing Mass of the 23rd World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia, on July 20.

The announcement confirmed widespread reports that Madrid would be chosen. Cardinal Antonio María Rouco Varela of Madrid had lobbied energetically for the opportunity to host the celebration, and the Spanish hierarchy had expressed the hope that the international gathering might energize Spanish Catholics in their struggle against secularization and their fight to preserve the traditional Christian principles that have been challenged by a leftist government.

World Youth Day celebrations were centered in Spain on one previous occasion: in 1989 the international event was held in Santiago de Compostela. The most recent celebrations have been in Rome in 2000, Toronto in 2002, Cologne in 2005, and Sydney this year.

Pope Benedict confirmed the selection of Madrid as the next site after leading the Angelus prayer in Sunday, the final day of the Sydney celebration. In his meditation on the Angelus, the Pope told the young pilgrims that the Annunciation "is perhaps the pivotal moment in the history of God's relationship with His people." In that moment, he said, as the Virgin Mary "stood before the Lord, she represented the whole of humanity." When he asked Mary to accept her role as the Mother of God, in effect, the Pope said, "it was as if God made a marriage proposal to the human race, and in our name Mary said Yes."

"In fairy tales, the story ends there, and all 'live happily ever after,'" the Pope observed. "In real life it is not so simple." He exhorted the young WYD pilgrims to imitate Mary's fidelity to God's will throughout their lives. Then, naming Madrid as the site of the next gathering, the Pope concluded: "Until then, let us continue to pray for one another, and let us joyfully bear witness to Christ before the world."
[Source: Catholic World News]

Getting things back to normal for School

Ceiling tile damaged from rain pouring in through roof

The St. Paul School maintenance staff and workmen from Paul Davis Restoration were busy getting things back to normal for opening of the school

The school maintenance staff was busy helping music director Tim Longfellow move back into the music room which was damaged when rain poured in from the roof the weekend of July 12-13. Workers had not completed roofing on the school and a covering tarp came loose and allowed rain to pour in, causing damage to the music room and the room above it.

Workers from Paul Davis Restoration also began work today to lay 8.000 square feet of flooring tile in areas damaged by a water line break March 26. It will take about two weeks to complete the flooring job, workmen said.

The new water damage, caused by pouring rain, was discovered by Peggy Muncey of the maintenance staff. Music CDs were drenched but they were wiped off and will probably be OK, Longfellow said. However, some of the printed information listing the music scores will have to be replaced. Some new ceiling tile was put into place and carpeting installed. Most of the furnishings in the room were moved out to clean up the water damage and the maintenance crew was helping Longfellow move back in today.

The heaviest damage was to the room above the music room. Damage was covered by insurance.

Top photo was taken by Dave Nesline of the maintenance staff. Click on the headline to see other photos.

Mass is Thursday for Dennis J. Reymann

Dennis J. Reymann passed away on July 8, 2008 in Palm Beach, Florida.

He was born in 1948 in Akron and graduated from St. Paul's grade school and Garfield High School. He served his country with honor in the U.S. Marines in Vietnam. He moved to West Palm Beach, Florida and retired from the Postal Service in 2000. He was an outstanding softball player and manager, guiding his W*A*S*H team to many league championships in the Akron area. Dennis was also an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting, fishing and playing golf.

He will be greatly missed by his sisters, Phyllis Bruno and Jean Reymann; brothers, Jerome (Juanita), Richard (Mary Ellen), David (Jean), Albert (Christine); Martin (Maureen); and sister-in-law, Pam; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Martin; mother, Ann; brothers, Joseph and John; he will also be dearly missed by Studley, his beloved cat.

Donations can be made to the Vietnam Veterans Assoc in Dennis's name. A memorial Mass will be held at St. Paul's Catholic Church on July 24, 2008 at 7 P.M. Burial will be at a later date. Calling hours are one hour before the Mass.
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH,Sunday, July 20, 2008. page B7, col. 3]

It's Happening at St. Paul

SUNDAY, July 20
Sacrament of Anointing after the 9 a.m. Mass. Please sit in every other pew in the middle section.

TUESDAY, July 22
Adoration of the Blessesd Sacrament. Church is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Senior Prayer Hour at 1 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration.

WEDNESDAY, July 23
Bible Study at 9:15 a.m. in Room 111
Bible Study at 7 p.m. in the rectory
Market Day Pickup at 6:30 p.m. in Boeke Hall.

SUNDAY, July 27
Booster Club at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall.
50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration Liturgy at 2:30 p.m. with Most Rev. Richard
Lennon at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.

Ushers of St. Paul will be greeting parishioners and visitors during July.

Noticed in this weekend's bulletin

ST. PAUL PAPER RECYCLING SCORECARD
The paper recycling efforts at St. Paul are paying off in many important ways. So far this 14.198 tons of paper has been recycled to save 95 cubic yards of landfill space. This has saved 58,240 KWH of energy. In addition. $71 has been earned for the parish and school. If you are participating in St. Paul’s recycling program, “Thanks and keep up the good work!” All parishioners, families and friends are invited to participate in the recycling program. The paper recycle bin is in the parking lot next to John Jenkins Gymnasium. There also is a big there for recyclcing aluminum cans.

PENNY BINGO DISCONTINUED
Because of gas prices and conflicts of interest, St. Paul’s Penny Bingo has been permanently discontinued. Thanks to Twila Miller for all her years of dedicated volunteer service for those who played Penny Bingo.

VATICAN SPLENDORS TOUR AAA SPONSORED
AAA Tour Operations has put together a bus trip to visit the Vatican Splendors
Exhibit as well as other interesting locations in Cleveland, on Friday, August 1. The bus will depart from the AAA downtown location at 8:30 a.m. and return to the same location at 7 p.m. Tour cost is $79 per person due at the time of booking. For more information, contact Eric Wertz at 330-762-0631.

FAIR TRADE COFFEE & TEA PRODUCTS
Anyone interested in purchasing Fair Trade Coffee and Tea products may place the order in the drop box in the narthex. A list with product descriptions will also be
available. Orders may be picked up during the Market Day pickup time. If you need to pick up your order at a time other than Market Day, or if you have any questions,
please contact Ruth Browne at 330-724-7115.

Datebook: What's Happening Elsewhere

ST. MARTHA PARISH ETHNIC FESTIVAL JULY 16
The sixth annual St. Martha Parish Ethnic Festival will be Saturday, July 26, fromnoon to 9 p.m. at St. Martha Parish, 300 E. Tallmadge Ave.. A variety of food including Italian, Polish, German, American, Middle Eastern and a ‘Lighter Side’ Café. There will be
Kids Activities with games and prizes, face painting and crafts. Entertainment line-up includes bands, dancers and much more. Free parking at North High School with a shuttle bus to St. Martha’s.

THE FEST 2008 AT WICKLIFFE ON AUGUST 3
The Catholic Family Festival , rHE FEST, is Sunday, August 3rd from noon to 10: p.m. at the Center for Pastoral Leadership, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe. Enjoy live music, delicious food and activities for all ages.The day will culminate with a Mass and fireworks. New this year: A greater raffle with 23 car and cash prizes and multiple chances to win. The day also includes the Sacrament of Reconciliation along with fun activities for kids. For information or to purchase a raffle ticket, call 440-943 -7662 or log on to www.theFEST.us.
Directions from the SouthWest:
Take 77 North to I-90 East
Take I-90 East to the Euclid Avenue Exit
Turn left onto Euclid Avenue The Center for Pastoral Leadership will be on right after you pass Joe's Crab Shack.

SALAD SMORGASBORD CARD PARTY AT DOYLESTOWN AUGUST 13
Sts. Peter and Paul Altar Society in Doylestown is sponsoring the 48th Annual Salad Smorgasbord Card Party on Wednesday, August 13. This year’s theme is
“Welcome to Oz.” Doors will open at 9 a.m. with lunch served at noon. The hall is air-conditioned. There will be 50/50, raffle and door prizes. Admission is $6. Bring your own cards. Sts. Peter and Paul is at 161 Clinton Street in Doylestown.,
Doylestown.

Mass Intentions for July 19-27

SATURDAY, July 19 Weekday
4:30 Stella Trissel +

SUNDAY, July 20 Sixteenth Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Irene Lichty +
11:00 Carol Minns +

MONDAY, July 21 Lawrence of Brindisi, priest, doctor
7:00 For all who serve our country
8:30 Armbruster & Glassner Families

TUESDAY, July 22 Mary Magdalene
7:00 Joanne DiDonato Staats + (anniv.)
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, July 23 Bridget of Sweden, religious
7:00 For peace in the world
8:30 Ed Kocsis +

THURSDAY, July 24 Sharbel Mahkluf, priest
7:00 For the ill and homebound
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDAY, July 25 James, apostle
7:00 Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30 Stella Roberts +

SATURDAY, July 26 Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary
4:30 Lino Pianalto +

SUNDAY, July 27 Seventeenth Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 June Deckard +
11:00 Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul

Growing in the Faith

CONFIRMATION MASS WITH BISHOP LENNON
Nativity of the Lord Jesus wioll have the Sacrament of Confirmation celebrated with Bishop Richard G. Lennon at the 4:30 p.m. Mass on Saturday, September 13.. If you are an adult who has already been baptized and received your First Holy Communion, but have not yet been confirmed, contact Deacon Dennis Smith at Nativity of the Lord Jesus at 330-699-5086 or by email at nativitydeacon@neohio.twcbc.com to arrange for sacramental preparation.

ST. PAUL RCIA SESSIONS BEGIN OCTOBER 14
St. Paul parish welcomes anyone who is interested in becoming Catholic, anyone who is Catholic and has not received the Sacrament of Confirmation or anyone who is Catholic and is interested in learning more about their faith to register for the upcoming RCIA sessions beginning Tuesday, October 14, 2008.Contact the Rectory at 330-724-1263.

Serra Club to 'picnic' at St. Paul

Notes garnered from the July, 2008 newsletter of the Serra Club of Akron edited by Thomas Giffels of St. Vincent parish.

PICNIC AT ST. PAUL: They are calling it a Picnic, but without the rain and ants. Akron Serra Club members will attend a Mass at 4:30 p.m. on August 23 at St. Paul Church followed by a covered dish dinner in Boeke Hall. Chicken , soft drinks and mixes will be furnished. Bring a dish and beverage of your choice. Dave Nesline of St. Paul is in charge: 330-724-1436.

Other upcoming programs:

Tuesday, July 22: Dave Fetyko of Holy Family parish will present “St. Paul in Greece; Pictures and Scripture.”

Tuesday, Aug. 12: Carl Winterich of St. Mary parish in Hudson will describe his experience in his third year of the Permanent Diaconate program.

Saturday, September 27: Where Are You Going Retreat at Center for Pastoral Leadership in Wicliffe. Breakfast workers are needed at 7:30 a.m. The annual one-day retreat is for single adults ages 20 to 40 to explore and learn about a life of community, prayer and service, particularly as they are lived by priests, sisters, and brothers. The retreat is from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

FOUNDATION REPORT: A financial report has prepared by Giffels for the Distrcit 95 Foundation which provides financial support for the Where Are You Going Retreat..
The repport for the third quarter from July 2007 to March 2008 showed contributions of $4,050, including $320 from Akron, and expenses of $2,214.98 which provided a net income of $2,047.28 includiing $207.26 interest and total assets of $2,047.28

THE FEST: The FEST on August 3 at the Center for Pastoral Leadeship in Wickliffe again is expected to draw a huge crowd The Serra Club will have a display. .

NECROLOGY: Philip Herbst , a long time Serra member, died May 28 in Fort Myers, FL, at the age of 93. He was treasurer of the Akron Serra Club for many years and was a regular Serra International Convention attendee. He was a certified public accountant. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Funeral Mss is Saturday for Irene Hoover

Irene Hoover, age 86, passed away July 16, 2008 at Rockynol.

Irene was born in Patton, Pennsylvania, but spent over 70 years as a resident of Akron.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, and is survived by daughter, Susan (Daryl) Keltz of Lexington, Ky.; son, James (Roberta) Hoover; granddaughter, Emily Hoover; and grandson, Michael Hoover, all of Wadsworth, Ohio; and brother, Joseph and sister, Margaret.

A special thanks to the professional staff at Rockynol for their care and compassion.

Calling hours TODAY from 4 till 7 p.m. at the Ciriello & Carr Fairlawn Chapel, (39 S. Miller Road). Funeral Mass at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St. Akron, Ohio 44301, where friends may call from 8:45 a.m. till service time. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. The Family suggests Memorials be made to the church.
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH,Friday, July 18, 2008 , page B4, col. 4]

Men's Fellowship breakfast is Saturday

The Men's Fellowship of St. Paul will meet at 8 a.m. Saturday in Boeke Hall for the monthly breakfast. An interesting program by Hank Richard is promised.

Second Reading for Mass: Paul to Romans

Portions of St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans are used during the Second Reading at Sunday Mass during July and August. This is the second reading of St. Paul's Letter to the Romans to be read at Masses this weekend:

Romans 8: 26-27
Brothers and sisters:
The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes with inexpressible groanings. And the one who searches hearts knows what is the intention of the Spirit, because he intercedes for the holy ones according to God’s will.

Diocese comments on Plain Dealer article

The following is reprinted from the weekly e-newsletter of the Cleveland Diocese which is emailed on Fridays:

For The Record - An important message to the people of the Diocese:
Plain Dealer cluster story is unfair and irresponsible

The Diocese of Cleveland is truly dismayed with an entirely speculative story in the Sunday, July 13th Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper with the headline "Minority and Ethnic Parishes Face Cuts" as related to the current parish clustering and collaboration process.
First and foremost, there is no plan in place. The article implies that cluster decisions have been made; in fact, no final decisions will be announced by Bishop Lennon until March of 2009. The process itself is far from over and in most cases, the recommendations of the cluster teams for initial presentations to their parishioners have not been determined, let alone, submitted to Bishop Lennon for the diocesan review process.

The integrity of this extensive and complex clustering and collaboration process has now been compromised. We are totally bewildered by the Plain Dealer’s need to turn this serious and complex matter into random speculation, not unlike predicting the outcome of a horse race. The newspaper has made no effort to respect the deep-seated dedication of hundreds of parish leaders from across the Diocese who are carefully preparing presentations about the details and rationale of their recommendations to be reported to their respective parishioners for further consultation.

The Diocese and the cluster teams are especially sensitive to serving people who are in ethnic and minority groups, respecting their unique pastoral needs, while at the same time respecting the value of our unity as a Catholic church. The newspaper story was very unbalanced in making comments about St. Cecilia and Epiphany parishes, which have predominantly black membership, while ignoring the third parish in the cluster, Our Lady of Peace that is very proud of the racial, ethnic and socioeconomic diversity of its congregation.

This irresponsible article has unduly upset many people and these issues need clarification:

· Parish and Diocesan leaders must now dispel the notion, unfairly planted by the
Plain Dealer, that the process is over and decisions have been … this is not true.

· Parish leaders serving on cluster planning teams now must deal with the
hurt and anger in their parishioners before presenting the results of
months of careful work which will be explained in its proper context.

· Pastors have had to face upset parishioners who cannot understand why
sensitive information would be presented in a newspaper story rather than
from their pastors and parish leaders.

· Leaders in the Diocese must refute rumors that the diocese released
such information about a “hidden” plan; realizing that no one on the Diocesan
level would ever say anything about the proposal of a cluster before it is
presented to the respective parishioners.

· No respect has been given to an in-depth Diocesan review process which will
begin in September when the first plans are submitted involving a committee
of representatives from across the Diocese, as well as Bishop Lennon,
his staff, and the Presbyteral (Priests) Council. Only at the end of this process
will Bishop Lennon announce final decisions about cluster plans.

In a letter to the Plain Dealer editor, the Diocese suggested that the people of the Diocese “BEWARE OF FALSE PROPHETS.” The people of the Diocese are once again being asked to place their faith in the Vibrant Parish Life II clustering and collaboration process, where, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we will emerge with a stronger, more vibrant Church in the Diocese of Cleveland to love and serve the Lord.

Click on the headline to read the Plain Dealer story which is headlined:

"Diocese reorganization hits ethnic, minority parishes"

The story includes two photos and mentions only Cleveland area parishes.

BXVI text messages encourage and catechize

SYDNEY, Australia, JULY 17, 2008\.- Benedict XVI is weaving together a mini-catechesis with a medium nearly any young person can relate to -- cell phone text messages.

Before the Pope's boat-a-cade reached Sydney Harbor today for his official arrival to World Youth Day, the Holy Father sent his third text message. This one said, "The Holy Spirit is the principal agent of salvation history: let him write your life-history 2 - BXVI."

On Wednesday, after his encounter with typical Australian animals, including a koala bear and a carpet python, the Pontiff sent a text message reading, "The Holy Spirit gave the Apostles & gives u the power boldly 2 proclaim that Christ is risen! - BXVI."

Pilgrims received their first text message from the Bishop of Rome on Monday. It said, "Young friend, God and his people expect much from u because u have within you the Fathers supreme gift: the Spirit of Jesus - BXVI."

Youth Day participants can receive the messages by texting the word Pope to a special number. Benedict XVI is expected to send a message each day of the event.

Christ offers more! Pontiff tells youth

SYDNEY, Australia, JULY 17, 2008--"Christ Offers More! Indeed He Offers Everything," Benedict XVI told youth at the welcoming celebration of World Youth Day, under way through Sunday.

In his address at Barangaroo East Darling Harbor in Sydney, the Pontiff said in part:

“Dear friends, life is not governed by chance; it is not random. Your very existence has been willed by God, blessed and given a purpose (cf. Gen 1:28)! Life is not just a succession of events or experiences, helpful though many of them are.

“It is a search for the true, the good and the beautiful. It is to this end that we make our choices; it is for this that we exercise our freedom; it is in this – in truth, in goodness, and in beauty – that we find happiness and joy. Do not be fooled by those who see you as just another consumer in a market of undifferentiated possibilities, where choice itself becomes the good, novelty usurps beauty, and subjective experience displaces truth.

“Christ offers more! Indeed he offers everything! Only he who is the Truth can be the Way and hence also the Life. Thus the “way” which the Apostles brought to the ends of the earth is life in Christ. This is the life of the Church.”
[Source: Zenit.org world Catholic news organiozation]

Click on the headline to read the full text.

See the World Youth Day website.

Pontiff asks what kind of world youth will inherit

SYDNEY, Australia, JULY 16, 2008 .- Benedict XVI says World Youth Day is an occasion to reflect on what kind of world will be handed on to future generations.

The Pope affirmed this Thursday morning local time at an official welcome ceremony at Sydney's Government House. The Holy Father was received there by Governor-General Michael Jeffery and Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and his wife Therese.

"Some might ask what motivates thousands of young people to undertake what is for many a long and demanding journey in order to participate in an event of this kind," Benedict XVI said. "Ever since the first World Youth Day in 1986, it has been evident that vast numbers of young people appreciate the opportunity to come together to deepen their faith in Christ and to share with one another a joyful experience of communion in his Church.

"They are eager to take part in an event which brings into focus the high ideals that inspire them, and they return home filled with hope and renewed in their resolve to contribute to the building of a better world."

The Pope affirmed that for him it is a "joy to be with" the youth. "World Youth Day fills me with confidence for the future of the Church and the future of our world," he said. [Source: Zenit.org world Catholic news organization]

Mass for nurses set for August 7

St. Paul’s Church will be offering a Mass of Thanksgiving and Blessing for all those serving in the nursing profession on Thursday, August 7, at 7:p.m. The intention of this Mass is to pay tribute to and to offer thanks and prayers for all nurses in the community.

Fr. Durkee writes about Retreat to El Salvador

Father David R. Durkee, pastor of Queen of Heaven parish, visited the Cleveland Diocese Mission in El Salvador. He writes about the visit in the parish newsletter, the Heavenly News:

A few months ago, in April, I was privileged to make my annual retreat to El Salvador with ten other priests from our diocese. As you know, for the last 44 years our Diocese has had a presence there. The first three days of the retreat, I was able to retrace the steps of the martyrs Bishop Oscar Romero, Sr. Dorothy Kazel, and Jean Donovan—and the Jesuit martyrs.

The last four days we visited our parishes we are presently staffing. Let’s just say it truly was a most memorable retreat. The retreat house itself was built in a mountain slope overlooking the capital city of San Salvador—over 200 steps to get from the dining room to my room to the Chapel—let’s just say I discovered I was quite out of shape.

Every meal served a dish of black beans and rice as sometimes the main dish or at least a side dish. The first thing I ate when the plane landed back in America was a Wendy’s hamburger. It never tasted so good.

What I witnessed in El Salvador those seven days was a country of people who didn’t have much in terms of material possessions, many of them living out of cardboard boxes . . . but they seemed so happy, so cheerful and faithful. Now I know why the priests that volunteer for mission work there seem to be the most happy and fulfilled.

This trip helped teach me to keep life in perspective. The average Salvadorian makes only $8.00 a day and their gas is now over $4.00 a gallon.

May we pray daily for our mission team in El Salvador. May the Lord grant them zeal in all of their work.

God Bless them and us.

Love in Christ,

Father Dave

Blogger Notes:
Rev. Fr. Paul Schindler, who was pastor of St. Bernard Church, returned to El Salvador. In April.. He first became a member of the Diocesan Pastoral Team in El Salvador on June 28, 1972 and was named coordinator on February 23, 1976. He returned to Akron in January, 1982 and was at St. Bernard until returning to El Salvadpr.

The Rev. Fr, R. Stephen Vellenga, diocesan mission director, was an associate at St. Paul in 1982-87 and was on the mission team in El Salvador in 1987-1995. He is pastor of St. Mary parish in Painesville

BXVI sends text message to WYD08 in Sydney

SYDNEY, Australia,.- Cardinal George Pell gave a message of welcome and hope to an energized crowd gathered together for the opening Mass of World Youth Day.

Before the Mass got under way today, the some 150,000 youth were greeted by warm weather in Sydney and a welcome event celebrating indigenous culture. And the young people got a text message from none other than Benedict XVI.

The Pope's message said:

"Young friends, God & his people expect much from u, because u have within u the Father's supreme gift: the Spirit of Jesus -- BXVI."

After a 168-flag procession and the entrance of the youth day cross and icon, Cardinal Pell welcomed the international pilgrims in four languages.

His greeting was reciprocated with wild applause and accompanied by chants and cheers similar to those used for papal receptions. Cardinal Pell was joined by 26 other cardinals, 400 bishops, a 300-person youth choir, and an 80-piece orchestra. He had told members of the media earlier this week that he was looking forward to celebrating the biggest Mass of his life.

As the sun set over the western Sydney waterfront skyline, Cardinal Pell used the first reading from Ezekiel about the valley of dry bones to illustrate the promise of hope.

Click on the headline to read the full story by Zenit, a Catholic world news agency.

Here's a Conversion coloring page

Here's a drawing of the Conversion of St. Paul just for coloring. Click on the image first and then hit control P on your keyboard to print

Summit South 6 Cluster prepares reports

Committees of the Summit South 6 Cluster are preparing their reports to be sent to Bishop Richard G. Lennon in December. The Summit 6 Cluster News was inserted in Sunday bulletins and a copy is on our parish website.

Here is a summary from the July 12-13 issue:

Sub-Committee 1: Strengthen Pastoral Care is putting together a preliminary "Master Schedule" of RCIA, Adult Confirmation and Infant Baptism Classes for each of our four parishes. They will be working to strengthen pastoral care by making ministries more available to all cluster members. Each parish will still have these classes, but going to other parishes may suit your time or specific class needs better.

Sub-Committee 2: Strengthen Evangelization and Services to the Poor is compiling information of the different ministries into a document that can be distributed among the cluster parishes. This document would be an answer to the challenge of strengthening the social and community services that serve the poor and surrounding neighborhoods.We will need your input to determine the best way to answer this calling.

Sub-committee 3: Increase Participation and Attendance is putting together a program (based on the best practices from a parish in another cluster) to reach out to every person registered at the Church by visitations including offering them information about our churches and listening to their concerns.

Earn penny for school each time you search web

What if St. Paul School had a penny
for every time you searched the Internet?

Search the web with www.goodsearch.com and money from Yahoo advertisers will go to St. Paul School without you spending a dime.

With each search you launch on goodsearch.com, about 1 cent goes to St. Paul. You simply type St. Paul School Akron in the block that says "enter your charity here."

If 1,000 people from St. Paul searched twice a day for a year, the school would earn $7,300.

GoodSearch.com is powered by Yahoo! and raises money for charities using a model similar to paid searches on Yahoo or Google (Research): Advertisers pay a fee whenever Internet users click on a given link. Last year search engines generated almost $6 billion through such searches.

We suggest that you bookmark www.goodsearch.com or make it one of your favorites.

It's Happening at St. Paul

MONDAY, July 14
Men’s Fellowship Prayer and Bible study at 7 p.m. in Room 111. The Bible study passage will be John 11: 17-44 The Resurrection and the Life

Tuesday, July 15
Eucharistic Adoration with church open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Senior Prayer Hour 1 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoratiom
Venture Crew at 7 p.m. in Youth Room

WEDNESDAY, July 16
Bible Study at 9:15 .a.m. Room 111
Bible Study at 7 p.m. in rectory
Liturgy and Worship Committee at 7 p.m. Room 111

SATURDAY, July 19
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast at 8 a.m. in Boeie Hall.
Mission Appeal: Fr. Kenneth Breen, of the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy will speak at all Masses on Saturday and Sunday in a mission appeal for the Society of the Propagration of the Faith

SUNDAY, July 20
Sacrament of Anointing after the 9 a.m. Mass. Please sit in every other pew in the middle section of church.

Noted in this week’s bulletin

BOOSTER CLUB NEWS
Gary Chrostowski is looking at a possible Euchre Tournament as a fundraiser for the Booster Club in October. Please contact Gary at 330-896-5768 if you have any information that might be helpful or if you would like to help. The Reverse Raffle will be Saturday, February 21, 2009. Please mark your calendar. A “Thank You” goes to John Garey for accepting the nomination of Boys Athletic Director.

FAIR TRADE COFFEE AND TEA PRODUCTS
Anyone interested in purchasing Fair Trade Coffee and Tea products may place the order in the drop box in the narthex. A list with product descriptions will also be available. Orders may be picked up during the Market Day pickup time. If you need to pick up your order at a time other than Market Day, or if you have any questions, please contact Ruth Browne at 330-724-7115.

OPENINGS STILL AVAILABLE AT ST. PAUL SCHOOL
There are still openings for grades Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten through fifth grades. If you are considering a Catholic education for your child please call the School Office at 330-724-1253.

COMMUNITY PREGNANCY CENTER NEEDS ITEMS
Community Pregnancy Center at 1058 Wooster Rd. West in Barberton needs donations of peanut butter, Similac and Isomil formula, and children’s clothing. Call 330-825-1900 to help or for help.

PRE-BAPTISM CLASS IS JULY 27
The next Pre-Baptism class for expectant parents will be Sunday, July 27, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the North Akron Catholic Elementary School Library, 1570 Creighton Ave., (off E. Tallmadge Ave.) in north Akron. To register, call Christ the King rectory at 330-633-8418. Cost is $5. per couple to cover materials.

PRE-CANA DAYS SCHEDULED AT LOYOLA OF THE LAKES
Loyola of the Lakes Retreat House will offer Pre-Cana Days July 27, August 31, September 28 and November 16. The day begins at 1: p.m. and concludes at 7 p.m. Cost is $70 per couple and includes dinner. Presented by Paul and Kathy Weber. Call 330-896-2315 to register or go to www.loyolaofthelakes.com.

Mass Intentions July 12-20

SATURDAY, July 12 Weekday
4:30 Deceased membersof Daley & Rehs Families

SUNDAY, July 13 Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
9:00 Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul
11:00 Edward Fogarty +

MONDAY, July 14 Bl. Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin
7:00 For the poor
8:30 Richard McIntyre +

TUESDAY, July 15 Bonaventure, bishop, doctor
7:00 For those with chronic illness
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, July 16 Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
7:00 For all missionaries
8:30 Anne Pennington +

THURSDAY, July 17 Weekday
7:00 For peace in the world
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDAY, July 18 Camillus de Lellis, priest
7:00 Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30 Peg, Ray & Tom Ost +

SATURDAY, July 19 Weekday
4:30 Stella Trissel +

SUNDAY, July 20 Sixteenth Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Irene Lichty +
11:00 Carol Minns +

Take a close look at Parish Activity Center doors

Have you ever really looked at the PAC doors?

How many times have you opened the front door of the Parish Activity Center? And how many times have you really looked at the doors? The double doors, of course, were installed as the front of St. Paul Chapel where most attended Mass because the old church was not large enough. They contain beautiful carvings.

The words “Saint Paul’s Chapel” are carved into the top rectangle of the doorway. Carvings of the middle panels of each door are events depicting the life of the Apostle who is the patron saint of our parish. On the left door the top panel is titled “Paul Teaching” and the panel below is titled “Baptism of Paul.” The words “Paul Teaching” is in the top part of the right door and “Conversion of Paul” is on the panel below.

It is believed the doors were installed when the chapel was constructed,. Please send an email to the blog or contact the rectory if you have any information on when the doors were installed and where and how they were made.

Click on the image for a better view of the doors or take a closeup look the next time you go to the Parish Activity Center.