Look and you can find inspiring news

Not all news is bad. Here are two inspiring stories you can read in today’s Beacon Journal:

One is a religion page story headlined “New face at Sebastian,” by Collette Jenkins on page A6. It contains this quote from the Rev. Fr. John Valencheck, the new administrator at St. Sebastian:

''I cannot believe this is what I do. I serve Christ and I serve people,'' Valencheck said. ''My job is to make sure that I get into heaven and that other people get into heaven. What could be better?''

The inspiring story includes photos of Valencheck at Mass and greeting a young student.

The other is a story on the sports page front by David Lee Morgan headlined “Hoban digs deep for win” about Hoban’s 39-21 win over Walsh Jesuit. Hoban seniors dedicated this game to their late freshman coach Terry Spoonster, who died of a heart attack while skiing when these seniors were freshmen.

The last game Spoonster coached was the freshmen's 18-12 victory over Walsh. The ball Hoban used last night was the ball that the seniors used in the win as freshmen.

Go to the Valencheck story

Go to the Hoban story

Reminder: Booster Club meeting is Sunday

The St. Paul Booster Club meeting is THIS Sunday, August 31,at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall

It's Happening at St. Paul

SUNDAY, August 31
Baptism preparation class at 1:30 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center.
St. Paul Booster Club will meet at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall

MONDAY, SEPTEMER 1 LABOR DAY
No school (Labor Day holiday)

TUESDAY, Sepdtember 2
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Church is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Senior Prayer Hour at 1 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration.
Girl Scout Troop 1080 at 2:45 p.m. in the school cafeteria
Girl Scout Troop 456 at 6 p..m. in the St. Paul School cafeteria
PTO Ways and Means Committee at 6:30 p.m. in Boeke Hall
Jugglers at 7 p.m. in the old Gym
Adult Choir practice at 7 p.m. in the Music Room
Used Book and CD Sale volunteers at 7 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center

WEDNESDAY, September 3
Bible Study at 9:15 a.m. in Room 111
Chess Club at 4 p. m. in Room 111.
Market Day pickup 5 to 8 p.m. in Boeke Hall
Mass and Novena to St. Paul at 7 p.m. in the Church
Bible Study at 7 p.m. in rectory

FRIDAY, September 5
Student Mass (First Friday) at 8:30 a.m. planned by Mrs. Sarah Mizak's eighth grade class

SUNDAY, September 7
PSR Sign-ups after 9 and 11 a.m. Masses in the Parish Activity Center

Noticed in this weekend's bulletin

HELP NEEDED FOR CHEMOTHERAPY PATIENT
A long-time member of St. Paul Parish, Tammy Hutcherson, is in the process of receiving a second round of chemotherapy to battle cancer. These treatments are extremely expensive and require a prolonged stay in Pittsburgh, PA. To help defray medical costs and other expenses for Tammy, an account titled, "Tammy Hutcherson Hope for Healing" has been opened by concerned friends at St. Paul Parish Federal Credit Union, 1762 Brown St., Akron. If you are able, monetary donations or gift cards for gas would be greatly appreciated by the family. All donations should be made at the Credit Union.

ST. PAUL SCHOOL CAFETERIA VOLUNTEERS STILL NEEDED
Cafeteria volunteers are still needed for St. Paul School on Wednesdays and some Fridays. Volunteers help with students, wash tables and general cleanup from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please call the School Office at 330-724-1253 to sign up.

ST. PAUL PARISH WOMEN'S GATHERING
All women are invited to the St. Paul Women's Gathering, Friday, October 3, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, October 4, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Friday evening will be a covered dish dinner served by the men of the parish, followed by a talk with Sr. Cheryl Rose and Saturday morning will be a continental breakfast also followed by a talk Sr. Cheryl Rose. She will be discussing "Having faith in God" and what it means to let God work in our lives. .

ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP
St. Paul Parish is sponsoring two estate planning workshops. The first workshop will be on Monday, September 15, 2 at 6 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center. Attorneys from Smith and Condeni LLP will discuss estate planning basics including wills, trusts, bequests, estate taxes, probate, planned giving and long-term care. A second workshop on October 13, will 1 focus more in detail on long-term care and disability planning. Both programs will include a discussion on planned giving and to the church in particular.

PAYDAY LENDING PETITION
The national payday lobby was granted the go-ahead by Ohio's Attorney General to start circulating petitions in support of a referendum to rescind the reform law recently passed by the Ohio Legislature (HB 545). In the teachings of our faith we have many warnings about usury and exploitation of people. HB 545 established needed reform. The Diocesan Social Action Office is discouraging Catholics from signing the petitions being circulated bv the industry, The reform of payday lending was a hard fought struggle that resulted in one of the strongest bills in the nation.

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

I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God,
to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,
holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship.
Do not conform yourselves to this age
but be transformed by the renewal of your mind,
that you may discern what is the will of God,
what is good and pleasing and perfect.

Drop-off is this weekend for books, music

Drop-off is this weekend for items for the Used Book and Music Sale on September 13.

Books, postcards, tapes, CDs and DVDs may be dropped off at the Parish Activity Center after the 4;30 p.m. Mass until 8 p.m. on Saturday and after the 9 and 11 .a.m. Masses until 2 p.m. on Sunday

Anyone interested in helping out with the sale or to schedule a drop-off at another time should call Ron McAvoy at 330-773-7389. A meeting of all volunteers for the Book Sale will be held on Tuesday, September 2, at 7 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center

The sale is 9 a. m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 13 in the Parish Activity Center. Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available during the sale

Datebook: What's Happening Elsewhere

PRINCE OF PEACE FALL CARD PARTY SEPTEMBER 10
Prince of Peace Parish, 1623 Shannon Ave., Barberton, will hold their annual Tall Card Party, Wednesday, September 10, at 6 p.m. in the hall. Doors open at 4:p.m. Donation is $6. A light supper will be served.

THE POPE'S MESSAGE TO AMERICA SEPTEMBER 16
Join the Cleveland Catholic Forum & Bioethics for Life for a presentation of Pope Benedict XVI's message to America by Vatican insider Dr. Robert Moynihan.. The event is Tuesday, September 16, at 7: p.m. at The Center for Pastoral Leadership, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe. The event is free. Visit www.clevelandcatholicforum.com for more information.

DIVORCED AND SEPARATED CATHOLICS SEPTEMBER 16
A monthly support group for Divorced and Separated Catholics will hold a caring and sharing evening of reflection and coming together to help those who are suffering and hurting. Tuesday, September 16, from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Hilary Parish, 2750 W. Market St., Fairlawn. For more information call Carolyn at 330-653-6512 extension 248.

RETREAT FOR PRAYERFUL SINGLE WOMEN SEPTEMBER 26-28
A retreat for those considering the convent as a nun or sister is coming up at the Capuchin Sisters of Nazareth in Williamsport, PA., September 26-28. Get clarity for your vocation and meet a lot of new friends. There is no charge and food and room are free. If you wish to .take a bus or plane to Williamsport, PA, we will even pick you up no charge. Call 1-800-2211807 for more information.

Mass Intentions August 30 - September 7

SATURDAY, August 30 Weekday
4:30 Sunday Vigil Harry Vezzani, Sr. +
Arthur & Eleanor Washack 50th Wedding Anniversary

SUNDAY, August 31 Twenty-Second Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Richard McIntyre +
11 :00 Ralph Young +

MONDA Y, September 1 Labor Day
10:00 Harry & Catherine Weigand + & Family

TUESDAY, September 2 Weekday
7:00 For all priests, deacons and religious
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, September 3 Gregory the Great, pope, doctor
7:00 For all who struggle with addictions
8:30 Mary Chopak +

THURSDAY, September 4 Weekday
7:00 For the ill and homebound
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDAY, September 5 Blessed Teresa of Calcutta
7:00 Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30 Special Intention for Fran Carver

SATURDAY, September 6 Weekday
4:30 Sunday Vigil Maureen "Mer" Lastocy+

SUNDA Y, September 7 Twenty-third Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Alma Lewis +
11 :00 Stella Trissel +

Pope Benedict's prayer intentions for Septmber

Pope Benedict's prayer intentions for September:

General:
That those who are forced to leave home and country because of war or oppressive regimes may be supported by Christians in the defense and protection of their rights.
Mission:
That faithful to the sacrament of matrimony every Christian family may cultivate the values of love and communion in order to be a small evangelizing community, sensitive and open to the material and spiritual needs of others

Tod Wammes accepts gavel as PTO president

More than a dozen parents joined seven teachers and Mrs. Rosemary Capotosto, the school principal, for the first session of the year of St. Paul’s PTO on Thursday evening in Boeke Hall.

President Jo Shoup turned over the gavel to incoming president Tod Wammes who in turn presented her a bouquet for her long service as president. Wammes is a former Parish Council president.

Other officers are Steve Dort, vice president; Carly LaPresta, secretary, and Lori Wammes, treasurer.

Teachers attending were Christine Ehasz, computer and physical education; Timothy Longfellow, music; Deborah Dodson, kindergarten; Suzanne Inglis, Grade 1; Janet Hazlett, Grade 4; Judson Hartman, science, and Jeanette Chonko, reading.

Requests were made for purchase of Smart Boards for Sean Collins' English Department and Judson Hartman’s Science Lab. Hartman gave an enthusiastic presentation of how the Smart Boards are used to enhance instruction and create interest in learning. The school has three Smart Boards which are used constantly and have been very effective, Mrs. Capotosto noted. The boards cost about $4,500 which includes a laptop computer, projector and other equipment.

Kindergarten teacher Deborah Dodson put in a request for an Inspiration Station, a portable display board with many features at a cost of $305..

Tom Cullison, a parent who heads the Market Day program, passed around a “wish list” which teachers and staff would like. [Please see the separate post.] Cullison urged PTO members to consider them and discuss them at a future session. Parents also will be asked if they know ways to secure some of those items.

Mrs. Capotosto noted that Monday (Labor Day) will be the first school holiday. Candy sales will begin next Friday through September 19 with 30-bar boxes. Other dates she announced:
Mandatory meeting September 23 at 1 p.m. or 8:30 p.m.
Picture Day September 18
Early dismissal September 9 at 1:45 p.m.
Calendar/Early dismissal changes January 20 and April 21
Math Night October 9 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Literature Night February 2 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Scene Night May 5 Two programs: Invention Convention and Science Fair
Walking Club will start in September
Writing proficiency tests were given in grades 2, 5, 7 and 8 and only four students did not measure proficiency. Cafeteria help is needed on Wednesday and some Fridays.

Treasurer Lori Wammes presented the treasurer’s report which showed deposits from Market Day of $378 on May 27, $387 on June 17 and $521 on August 25.

Jo Shoup explained the PTO meeting attendance incentive which is a $100 scholarship to be paid to St. Paul tuition or one of the private high school tuition programs for the family that has a member attending the most PTO meetings of the year. The funds will go to the tuition program and not directly to the family.

Betsy Roberts explained sale of entertainment books which will go on sale next month and the Sally Foster program for yule gifts to be conducted in November..

The next PTO meeting will be Thursday, September 18, at 6:30 p.m. in Boeke Hall. The next Ways and Means meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in Boeke Hall.

Cullison presents 'Wish List' to PTO

Tom Cullison presented St. Paul PTO members a “wish list” of items for the school at the PTO meeting Thursday night in Boeke Hall. He asked the PTO to consider it and also said parents will be given the list and asked if they know of any resources for obtaining the items. Here is the letter:

Dear PTO Members,

Late last school year St. Paul's PTO asked our school staff (teachers, teacher aides, office staff, custodial staff and support staff) to compile a "Wish List". On this "Wish List" we asked them to write down anything they felt they needed for their classroom, their grade-level and the school in general. Some of the items are large and somewhat costly while others are relatively small and inexpensive.

I am not sure which, if any, of these "Wish List" items are feasible but, I am presenting these to the PTO for our future consideration and discussion.

I am sure that there are many other items that will come up. We hope to continue to regularly ask our staff to up-date this list so we can stay on top of what our staff is looking for.

Our staff deserves our attention and we want them to know that we care.

New windows w/real glass that we can see through
New, brighter hallway lights
A Playground
A "smart board" for each floor
Replace broken "black/chalk boards" possibly with wipe-off boards
Rewire classroom internet connections to make them more convenient
A new teacher’s desk to replace "splintery" one
Laptop computers to supplement our computer lab and alleviate long waits
Quiet floor fans for classrooms
Mrs. Marell - new swivel type desk chair Area rug for room
Office - new wallpaper (current is old, peeling off and dirty)
Mrs. Inglis - Dry erasable markers (at least 30 various colors)
Classroom storage shelves (room 21)
Carpet squares for kids to sit on (carpet samples)
Air conditioners and corresponding electrical outlet in computer lab
Sound deadening for gym to quiet the echo
New clocks for science lab

Thank You,

Tom Cullison
8-27-08

Letters to go out for memorial ‘Giving Tree'

Sketch of the 'Giving Tree' memorial planned for narthex

Letters will be sent to around 250 parishioners who contributed to the 2001-2003 building campaigns for the new church and gymnasium.

Those who contributed $2,500 or more will be asked to designate the wording they want on the plates to be affixed to a “giving tree” that will become a permanent memorial in the narthex. A drawing of the tree on paper is now in place on the wall in the narthex.

Parishioners who would still like an opportunity to contribute should contact the rectory.

Here are the designated plates which will be affixed to the giving tree:

Copper leaf $2,500
Brass leaf $5,000
Acorn $10,000
Crown Acorn $15,000
Apostle Donor stone $25,000
Disciple Contributor Stone $50,000
Special Dedication stone $100,000

Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers for September

Lectors for September
Saturday 4:30 p.m. Darlene Musgrave
Sunday 9:00 a.m. Ann Riegler
Sunday 11:00 a..m. Youth lector

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for September
Saturday 4:30
Joyce Gannon
Rikki Horrigan
Nancy Leiby
Hank Richard
Judy Richard
Kenneth Roush
Penny Roush
Elanye Shoup

Sunday 9:00
Patty DiDonato
Rudy DiDonato
Art Mileski
Rosemary Mileski
Liz Muntean
Dora Weigand
John Woofter
Marilyn Woofter

Sunday 11:00
Maria Amedeo
Julie Gabelman
Susie Gatian
Betsy Roberts
George Roberts
Maggie Walker
Lori Wammes
Tod Wammes

Altar servers for September

Saturday, September 6
4:30 Matt Kannel and Jeremy Swords

Sunday, September 7
9:00 Aaron Abernathy and Erin Liggett
11:00 Michael Altomare and Scott Johnson

Saturday, September 13
4:30 Michael Sartoski and Alyse Bachmann

Sunday, September 14
9:00 Marco Colant and Noelle Colant
11:00 Katie Roberts and Emily Roberts

Saturday, September 20
4:30 Trevor Ellis and Matt Kannel

Sunday, September 21
9:00 Aaron Abernathy and Erin Liggett
11:00 Jacqueline Wammes and Sierra Robinson

Saturday, September 27
4:30 Alyse Bachmann and Jeremy Swords

Sunday, September 28
9:00 Ryan Testa and Josh Garey
11:00 Zachary Durbin and Adam Gray

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

September events posted on calendar

St. Paul events for September 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 September.

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.

Catholic Worker anniversary celebration continues

The tenth anniversary of the Catholic Worker in Akron and the 75th anniversary or the organization in America was celebrated with a Mass by retired Rev. Monsignor Robert C. Wolff at the Dorothy Day House Chapel on Sunday, August 16, followed by great food and music provided by the children within the community. The celebration will be extended on August 31. Guests and visitors of the Peter Maurin Center and all those unable to attend August 16 to gather at 4:30 p.m. at the Miller Avenue United Church of Christ, one block west of the Peter Maurin Center. We will open the doors at the Peter Maurin Center at noon for refreshments, so that our guests accustomed to this schedule will not be left out. There will be live music, great food, fellowship and fun All are invited.
[Source: Catholic Worker electronic newsletter August 26, 2008]

Pope Benedict XVI traces rough biography of St. Paul

At his Wednesday public audience on August 27, Pope Benedict XVI sketched a rough biography of St. Paul.

First the Pope explained that experts set the birth of St. Paul in the year 8 AD-- thus establishing this year as the 2000th anniversary-- because Saul was described as a young man at the time St. Stephen was slain, and as an old man when he was imprisoned in Rome.

Saul was born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia that was a provincial capital-- which, incidentally, was once ruled by Cicero, and later was the site of the first meeting between Marc Antony and Cleopatra.

Saul was a Jew who spoke Greek and a Roman citizen. Thus, the Pope remarked, he lived at the intersection of three important cultures. He was also a trained craftsman, who probably learned from his father to make tents.

At about the age of 12, young Saul left Tarsus for Jerusalem, to study in the strict tradition of the Pharisees. That study, the Pope observed, "instilled in him a great zeal for the Mosaic law," and caused him to view the followers of Christ as dangerous threats to Jewish orthodoxy and identity.

That intolerant attitude was changed completely along the road to Damascus, the Pope continued, and Paul became a tireless missionary for the Gospel. He undertook three great missionary journeys, which are described in the Acts of the Apostles, followed by his fourth trip as a prisoner to Rome.

Pope Benedict traced the route taken by Paul and his companions on those trips, as well as the key role that Paul played in the Council of Jerusalem. The Pope noted that while St. Luke reports that Paul spent two years in Rome under house arrest, the final events of the Apostle's life are not fully recorded. But apparently his appeal to the Emperor Nero was unsuccessful, and he died as a martyr. The Pontiff promised to speak about St. Paul's martyrdom, too, in a future Wednesday catechetical talk.
[Source: Catholid World News]

Reminder: PTO meeting is Thursday

If you visited St. Paul School during open house on Sunday and want to know more, why not attend the PTO meeting on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in Boeke Hall.

Cardinal Egan's Comments on the Unborn

Here is the statement Cardinal Edward Egan of New York released today in which he clarifies the stance of the Church against abortion.

* * *

Like many other citizens of this nation, I was shocked to learn that the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States of America would make the kind of statements that were made to Mr. Tom Brokow of NBC-TV on Sunday, August 24, 2008. What the Speaker had to say about theologians and their positions regarding abortion was not only misinformed; it was also, and especially, utterly incredible in this day and age.

We are blessed in the 21st century with crystal-clear photographs and action films of the living realities within their pregnant mothers. No one with the slightest measure of integrity or honor could fail to know what these marvelous beings manifestly, clearly, and obviously are, as they smile and wave into the world outside the womb.

In simplest terms, they are human beings with an inalienable right to live, a right that the Speaker of the House of Representatives is bound to defend at all costs for the most basic of ethical reasons. They are not parts of their mothers, and what they are depends not at all upon the opinions of theologians of any faith. Anyone who dares to defend that they may be legitimately killed because another human being “chooses” to do so or for any other equally ridiculous reason should not be providing leadership in a civilized democracy worthy of the name.

Edward Cardinal Egan
Archbishop of New York

[Source: Zenit, Catholic world news agency]

A response from Denver Archbishop:

Denver Archbishop Charles Chaput and his auxiliary bishop, James Conley, issued a statement posted on the archdiocesan Web site: "Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is a gifted public servant of strong convictions and many professional skills. Regrettably, knowledge of Catholic history and teaching does not seem to be one of them."

Abortion "is always gravely evil, and so are the evasions employed to justify it," the statement reads.

Book and music collection is this coming weekend

The big collection is scheduled for this coming weekend. Books, tapes and CDs are being collected for the St. Paul Parish Used Book and Music Sale on Saturday, September 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center.

All materials may be dropped off in the Parish Activity Center this Saturday, August 30, after the 4:30 p.m. Mass until 8 p.m. and Sunday, August 31, after the 9 and 11 a.m. Masses until 2: p.m.

Anyone interested in helping out with the sale or to schedule a drop off at another time call Ron McAvoy at 330-773-7389.

Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available during the sale.

Our 10,000th visitor logged on at 8:52 p.m.

Our 10,000th visitor on the Saint Paul TODAY blog logged in at 8:52 p.m.today. The blog was started on September 30, 2007. This is the 1,093rd item posted on the blog since then.. When the blog started, we got only about a dozen visits a day. We now average 30 to 40 visitors a day

Please visit church tomorrow for Adoration

Please don't forget to stop by the church tomorrow for Eucharistic Adoration.

The Church is open on Tuesdays from 7:30 to 8 p.m. Please drop by if only for a few minutes.

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."

There’s nothing like an ice cream social

It was a little after 2 p.m. on a warm Sunday, August 24, but there was still a gathering of St. Paul parishioners who had stayed around for ice cream and socializing on the rectory grounds. . That’s what you are supposed to do at an ice cream social.

Trees around the Marian Shrine provided a nice shade.

Jim Vondemkamp was playing “Won’t You Come Home, Bill Bailey” on the keyboard while Vickie Tomascin sang along and did a little dance routine. Michael Casalinova just stood by listening intently.

Up near the shrine, jugglers were tossing their pins on either side of a row of students to show their skill.

One young lad, out of sight of his parents, was having a little fun bursting a few of the balloons that were hung out for the event..

Other older folks just sat at tables or in chairs enjoying conversation, the beautiful sunshine and, of course, a little ice cream.

It was a time, too, for the pastor, Rev. Fr. Ralph Thomas, just to spend a little ordinary time with parishioners.

They all hope to do it again next year–or next time there is an occasion for an ice cream social.
There’s nothing like an ice cream social.

If you missed this one, click on the headline to see 16 photos from the event. The album includes photos provided by Tony DiDonato and Ron McAvoy. DiDonato told us he would post other photos on the kiosk at church. If anyone knows the identity of the little girl with face painting or boy and girl with eyes closed, please send email to hliggett@sbcglobal.net so we can identify them in the captions.

Back to School time at St. Paul

There were two new teachers in the building at the annual return-to-class Open House at St. Paul School on Sunday.

Judson Hartman, a product of St. Paul, is returning as a teacher. He will teach science and Grade 6 in Room 302. Across the hall is Mrs. Jeanette Chonko who will teach reading in Grades 6-8. She received her master’s degree in June from Ursuline College.

It was a warm afternoon but classrooms at St. Paul School on Sunday afternoon were filled with parents who wanted to check out the classrooms and talk to teachers while students were busy finding their lockers, covering books and loading their desks with new classroom supplies.

Downstairs in Mrs. Debbie Dodson’s classroom, Jesse Mautusicky (in pink top in the photo here) and classmate Alyson Misenhelter agreed that kindergarten is a great time. They built the Leaning Tower to show off their blossoming young skills.

Mrs. Rosemary Capotosto, the school principal, and Mrs. Mary Ann Dekemper, the school secretary, were at the entrance to welcome students, parents and other visitors.

It was a little cooler today for the first day of classes.

Click on the headline to go to an album of photos from the open house.

Hartman returns to St. Paul as teacher

St. Paul’s alumni keep coming back as if to repay an education debt. The new teacher last year was Sean Collins. This year it is Judson Hartman. Both attended St. Paul School and returned as teachers.

Hartman will be the Grade 6 teacher and also will teach all science classes at the junior high level. It will be a big challenge. He is replacing Mrs. Diane Zak, the veteran science teacher who retired at the end of last year.

Hartman will celebrate his 25th birthday on November 9,.

Some of the staff members who were working when Hartman attended St. Paul are still here, including his aunt, kindergarten teacher Debbie Dodson.

“I have always wanted to be a teacher and when I heard that the position at St. Paul was available, I jumped as the chance,” Hartman said.

Hartman was born in Akron and is the son of Kim and Greg Hartman

Hartman has an older brother, Ben, and two younger sisters, Emily and Lydia, who also attended St. Paul School. He currently lives in Firestone Park.

Hartman graduated from Hoban High School in 2002 and graduated John Carroll University where he played football and earned a degree in Middle Childhood Education with concentrations in Science and Social Studies. For the past year, he has
been substitute teaching in the Akron public schools as well as
at Hoban.

He is I an assistant coach for boys Lacrosse and girls soccer at Hoban. During the summer, he is director of CYO's Camp Christopher Day Camp.

“I am so excited to be coming back to my Alma Mater to do what I love,” Hartman said..

Jeanette Chonko to teach reading at St. Paul

Jeanette Chonko, who will teach reading in Grades 6-7-8 at St. Paul this year, celebrated two big events in her life this year.

She was married on May 24 and in June she received her master’s degree in reading education from Ursuline College.

Jeanette was married at St. John Nepomucene parish in Cleveland where she taught social studies, reading and religion for four years. Members of her class sang in the choir at her wedding to Adam Chonko.

Adam is a sales manager for Superior Beverage in Hudson and they now live in Medina and are members of St. Francis Xavier parish.

Mrs. Chonko, the daughter of Joseph and Mary Melhuish of Parma, graduated from Valley Forge High School in Parma Heights in 1999. She attended the University of Toledo in 1999-2001 and Lourdes College in 2001-2003 where she received her bachelor’s degree in middle childhood education. She received her master’s at Ursuline in June.

Mrs. Chonko said she views her role as a teacher is to provide a friendly, safe and positive environment to ensure that all children can and will learn. She said she has been impressed with St. Paul School.

“The atmosphere and rapport of the administration and staff far surpassed any experience I have ever had,” she said. . “Everyone was extremely welcoming and helpful. I immediately felt very greeted and right at home. The school appeared to be very cozy, neat, and geared toward children. I could feel the warmth and caring hearts all around me.”

Adult choir to resume practice

The St. PAul Adult Choir will resume practice on Tuesday, September 2, at 7 p.m. in the Music Room. New members are needed and welcome.

Session to highlight Firestone Park Crime prevention

Akron Police Department officer Mike Kulick and Ward 7 councilwoman Tina Merlitti will hold an important safety meeting at the Firestone Park Community Center, from 6 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27.

They will discuss the recent outbreak of burglaries in the Firestone Park area, especially within the blocks of Brown Street to the Expressway and Clinton Avenue to Wilbeth Road. Latest crime statistics for the neighborhood will be discussed along with simple home protection techniques and crime prevention .

"The security of our residential life depends on ourselves," a flyer announcing the meeting said. "No police department can effectively protect life and property without the support and active cooperation of the citizens whom it serves.

Seminary students attend Serra Club picnic

Seminary students Matt Jordan (left) of St. Francis de Sales parish with parents Walter and Shari and Michael Joseph of Hudson St. Mary parish with parents Mike and Lori

Two young seminary students were guests at the annual picnic of the Serra Club of Akron at St. Paul Church.

The Rev. Fr. Ralph W. Thomas, pastor of St. Paul, celebrated the Mass for vocations and Serrans then met for a covered dish dinner in Boeke Hall.

The young men were Matt Jordan of St. Francis de Sales parish, son of Walter and Shari Jordan, and Michael Joseph of St. Mary parish in Hudson, son of Mike and Lori Joseph.
The parents attended the dinner with their sons.


Bill Wittenauer of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish is president of the Akron club this year, replacing Rudy DiDonato of St. Paul who served three years. The members of the Akron club are from nine Summit County parishes. The Rev. Fr. Ralph Coletta,retired pastor of St. John the Baptist, is the club moderator.

Other officers are John Olin of Barberton Sacred Heart, treasurer; Vic Dandrea of Holy Family, secretary and vice presidents Dave Nesline of St. Paul, programs; Ron McAvoy of St. Paul, vocations; Tom Giffels, St. Vincent, communications, and Pete Mihelick of Holy Family, membership. Trustees are Rudy DiDonato of St. Paul, Kathy Mihelick of Holy Family and, Bob Maher of Hudson St. Mary.

Serra International is a non-profit Catholic organization made up of laymen and laywomen from around the world who pray and work to foster and promote vocations to the priesthood and consecrated religious life.

Meetings are at noon on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Martin University Center, 105 Fir Hill, on the University of Akron campus

Guests and new members are always welcome. For more information call: Steve Dishauzi - (330) 928-8474 or John "Pete" Mihelick - (330) 688-8806

Click on the headline to view an album of photos at the dinner.

It's Happening at St. Paul

SUNDAY, AUGUST 24
PSR registration will be after Sunday Masses on August 24 and September 7 in the Parish Activity Center.
St. Paul School Open House begins at noon. All parishioners, parents friends and neighbors are invited to visit the school.
Ice Cream Social is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. on the rectory grounds. Ice cream and cupcakes will be provided and Jim Vondemkamp will provide music.
Hibernian Club will have luncheon after the 11 a.m. Mass in honor of the Feast of Our Lady of Knock. Luncheon will be at the club’s new home at 2000 Brown Street, across from the post office.

MONDAY, AUGUST 25
First Day of School
Men's Fellowship scripture and Bible study at 7 p.m. in Room 111. The Bible study passage is John 12:26-50 Jesus speaks about His death.
Cub Scouts Pack meeting at 6 p.m. in Boeke Hall.

TUESDAY, August 26
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.. Church is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Senior Prayer Hour at 1 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration.

WEDNESDAY, August 27
Bible Study at 9:15 a.m. in Room 111
Bible Study at 7 p.m. in rectory
Chess Club at 4 p.m. in Room 111

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28
PTO meeting at 6:30 p.m. in Boeke Hall\

SUNDAY, August 31
Baptism preparation class at 1:30 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center.
St. Paul Booster Club will meet at 7 p.m. in Boeke Hall

Datebook: What's Happing Elsewere

BISHOP GRIES Q&A ON CATHOLIC CHURCH SEPTEMBER 2
Bishop Roger Gries, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland, will speak on "Questions and Answers About the Catholic Church," at 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 2, at St. Martha Parish, 300 E. Tallmadge Ave.. Following the presentation there will be small discussion groups on a variety of subjects including one with Bishop Gries. These gatherings are open to anyone who has questions or concerns about the Catholic faith or who simply wants to grow in faith. No cost and reservations are not required. Questions may be submitted in advance to pflaherty@dioceseofcleveland.org.

HELP FOR TROUBLED MARRIAGES SEPTEMBER 5-7
Retrouvaille has helped thousands of couples at every stage of disillusionment, even those thinking of separation and divorce. Don't wait until it gets that bad! Call now for a brochure and information about the September 5-7 weekend at the Cleveland Hilton Inn, Beachwood. A registration of $50 is requested to confirm a reservation. For information about the program or to register contact Al & Diane Miskinis at 330-665-3506 or 1-800470-2230. You may also learn about Retrouvaille on the web at www.helpourmarriage.com.

HEALTH CARE DEBATE FORUM SEPTEMBER 10
The Diocesan Social Action Office is presenting "The Role of the Faith Community in the Health Care Debate.". The forum on rising health costs, growing number of uninsured and quality of care will be on Wednesday, September 10, at Sacred Heart of Jesus, 272 Broad St., Wadsworth from 7 to 9 p.m. For information call Ann Coplan at 330-535-2787. Please reserve a spot at least three days prior so that materials will be available for everyone.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING RETREAT IS SEPTEMBER 27
The Diocesan Vocation Office invites single Catholic women and men (ages 18-40) to join local sisters, brothers, deacons, and priests for the annual "Where Are You Going?" Retreat on Saturday, September 27, at the Center for Pastoral Leadership, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe. The day-long retreat (8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) is intended for young adults considering the possibility of serving the Lord as a consecrated religious, deacon, or priest and will conclude with the vigil Mass for Sunday. Cost is free, but reservations are required. Contact Sr. Lenore Thomas, IHM,by email at lthomas@dioceseofcleveland.org or call 216-696-6525, ext. 3460, for more information or reservations no later than Monday, September 22.

BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLY DONATIONS SOUGHT
Many children need supplies to have a successful school year. Community Pregnancy Center helps children heading back to school with new paper, scissors, back packs, lunch boxes and all of those other back-to-school items that many stores have at great sale prices. Your child may not need them, but plenty of others do. Take your tax deductible donations to 1058 Wooster Rd. West, Barberton. Call 330-825-1900 to help others or for help for yourself.

Mass Intentions August 23-31

SATURDAY, August 23 Rose of Lima, virgin
4:30 Sunday Vigil Ralph Tawney +
For an Increase in Vocations (Serra Club)

SUNDAY, August 24 Twenty-first Sunday Ordinary Time-Our Lady of Knock
9:00 Bob Nesline + (anniv.)
11:00 William Johnson + (anniv.)

MONDAY, August 25 Louis of France, Joseph Calasanz, priest
7:00 For Peace in the World
8:30 Cyril, Rose & Charles Gersna +

TUESDAY, August 26 Weekday
7:00 For the ill and homebound
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, August 27 Monica
7:00 For all Police Officers and Firefighters
8:30 Beatrice DiDonato +

THURSDAY, August 28 Augustine, bishop, doctor
7:00 For all Seniors
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDA Y, August 29 Martyrdom of John the Baptist
7 :00 Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30 Anne & John Keith +

SATURDAY, August 30 Weekday
4:30 Sunday Vigil Harry Vezzani, Sr. +
Arthur & Eleanor Washack 50th Wedding llnniversary

SUNDAY, August 31 Twenty-Second Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Richard McIntyre +
11 :00 Ralph Young +

Entertainment books being sold again

Once again St. Paul School will be selling entertainment books to benefit the school. Books cost $30 and can be ordered from any St. Paul student. Call Laura Grubb at 330-785-3767 with any questions or if you would like to purchase a book.

Serrans picnic at St. Paul is Saturday

The welcome signs are out in the narthex for the Serra Club of Akron which will have its annual picnic at St. Paul on Saturday.

The picnic will begin with a Mass for vocations at 4:30 p.m. There will be a covered dish dinner in Boeke Hall after the Mass.

Serrans work to ensure vocations for the future of the church. Click on the Serra Club label at left to read about activities of the Akron club. A number of St. Paul parishioners are members.

If you are interested in more information call Steve Dishauzi at 330-928-8474 or John "Pete" Mihelick at 330-688-8806 or contact St. Paul members Rudy DiDonato, Ron McAvoy or Dave Nesline.

The welcome signs were made by Jim Vondemkamp.

Light of the World Icons mounted in narthex

These two mounted icons have been placed in the narthex.

Christ the Light of the World radiates grace and strength through this compelling and colorful icon on the right which has the words I am the Light of the World.

Our Lady of Light with the Christ Child is on the left.

Click on the image for a full view.

Universe Bulletin features St. Paul

(Photo by George Ruegg)

Metal artwork on church wall. George Borisuk worked for 10 months in his spare time

Activities of St,. Paul parish to observe the Pauline Year honoring our patron saint are featured in the page 1 article on the Year of St. Paul in the August 22 issue of the Catholic Universe Bulletin.

A photo of our pastor, the Rev. Fr. Ralph Thomas, and a black and white reproduction of the metal artwork on the northeast wall of the church are used to illustrate the story by Sarah Sweda.

The article notes that St. Paul Church, one of the pilgrimage sites designated by Bishop Richard Lennon for the Pauline Year, is celebrating a Mass and Novena each month and other events throughout the year to welcome visitors.

The distinctive metal artwork traces the stages of St. Paul’s life from Saul the persecutor to Paul the martyr hangs on the northeast wall of the church.

The artwork is fashioned from pliable metal meticulously formed into a 15-foot long tableau with the word Saul at the left and Paul at the right .St. Paul is depicted from student to tentmaker, to convert, missionary, confessor, author and finally martyr. The conversion is the center of the design.

The artwork was crafted from a design created on large sheets of paper by Sister Carol Joy who was at St. Paul at the time it was created during the pastorate (1973-1981). of the late Fr. Thomas Koegel. The metal work was formed by parishioner George Borisuk who used round steel to cut, shape and weld together to form the design. Borisuk spent 10 months in his spare time to fashion the artwork from the drawing.

Fr.. Thomas, was in Rome to attend the Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica for the feast of SS Peter and Paul on Sunday, June 29, when Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople joined Pope Benedict XVI and both delivered homilies for the inaugural of the Pauline Year. The photo shows Fr. Thomas in front of Trevi Fountain in Rome.

The parish is commemorating the jubilee year with a Mass and novena to St. Paul on the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the church. There also are discussions on the Letters and writings of St. Paul on the second Wednesday of each month throughout the Pauline Year which continues until June 29, 2009. The jubilee year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Apostle .

Because the church has been designated as a pilgrimage site each and every truly repentant individual member of the Christian faithful, duly absolved through the Sacrament of Reconciliation and restored with Holy Communion and who prays for the Supreme Pontiff's intentions, will be granted the Plenary Indulgence from temporal punishment for his/her sins, once sacramental forgiveness and pardon for any shortcomings has been obtained.

The Christian faithful may benefit from the Plenary Indulgence both for themselves and for the deceased, as many times as they fulfil the required conditions but only once a day.

In order that the prayer raised on this holy visit may lead and invite the souls of the faithful to venerate more intensely the memory of St. Paul, the following has been established:

The faithful, in addition to raising their own supplications before the altar of the Most Blessed Sacrament, each one according to his own devotion, must devoutly recite the Our Father and the Creed, adding pious invocations in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Paul. And may this devotion always be closely united to the memory of the Prince of the Apostles, St. Peter.

Paul Adam to be installed as Ladies Guild president

Paula Adam will be installed as president of the St. Paul Ladies Guild for 2008-2009 at the Guild’s first meeting of the year on Thursday, September 11. The meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. in the Pariah Activity Center.

Paula, who was president in 1994-1995 will be installed by the Rev. Fr. Ralph W. Thomas. She replaces Mary Lou Goodhart, who has been president for three terms.

A "finger food" covered dish with coffee, tea and punch will be served at the meeting which is open to all members of the parish.

Many members of the Guild are cheering “no more steps” since the meeting location has been changed from Boeke Hall to the Parish Activity Center.

For information, contact Mary Lou Goodhart at 330-773-9379.

Reminder: Sunday will be busy time

It has been pretty quiet around the parish, but Sunday will bring all kinds of activities.

St. Paul School will have its regular open house at noon after the 11 a.m Mass, public school students will be registering for PSR after all the Masses and the Parish Council will stage an ice cream social starting at 1 p.m. on the rectory grounds. And there also will be a celebration in honor of the Feast of Our Lady of Knock at the 11 a.m. Mass. It is sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and will feature Irish tenor Patrick Flynn.

PSR registration will be after all the Sunday Masses on August 24 and September 7 in the Parish Activity Center.
St. Paul School Open House begins at noon. All parishioners, parents friends and neighbors are invited to visit the school. Students should bring supplies, cover books, find their seats and lockers and introduce themselves to the teacher. Then students can join the ice cream social.
The Ice Cream Social is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. on the rectory grounds. Ice cream and cupcakes will be provided and Jim Vondemkamp will provide music.
The Hibernian Club will have luncheon after the 11 a.m. Mass at the club’s new home at 2000 Brown Street, across from the post office.

Here’s the school news:
The first day of school for Grades 1-8 is Monday, August 25. Starting date, for Kindergarten is Tuesday, August 26, (Staggered Schedule) and for Pre-school it is Tuesday, September 2.

There are still openings available in Pre-Kindergarten and other grades in the school. You can call the school office at 330-724-1253 for more information.

NEW TEACHERS
Joining the St. Paul School staff this year are Judson Hartman, a St, Paul graduate who will teach science and Grade 6, and Jeanette Chonko of Medina who will teach reading part-time in Grades 6-8. Hartman replaces Diane Zak who retired at the end of last school year.

CAFETERIA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Cafeteria Volunteers are needed from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday to help with the students, washing tables. Moms, dads, grandparents and others who would like to help are asked to call the school office at 330-724-1253.

ST. PAUL SCHOOL MARKET DAY
As the 2008-09 school year begins the St. Paul PTO Market Day program continues to move forward and grow. The program has brought in an average of over $500 a month and has helped fund many things that the PTO has purchased for the school over the years. Market Day is a monthly “food co-op” fund raising program that offers numerous food items with an average of 10 percent coming back to St. Paul School and Parish. The September Market Day order forms are available in the narthex. Please feel free to take extra forms to encourage family, friends and co-workers to place an order. If you would like to know more about Market Day, please feel free to call Tom Cullison at 330-724-3218. You can also check out market day during the open house.

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 . Romans 11:33-36

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!
How inscrutable are his judgments and how unsearchable his ways!
For who has known the mind of the Lord
or who has been his counselor?
Or who has given the Lord anything
that he may be repaid?
For from him and through him and for him are all things.
To him be glory forever. Amen. upon all.

Bishops ask Catholics to pray election novena

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops invites U.S. Catholics to pray before the November election a novena for life, justice, and peace called Novena for Faithful Citizenship. It is a podcast and available for download.

Joan Rosenhauer, Associate Director for the Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development, said that the special novena is part of “the bishops’ campaign to help Catholics develop well-formed consciences for addressing political and social questions.” The bishops issued their statement on forming consciences for faithful citizenship in November 2007.

The Novena for Faithful Citizenship runs for nine days and can be used consecutively, one day each week, for nine days prior to the election, or “in any way that works best for a community or individual,” said Rosenhauer.

The novena will be available for download until the election. Click on the headline to go to the site.

Parish School of Religion Calendar 2008-2009

Regular sessions meet on Sunday mornings from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center.

August 24 (Sunday) Sign-ups for Parish School of Religion (PSR) in the Parish Activity Center after the 9 and 11 a.m. Masses..
August 31 (Sunday) No PSR sign-ups. Labor Day holiday

September 7 (Sunday) Sign-up for Parish School of Religion in the Parish Activity Center after the 9 and 11 a.m. Masses..
September 14 (Sunday) No PSR sign-ups
September 21 Catechetical Sunday Welcome families to attend the 9 a.m. Mass in church with refreshments afterwards in the Parish Activity Center. No PSR classes
September 28 (Sunday) Opening cllasses from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center.

October 5 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
October 12 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
October 19 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
October 26 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center

November 2 Daylight Savings Time Ends. Turn clocks back one hour.
November 2 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
November 9 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
November 16 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center

November 23 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
November 30 No PSR. Class. Thanksgiving holiday

December 7 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
December 14 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
December 21 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center. Last PSR. class before Christmas holiday
December 28 No PSR Class. Christmas holiday.

2009

January 4 No PSR class. Christmas holiday
January 11 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
January 18 No PSR class. Martin Luther King holiday.
January 25 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center

February 1 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
February 8 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
February 15 No PSR. Class Presidents’ Day Holiday
February 21 (Saturday) First Reconciliation at 9 a.bm. in the church .
February 22 PSR class from 9 o 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center

March 1 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
March 7 (Saturday) Jesus Day from 9 a.m. to noon in the church
March 8 Daylight Saving Time begins. Move clocks forward one hour
March 8 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
March 15 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
March 22 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
March 29 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center

April 5 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
April 12 No PSR Class. Easter holiday
April 19 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center (No PSR foe Eighth Grade students)
April 19 Sunday Confirmation in the Church at 4 p.m. Students sign in at the PAC at 2:30 p,.m.
April 26 PSR class from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center
April 30 (Thursday) First Communion practice in the church

May 2 (Saturday) First Eucharist at 11 a.m. in the church.. Students sign in at PAC at 9:30 a.m.
May 3 Last PSR class from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Activity Center.
May 3 (Sunday) May crowning in the church at the 11 a..m. Mass.

Vatican Says 'Yahweh' is not to be pronounced

Commonly used songs with phrases such as "Yahweh, I know you are near," will need to be modified.

A note from the Vatican has reiterated a directive that the name of God revealed in the tetragrammaton YHWH is not to be pronounced in Catholic liturgy.

The June 29 Vatican message, from the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments, clarified that the name of God revealed in YHWH was not pronounced by the first Christians, following the tradition already in use.

It explained: "The venerable biblical tradition of sacred Scripture, known as the Old Testament, displays a series of divine appellations, among which is the sacred name of God revealed in a tetragrammaton YHWH. As an expression of the infinite greatness and majesty of God, it was held to be unpronounceable and hence was replaced during the reading of sacred Scripture by means of the use of an alternate name: 'Adonai,' which means 'Lord.'

"The Greek translation of the Old Testament, the so called Septuagint, dating back to the last centuries prior to the Christian era, had regularly rendered the Hebrew tetragrammaton with the Greek word Kyrios, which means 'Lord.' Since the text of the Septuagint constituted the Bible of the first generation of Greek speaking Christians, in which language all the books of the New Testament were also written, these Christians, too, from the beginning never pronounced the divine tetragrammaton."

Note: Tetragrammaton means "The Four Letters" because it comes from four Hebrew letters: Yud, Hay, Vav, Hay.

[Source: Zenit Catholic news agency]

St. Paul Gleanings: Quotes from Benedict XVI

Quotes from Pope Benedict XVI on the Apostle Paul

TEACHER, APOSTLE, AND HERALD
A teacher of the Gentiles, an apostle and a herald of Jesus Christ, this is how he [St. Paul] described himself ...

"OPEN TO THE FUTURE"
"A teacher of the Gentiles" — these words open to the future, to all peoples and all generations. For us Paul is not a figure of the past whom we remember with veneration. He is also our teacher, an Apostle and herald of Jesus Christ for us too.

"PAULINE YEAR"
Paul wants to speak to us — today. That is why I chose to establish this special "Pauline Year": in order to listen and learn today from him...

"THE LOVE OF JESUS"
Paul's faith is being struck by the love of Jesus Christ, a love that overwhelms him to his depths and transforms him.

MOTIVATED BY LOVE
... The truth that he experienced in his encounter with the Risen One was well worth the fight, persecution and suffering. But what most deeply motivated him was being loved by Jesus Christ and the desire to communicate this love to others. Paul was a man capable of loving and all of his actions and suffering can only be explained on the basis of this core sentiment.

TRUTH , LOVE, AND SUFFERING
The task of proclamation and the call to suffer for Christ's sake are inseparable.... In a world in which falsehood is powerful, the truth is paid for with suffering. His [Paul] suffering made him credible as a teacher of truth....

"ST. PAUL, PRAY FOR US!"
Let us now thank the Lord for having called Paul, making him the light to the Gentiles and the teacher of us all, and let us pray to him: "Give us even today witnesses of the Resurrection struck by the impact of your love and able to bring the light of the Gospel in our time. St. Paul, pray for us!

[Source: Homily, First Vespers, Solemnity of the Apostles Peter and Paul, June 28, 2008]

Bishops' Labor Day message looks at election

The U.S. bishops' annual Labor Day message calls the faithful to use Catholic social teaching to guide them as they cast their votes this November.

"An American Catholic Tradition" marks Labor Day, celebrated Monday, Sept. 1, and calls for "renewed vigor as we seek to build together a society that cares for its own, reaches out to the poor and vulnerable, and offers true hope to all."

Bishop William Murphy of Rockville Centre, New York, chairman of the U.S. episcopal conference's Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, issued the statement. It highlights the needs of workers, economic inequalities and the responsibilities of all citizens to help improve working conditions.

Given the coming national elections, the Labor Day statement reminds Catholics to use Church social and moral teaching to assess issues of economic justice, human life and dignity.

Click on the headline to read the full Labor Day message in a PDF file.

An earlier post on Saint Paul TODAY reported that experts at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops have drafted essays on several topics to guide voters in decision-making.

Click on election articles to go to the media site where you can read the articles.

First Friday Club to hear Vatican correspondent

John L. Allen Jr., the Vatican correspondent of the National Catholic Reporter, will speak on “Magesterium in Catholicism: Ten Forces Turning the Church Upside Down.” at the September 5 luncheon of the First Friday Club of Greater Akron.

The luncheon is at the Martin Center, 105 Fir Hill, on the University of Akron campus. Doors open at 11:15 .m.. For reservations, send a check to First Friday Club of Greater Akron, 795 Russell Ave., Akron, OH 44307. Cost of the luncheon is $14.

Allen has worked for the National Catholic Reporter since August 1997.
He is now the Vatican analyst for CNN and for National Public Radio. His work has appeared in a variety of American and European publications, including The Miami Herald, The Nation, the Irish Examiner, and Commonweal He also delivers lectures which discuss Vatican issues and his latest works.

In 2000, Allen published a controversial biography entitled Cardinal Ratzinger: The Vatican's Enforcer of the Faith. Several reviewers criticized this book for being biased, since it very often took an anti-Ratzinger stance. After some examination, Allen concluded that these criticisms were valid. As a result, in his next biography of the same man, The Rise of Benedict XVI: The Inside Story of How the Pope Was Elected and Where He Will Take the Catholic Church (2005),.

Allen grew up in Kansas. Both his grade school and his high school (Thomas More Prep-Marian) were located in Hays, Kansas and run by the Capuchin Franciscans. Allen graduated high school in 1983. He received a master's degree in religious studies from the University of Kansas. For several years, Allen taught journalism and oversaw the student-run newspaper, The Knight, at Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California.

Allen and his wife Shannon live in New York and also have a home in Rome..

For a preview of Allen’s talk, click on the headline to see his December, 2006 article in the Reporter

Catholic University collection is coming weekend

The Collection for the Catholic University in Washington, D.C. will be taken up on the weekend of 23-24 August 2008. Catholic University is the Church’s foremost symbol of Catholic higher education in this country. Founded by the United States Bishops in 1887, Catholic University continues its original charter from Pope Leo XIII by providing doctrinally-sound education to priests and religious in their formation, and to other students in many disciplines.

Please visit church tomorrow for Adoration

Please don't forget to stop by the church tomorrow for Eucharistic Adoration.

The Church is open on Tuesdays from 7:30 to 8 p.m. Please drop by if only for a few minutes.

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."

Mass for John Kozma is Wednesday

John A. Kozma, 97, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2008.

A native of Pennsylvania, Mr. Kozma had lived most of his life in Akron. He was a member of St. Paul's Catholic Parish and was a lifetime member of the Knight of Columbus, Ellet Council.

Preceded in death by his wife, Katherine D.; he is survived by daughters, Delores (Kenneth) Speicher, and Carol (William) Moody; son, John J. (Davette); brother, Nick (Mary Ann); eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. John's life will be celebrated at a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Paul's Church on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Family and friends will gather on Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home (811 Grant St.). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to HM LIfe Opportunity Services (1815 W. Market St., 44313) or to St. Paul's Grade School (433 Mission Dr., 44301.)
[Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Monday, August 18, 2008, page B5, col. 3]

Thanks to Gym cleanup crew

The St. Paul Booster Club would like to thank the following for their help with the Gym Clean Up
on Saturday

Jeannie Fausnight ..... Frankie Fausnight ...... Greg Brown
Austin Leslie............... Orion Belmont ............ Jill Joyner
Marco Colant ............. Noelle Colant .............. Gerard Colant
Jo Shoup.................... Sean Grubb.................. Rikki Horrigan
Steve Dort .................. Nathan Dort ................ Tony Bachmann
Gary Chrostowski

The next Booster Club Meeting is Sunday, August 31, at 7 p.m.

Tackle Football will begin this weekend August 23 and 24. Keep all the athletes in your prayers for a very safe and successful season

It's Happening at St. Paul

TUESDAY, August 19
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.. Church is open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Senior Prayer Hour at 1 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration.

WEDNESDAY, August 20
Bible Study at 9:15 a.m. in Room 111
Bible Study at 7 p.m. in the rectory
Liturgy & Worship Committee at 7 p.m. in Room 111

SATURDAY, August 23
Serra Club “Picnic” at St. Paul with Mass at 4:30 p.m. followed by a covered dish dinner in Boeke Hall.. Dave Nesline of St. Paul is in charge: 330-724-1436.

SUNDAY, August 24
PSR registration will be after all the Sunday Masses on August 24 and September 7 in the Parish Activity Center.
St. Paul School Open House begins at noon. All parishioners, parents friends and neighbors are invited to visit the school. Students should bring supplies, cover books, find their seats and lockers and introduce themselves to the teacher. Then students can join the ice cream social.
Ice Cream Social is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. on the rectory grounds. Ice cream and cupcakes will be provided and Jim Vondemkamp will provide music.
Hibernian Club will have luncheon after the 11 a.m. Mass in honor of the Feast of Our Lady of Knock. Luncheon will be at the club’s new home at 2000 Brown Street, across from the post office.

Cleanup crew brings back sparkle to gym

Steve Dort and son Nathan roll up a rug during gym cleanup

The ordinary parishioner might not believe the work involved in a gym cleanup, but John Jenkins Gymnasium at St,. Paul is used a lot for all sorts of sports during the week and by the CYO on Saturdays.

Fortunately some of the kids joined the elders for the three-hour cleanup on Saturday. There were rugs to sweep and then you had to roll them out of the way to clean the floor. The gym floor itself easily attracts those small stains which have to be rubbed out. The bleacher seats accumulate dirt easily and it takes a bit of scrubbing to clean them up. Also, you would be surprised at the amount of debris that collects under the bleachers.

With lots of hard work, however, the gym looks bright and clean again.

Click on the headline to see the work of some of the cleanup crew. There were others who stayed out of camera range.

Next Sunday could be busy

It has been pretty quiet around the parish, but that will end next Sunday with all kinds of activities happening all about the same time.

St. Paul School will have its regular open house at noon after the 11 a.m Mass, public school students will be registering for PSR after all the Masses and the Parish Council will stage an ice cream social starting at 1 p.m. on the rectory grounds.

And there also will be a celebration in honor of the Feast of Our Lady of Knock at the 11 a.m. Mass. It is sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and will feature Irish tenor Patrick Flynn.

PSR registration will be after all the Sunday Masses on August 24 and September 7 in the Parish Activity Center.

St. Paul School Open House begins at noon. All parishioners, parents friends and neighbors are invited to visit the school. Students should bring supplies, cover books, find their seats and lockers and introduce themselves to the teacher. Then students can join the ice cream social.

The Ice Cream Social is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. on the rectory grounds. Ice cream and cupcakes will be provided and Jim Vondemkamp will provide music.

The Hibernian Club will have luncheon after the 11 a.m. Mass at the club’s new home at 2000 Brown Street, across from the post office.

Here’s the school news:

The first day of school for Grades 1-8 is Monday, August 25. Starting date, for Kindergarten is Tuesday, August 26, (Staggered Schedule) and for Pre-school it is Tuesday, September 2.

There are still openings available in Pre-Kindergarten and other grades in the school. You can call the school office at 330-724-1253 for more information.

NEW TEACHERS
Joining the St. Paul School staff this year are Judson Hartman, a St, Paul graduate who will teach science and Grade 6, and Jeanette Chonko of Medina who will teach reading part-time in Grades 6-8. Hartman replaces Diane Zak who retired at the end of last school year.

CAFETERIA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Cafeteria Volunteers are needed from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday to help with the students, washing tables. Moms, dads, grandparents and others who would like to help are asked to call the school office at 330-724-1253.

ST. PAUL SCHOOL MARKET DAY
As the 2008-09 school year begins the St. Paul PTO Market Day program continues to move forward and grow. The program has brought in an average of over $500 a month and has helped fund many things that the PTO has purchased for the school over the years. Market Day is a monthly “food co-op” fund raising program that offers numerous food items with an average of 10 percent coming back to St. Paul School and Parish. The September Market Day order forms are available in the narthex. Please feel free to take extra forms to encourage family, friends and co-workers to place an order. If you would like to know more about Market Day, please feel free to call Tom Cullison at 330-724-3218. You can also check out market day during the open house.

The school calendar is posted below. You can also find it on the parish website

St. Paul School Calendar 2008-2009

August 13-22: First days of school for teachers
August 25 First day of school for students in grades 1-8
August 26 First day for kindergarten students (staffered schedule)
September 1 No School. Labor Day
September 2 First day of school for pre-kindergarten
October 17 No School. Teacher in-service
October 24 End of first quarter
November 3 to 13 Grade 1 Cognitive Abilities Test
November 3 Parent-teacher conferences after school
November 6 Parent-teacher conferences after school
November 7 No school
November 26, 27, 28 No school. Thanksgiving vacation
December 22 to January 2 No school. Christmas vacation
January 5 Classes resume
January 16 End of school quarter
January 19 No school. Martin Luther King Day
January 25-31 Catholic Schools Week
February 16 No school. Presidents Day
March 2 -20 Iowa tests for basic skills (grades 1-7)
March 5 Parent-teacher conferences after school.
March 6 No school
March 20 End of third quarter
April 10-17 Easter vacation.
April 20 Classes resume
May 25 No school. Memorial Day
May 29 Pre-kindergarten last day of school
June 3 Kindergarten last day of school.
June 3 Eighth Grade Gradiatopm
June 4 Final Day of School (grades 1-8)
June 5 Final day of school for teachers.

You can also find the calendar on the parish website

Girl Scouts have cookies for sale

Girl Scout Troop 360 (5th graders at St. Paul School) have some Girl Scout cookies to sell. They have Thin Mints, Caramel deLites (Samoas), and Shortbreads (Trefoils). Please call Jill at 330-785-0793. After August 24, cookies will also be available from Doreen at 330-773-2394.

Mass Intentions August 16-24

SATURDAY, August 16 Stephen of Hungary
4:30 Sunday Vigil Mary Hausman + (anniv.)

SUNDAY, August 17 Twentieth Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Betty Petroff +
11:00 Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul

MONDAY, August 18 Jane Frances de Chantal, religious
7:00 Wil Glass +
8:30 Tony Coatter +

TUESDAY, August 19 John Eudes, priest
7:00 Irene Hoover +
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

WEDNESDAY, August 20 Bernard, abbot, doctor
7:00 For Peace in the world
8:30 John Craven + & Sandra Cook +

THURSDAY, August 21 Pius X, pope
7:00 For all men and women in the military
8:30 Morning Prayer and Communion

FRIDAY, August 22 Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary
7:00 Morning Prayer and Communion
8:30 Kathryn Livigni +

SATURDAY, August 23 Rose of Lima, virgin
4:30 Sunday Vigil Ralph Tawney +
For an Increase in Vocations (Serra Club)

SUNDAY, August 24 Twenty-first Sunday Ordinary Time
9:00 Bob Nesline + (anniv.)
11:00 William Johnson + (anniv.)

Reminder: Gym cleanup is tomorrow

The St. Paul Booster Club has scheduled a cleanup at John Jenkins Gymnasium from 8 to 11 a.m. tomorrow (August 16). Volunteers are welcome and encouraged to assist

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 11:13-15,29-32

Brothers and sisters:
I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I glory in my ministry in order to make my race jealous and thus save some of them. For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?

For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable. Just as you once disobeyed God but have now received mercy because of their disobedience, so they have now disobeyed in order that, by virtue of the mercy shown to you, they too may now receive mercy. For God delivered all to disobedience,
that he might have mercy upon all.