Please pray for First Communion children

You are asked to pray for children who will be receiving their First Communion on Saturday at 10 a.m. Cards for each child are on this table in the narthex. Please pick one up and say the prayer.

The First Communion students are Conner Bender, Erin Coffman, Seth Finegan, Ian Forester, Jenna Gruic, Sydney Harrison, Aiden Harvey, Liam Harvey, Jack Hooper, Carolyn Inglis, Kalob Jordan, Tara Lanham, Matthew Limas, Jesse Matusicky, Jason McBryer, Hannah McGraw, Madelynn Misanko, Alyson Misenelter, Joseph Moran, Matthew Naccari, Elora Nicholas, Joshua Niinisto, Matthew Pramuka, Benjamin Pepper, Edgar Rosales, Daysi Sandoval, Alexis Shaffer, Mary Claire Smitt and Jordan Teffner

265 attend Spectacular on Friday

Crowd of diners at Guy's Party Center for Spectacular

A capacity crowd of 265 attended the Spring Spectacular on Friday evening at Guy's Party Center. They were treated to cocktails and steak dinner. There were more than 200 items to bid on. Proceeds from the event go to the St Paul School Endowment Trust to help with tuition for students. Proceeds should exceed $20,000

Mary Markowski won the I-pad that was one of the raffle items. She has children attending St. Paul School..

Nicole Podobnik won the 50/50 split the pot of $540. She also won the apron (photo at right) with over $175 in gift cards and certificates.

Marie Kammer, Kelly Dodson and Todd and Lori Wammes were seated at the table which won the $600 on the table 50/50.

Fr Ralph Thomas opened the night with comments. Among those attending was Mayor Don Plusquellic.

This was the final year for Kim Kuhn and Dana Coffman, longtime co-chairs of the Spectacular, who are resigning.

Click here to see Spectacular photos by Tony DiDonato

'Reflection for Women' is May 7

Sister Margaret Mach, SC, will be at Nativity of the Lord Jesus Parish on Saturday, May 7, to present an ":Afternoon of Reflection for Women." This is a cluster program for all women in parishes in the Summit South 6 Cluster.

Refreshments with registration will be offered at 12:30 p.m. and the program will close at 4 p.m. A free will offering will be accepted.

Sister Margaret is an experienced spiritual director and has given several
presentations in the Cleveland Diocese.

Nativity Church at 2425 Myersville Rd. in Springfield Twp. is located at the corner of Killian and Myersville Roads

Gallery to display Deacon Lonteen's art

The Heritage Studio and Gallery in Canal Fulton will present the work of Deacon Frank Lonteen. The opening reception will be Friday, May 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. Work will be displayed through May 30. The gallery is located at 2381 Locust St., Canal Fulton. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. For more information, call 330-854-9209.

Shown here is a watercolor of Mother Teresa done in 2004.

Bishop Lennon to celebrate Red Mass

Bishop Richard G. Lennon will celebrate the “Red Mass” in Summit County on Friday [May 6] at noon at St/ Bernard-St. Mary Church. This is a time to pray for those in the legal and law enforcement professions. It is also the occasion for the annual Sir Thomas More Award—which this year is being given to Akron Attorney Thomas Knoll. Parking is available for free in the “Polsky Deck.

Knoll is the 35th recipient. The first award having been given in 1978 to Judge Arthur Doyle. Last year the award was given to former Ohio Supreme Court Justice and Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals, the Honorable Deborah Cook.

Knoll as been honored by the Greater Akron Chamber with the H. Peter Burg Economic Development and Leadership Award, by the Great Trail Council with the Boy Scouts of America Community Service Award and by the Erie County Chamber of Commerce Gallery of Achievers. This year Tom is also privileged to serve as Honorary Chair of the 2011 Bridgestone Invitational Golf Tournament, an event that has raised more than $19 million dollars for charities throughout Northeast Ohio.

Since coming to Akron in 1965, Tom has served the community as a volunteer on the Akron Community Foundation, the Akron Bar Association (serving as its President in 1985-86), Big Brothers Big Sisters of Summit and Medina Counties, Goodwill Industries, Habitat for Humanity, Northern Ohio Golf Charities, Summa Health System where he served as board chair for seven years, The First Tee of Akron and The University of Akron Foundation.

In recognition of his corporate law practice, Knoll has been named to Best Lawyers in America for the last 15 years. In 2010, the publication honored him as “Lawyer of the Year” in Corporate Law.

Knoll co-founded Stark & Knoll Co., L.P.A. in 1955 to focus on serving the needs of small and medium sized business clients. For more than 45 years,

Plant and Flower Sale is May 20-22

The St. Paul  Plant and Flower Sale will be Friday through Sunday, May 20-22, in the South Parking Lot.  

Information listed in this weekend's church bulletin is incorrect because the sale has been moved to one week later.

Sale hours have been extended to noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.
 
Please consider donating any annuals or perennials you may divide up or cannot use. Also needed are any usable garden tools that you no longer need or want. Donations may be dropped off Thursday, May 19, from noon to 6 p.m. 

Questions, call Ron McAvoy at 330-773-7389 or Maggie Walker 330-808-3045.

Ladies Guild plans May crowning, rummage sale

St. Paul Ladies Guild will have its annual May Crowning and Rosary at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 12, in the church.  A short business meeting with refreshments will follow in the Parish Activity Center.  All ladies of the parish are welcome to join.

Ladies Guild members also are being urged to start sorting through household items and clothing for the rummage sale on June 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on June 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Drop-off dates for items will be May 31, June 2, 7 and 9 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center.

U.S. is biggest source of global pollution

Scientists worldwide have arrived at consensus that the earth is warming due to atmospheric pollution and that human actions are causing global warming (aka climate change). The United States is the largest source of global warming pollution. Although Americans make up just 4% of the world's population, we produce 25% of the carbon dioxide pollution from fossel-fuel burning. The United States emits more carbon dioxide than China, India and Japan combined. China and India are quickly catching up, but as the world's top developer of new technologies, the US is well positioned to take the leadership role in solving this global problem. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) unequivocally agrees that the poor throughout the world will be most affected by the disastrous effects of global warming unless this trend is halted. Catholic Social Teaching instructs us to put the
needs of the poor and vulnerable first. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with God and all of His creation. To learn more
about this issue and what you can do to make a difference v i s i t
w w w . e a r t h o b s e r v a t o r y . n a s a . g o v , www.climatecrisis.net, and www.stopglobalwarming.org.

Benedict XVI's prayer intentions for May

Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for May is: "That those working in communication media may respect the truth, solidarity, and dignity of all people ".

His mission intention is: "That the Lord may help the Church in China persevere in fidelity to the Gospel and grow in unity".

Frst Friday Club to hear Fr. Wicks

The Rev. Fr. W. Jared Wicks, S.J., Theologian and Writer in Residence at John Carroll University. will speak on "Joseph Ratzinger Contributing to Vatican II" at the First Friday Club luncheon at noon Friday, May 13, at the Martin Center on the University of Akron campus, 105 Fir Hill. The buffet opens at 11:30 a.m. For reservations, send a check for $14 to the First Friday Club of Greater Akron (FFC of GA), 795 Russell Avenue, Akron, OH 44307. For further information, call 330-535-7668.

Saint Matthew seeks PSR director

Saint Matthew Church is taking applications for the position of Director of Religious Education. This position includes organization and direction of the weekly PSR program; sacramental preparation of children for Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation; weekly “Children’s’ Liturgy of the Word”; the Rite of Christian Initiation of Children; and Vacation Bible School. Recruitment and direction of volunteers is essential, and emphasis on training for all catechists according to Diocesan guidelines. A part-time secretary assists in the Religious Education Office. Benefits available; position open July 1. Please contact the pastor, Father Michael Williamson, at 330-733-9944.

Regina Caeli sung in place of Angelus

The Regina Caeli (Queen of Heaven) is recited, in place of the Angelus, during the Easter Season from Holy Saturday through Pentecost Sunday.

Queen of Heaven, Rejoice! Alleluia.
For he whom you were worthy to bear, Alleluia.
Has risen, as he foretold, Alleluia.
Pray for us to God, Alleluia.

Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, Alleluia.
For the Lord has indeed risen, Alleluia.

God our Father,
you give joy to the world by the resurrection of your Son,
our Lord Jesus Christ.

Through the prayers of his mother,
the Virgin Mary, bring us to the happiness of eternal life.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

EWTN to cover Beatification & Divine Mercy

EWTN will cover the beatification of the late Pope John Paul II and also the Divine Mercy celebration at Stockbridge, Massachusett.

EWTN's Raymond Arroyo will anchor the beatification from Rome. Joining him for analysis and commentary will be Knights of Columbus Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, Fr. Raymond J. de Souza, and EWTN Rome Bureau Chief Joan Lewis.

Vatican events include:

• Vigil in Honor of the Beatification of Pope John Paul II airs at 1:30 p.m. ET (live), Saturday, April 30, with an encore at 8 p.m. ET, Saturday, April 30.

• Beatification of Pope John Paul II: airs at 2:30 a.m. (live), Sunday, May 1, with encores at 8 p.m. ET, Sunday., May 1, 1 p.m. ET, Monday., May 2, and 4 p.m. ET, Saturday, May 7.

• Mass of Thanksgiving in Honor of the Beatification of Pope John Paul II airs 4:30 a.m. ET (live), Monday, May 2, with an encore at 5:30 p.m. ET, Monday, May 2.

• Check EWTN's website (www.ewtn.com) for other related programs including a special "World Over" from Rome at 8 p.m. ET, Thursday, April 28, with encores at 5 p.m. ET, Sunday., May 1, and 10 a.m. ET, Monday, May 2.


Mass and Celebration of Divine Mercy from Stockbridge, MA (Live)
The celebration of the Solemn Mass of Divine Mercy Sunday, live from the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA. on Sunday. May 1 at 1 p.m. and Monday. May 2 at 1 a.m.

Mass for David Stull Sr. is Friday

David A. Stull, Sr. ``Frosty', 67, passed away at Summa's Palliative Care on April 26, 2011, surrounded by his family.

He was a graduate of St. Bernard Elementary School and a 1961 graduate of Central High School. He was employed for most of his career by Good Supply in Akron. He enjoyed golf and bowling and all things sports.

David was the second son of his deceased parents, Bernard and Dolores Stull. He is survived by his children, David A. Stull, Jr. of Akron, Douglas E. Stull of Kent, and Heather (Scott) Roberts of New Jersey; and their mother, Carol Leigh; brothers, Bernard L. (Maribeth) Stull, Jr., Michael D. (Kathleen) Stull, both of Akron; grandchildren, David Joseph Stull and Kaleigh Roberts; and many other close relatives.

A prayer service will be held Friday, 9:45 a.m. at NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St., Akron. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Maison Aine, Stow or Alcoholics Anonymous.

To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.NewcomerAkron.com. (NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, 330-784-3334)
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Thursday, April 28, 2011, page B5, col;. 6]

Steven Cookro dies at 38

Steven L. Cookro, 38, passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2011.

He was born in Akron, graduated from Hoban High School and attended St. Paul Catholic Church. Steven was employed by Health Care Resolution Services. He enjoyed fishing, sports--especially golf, live music and hanging out with his friends.

He is survived by his parents, Robert J. and Rickie L. (Brandt); brothers, Christopher and Adam and his son, Austin and his mother, Ashley; grandparents, Marion Brandt and Roland Cookro; aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, 10 a.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel, 1990 S. Main St. in Akron. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Association . (Anthony Funeral Homes, 330-724-1281, www.anthonyfh.com)

[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Thursday, April 28, 2011. page B4, col. 4 ]

Get your car washed

Just a reminder...

8th Grade Car Wash

this Saturday, April 30

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

in the South (PAC) parking lot

Booklet for John Paul beatification Sunday

Pope Benedict XVI will celebrate John Paul's Mass of Beatification on Divine Mercy Sunday, an observance instituted by the late pontiff. Tens of thousands of worships are expected in St. Peter's Square and millions will watch from around the world.

The Diocese of Cleveland has compiled a 12-page commemorative booklet to honor the life of John Paul II.

You can download a copy from our file storage area.

Download the file

Divine Mercy Sunday at St. Paul May 1

St. Paul will celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday this coming Sunday (May 1) at 1:45 p.m. The service will begin with with Benediction. There will be quiet prayer time, Scripture reading, praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet, Devotions and Litany and prayerful music.

The Feast is dedicated to the Devotion to the Divine Mercy and is celebrated on the first Sunday following Easter. The feast was established by the late Pope John Paul on April 30, 2000 on the occasion of Blessed Sister Faustina’s canonization.

(Pope John Paul coincidentally died on the vigil of the Divine Mercy Sunday in 2005)

Devotion to Jesus as The Divine Mercy is based on the writings of Saint Faustina Kowalska, an uneducated Polish nun who, in obedience to her spiritual director, wrote a diary of about 600 pages recording the revelations she received about God's mercy. Even before her death in 1938, the devotion to The Divine Mercy had begun to spread.

One of the most well-known and largest Divine Mercy Sunday celebrations in the country is at the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, Mass. The service attracts between 15,000 and 20,000 and is staffed by 500 to 600 volunteers.

The feast was celebrated last year on April 29 in the Summit South 76 Cluster at Queen of Heaven parish.

Would you like to know how to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet to be prepared for the service? Click here to download a nice PDF file in our online storage area you can download and print out. The file prints on one 11/1/2 by 8 inch (horizontal page) which can be folded into a neat tri-fold you can carry with you. The prayer instructions also will be provided at the service on Sunday

Check out the shrine in Stockbridge

Choir at the 11:30 Easter Sunday Mass

The choir that sang the beautiful hymns at the 11:30 Mass. The choir is directed by Mrs Pat Rinella.

[Photo by Tony DiDonato]

Children go up on altar after Mass

The pastor, the Rev. Ralph Thomas, invited children up on the altar after the 11:30 Mass. [Photo by Tony DiDonato]

Some Easter Sunday highlights

Above are Dave and Patty Van Pelt next to the cross in the narthex and Tom Harvey and sons Aiden, Tommy, and Ethan who brought up the gifts.

Larry and Carol Eich got holy water from the basin in the narthex.


[Photos by Tony DiDonato]

Easter is a special day for families

Easter is a special day for families.

At top left is Grandfather Rex Godfrey surrounded by Alex, Mary Claire, Gracie, Joey, and Tammy Walter.

At top right are Mike and Teresa Roush with daughters Caroline, Hannah, and Clara.

At right are Ron and Ellen McAvoy with their grandchildren

[Photos by Tony DiDonato]

Wishing you a blessed Easter

Beautiful church awaits you for Easter Sunday

The sanctuary is decorated with flowers for Easter and the Risen Christ is in place on the altar for the holiest of days.

In the narthex is a cross bedecked with flowers to replace the cross that was there with prayer pettitions during Lent. Those petitions were taken from the cross and burned after the Good Friday Mass.

Fr. Matt blesses Easter food baskets

Large number of baskets brought to altar for blessing

The Rev. Fr. Matt Ischay blesses food baskets. With their baskets are Noelle Leonelli, 3, daughter of Mary and Eric Leonelli, and Cory Fickert, son of Becky and David Fickert.

Congratulations to our newly baptized

CONGRATULATIONS AND BLESSINGS TO

Helena Lee Albert
Born September 4, 1996
Baptized January 2, 2011
Daughter of Brian Derrick and Theresa Albert

Alaina Nichole Weingart
Born August 19, 2010
Baptized March 13, 2011
Daughter of Jacob and Natalie Weingart

Olive Michelle McInturf
Born December 2, 2010
Baptized 03/20/2011
Daughter of Tyler and Robin McInturf

Dylan Robert Hill
Born January 11, 2011
Baptized March 20, 2011
Son of Daniel and Julie Hill

Easter flower donations through April 17

Here is a list of donors to the Easter flower fund as of April 17. Donors are listed in bold type followed by those in whose memory the donation was made.


-------------- Steven Evanicki
Adam, Paula, Bobby (Judi) & Kenny(Judy) Bob & Liz Adam
Albertson, Wade,Deanna,Adam,Melissa, & Andrew Jack Albertson
Alchier, Carol, John, Jean & Michael Steve & Mathilda Alchier
Armbruster, Caryn Walter & Frances Armbruster & Ken Lichty
Arnold, Diane & Family Tim Arnold and Richard & Josephine Church
Barta, Ashley & Brittany Jack Barta & Sue Knapp
Barta, Jean Jack Barta & Susie Knapp
Bearer, Paul & Jeanne Margie & Ed and Margaret & Elmer
Bereider, Mary Gruska Family
Biller, Frances Biller Family
Bojo, Joe Bojo, Headley, Kemp Families & Jean Thomas
Booth, Steve & Patty Ilcheson Family
Bralek, Irene Joseph Bralek
Briskey, Stephen & Ann Barbara Westover
Broadbent Family Florence Broadbent
Broadbent Family Tonya Broadbent
Brodbeck, Robert A. Carol Brodbeck
Bruce, Linda Katie Smith & Gregory Smith
Burkhardt, Betty Robert Burkhardt
Casalinuovo, John & Denise Deceased Members of Borisuk & Casalinuovo Families
Casenhiser, Jim & Sally Tawney, Zachardy, Casenhiser & Burrell Families
Charney, George & Bernice Anna Bash, Mary Sonneborn & Mary Ellen Kavanshansky
Christner Family Charles & Dorothy Howe and William & Marjorie Christner
Cianciola Family Bessie & Joe Cianciola
Ciborek, Elizabeth Anthony Ciborek
Colant, Gerard, Jo, Noelle & Marco Colant, Ginn, Shoup & Neher Families
Colant, Noelle Noel Dukeman
Coughlin, Carol & Dick Catherine Lastocy & Mary Koloniar
Crouse Family T. R. Evans, Ann Evans, Joe Conjerti, Sr. & Edward Fogarty
Daley, Robin Daley & Rehs Families
DelMonte, Randy & Bonnie DelMonte & Green Families
DiDonato, Mary DiDonato Family and Cleo Furry
DiDonato, Tony & Jane DiDonato and Kostelny Families
Doherty, Jere Anne & Kathleen Doherty
Drexler, Kathryn Drexler Family
Drongoski, Charles & Rita Jodie Reed
Duarte, Steven & Kathleen Agnes Moranz
Dube, Eileen Patrick & Hazel McAleese
Dunn, Eileen Martha & Christian Schafer
Durbin, Jim, Diane & James Clayton Durbin and Belvin Trogdon
Eich, Larry & Carol Steve & Rose Verko
Erotas, Jean James Erotas
Estel, Harriet E. Chester Estel, Sr.
Fausnight, Jeanie Vincent Delagrange
Ferenczi, Virginia Allison and John Ferenczi
Fickert, Paul & Irene John & Helen Vasko
Fitzgerald, Mary Fitzgerald Family
Gmerek, Patti Anna & Harry Smerekanich
Harland, Janet William E. Ringkor
Harrigal, Dorothy John Harrigal & Donna Recklaw
Hartman, Pat Walt Hartman
Harvey Family Thomas F. Harvey & John J. Kernan
Hausch Family Ann Zimmerman
Hillman, Rose M. & Bob John & Mary Blatney and Ethel Hillman
Hodnichak, George Mary Hodnichak
Hogue, Patty & Kenny Deceased of Hogue & Pillitiere Families
Holbein Family & Friends Steve Holbein
Ischay, Fr. Matthew Harry & Anne Ischay, Sam Fleming & David Thiessen
Jubin, Rita Francis & Helen Hardacre
Keefer, Arthur & Barbara Ray & Katie Hager
Kelly, George & Thomas, Kaitlin Susan Taylor
Klein, Ray & Lucille Deceased of Klein & Lux Families
Kocsis, Agnes Edward Kocsis
Kowal, Mike & Nick Mike & Pauline Kowal
Lancianese, Frank & Nance Grandma Ciccolini
Lash, David Irene Lash
Liggett, Harry Helen Liggett
Lupica, Frances Salvatore & Josephine Lupica and Jack & Joseph Lupica
Magyar, Helen Ted Magyar & Florence Fresh
Marcius, Elizabeth Charles Yenchik & Family
Marcius, Joanne Joseph Marcius
Martin, Jim & Rose Hilda Knapp
McAvoy, Ellen & Ron Ost & McAvoy Family
McGough, John Paul & Dorothy McGough
Merlo, Paul & Karen Mary Snader & Sue Merlo
Mickey Mom, Dad & Betty
Mileski, Art & Rosemary Gersna & Mileski Families
Muha, Rosemarie Deceased of the Muha Family & Noel Dukeman
Muncey, Peggy Cheryl Lawson
Muntean Family Alma Lewis & Tammy Hutcherson
Nesline, Dave & Terry Bob & Bette Nesline and Bill Wallenhorst
O’Neil, Bev & John and Jerry Matthews Beverly Matthews
Pagac, Betty Elizabeth & Justin Pagac and Sister Alice Marie VSC
Pappano, Joe & Vi Kate & Ben Pecora and Ann & Roxy Pappano
Pramuka, Mark, Marianne, Matt & Anna Barb & Frank Pramuka
Rachel, Bob & Rose Marie Steve & Matilda Rachel and Joseph & Sophia Sabo
Raso, Lucy & Ray In Honor of Thomas Frable
Richard, Hank & Judy Klodt & Richard Families
Riegler, Anne Riegler, Weinand & Colley Families
Rinella, Dick & Pat Rinella & Danielak Family
Ringkor, Julia William Ringkor
Robinson, Bob & Micki James Alvis Ely and Arthur & Betty Robinson
Rohner, James & Family William M. Rohner
Roosa, Angela Pulido Family
Roosa, Bob & Angie Pulido & Roosa Family
Santoferraro, C. & J. D. & A. Santoferraro
Schaefer, Kenny & Debbie Schaerfer-Sehm Family
Seminaroti, Kathy Joseph Lorenzo
Shoup, Ann Neher Shoup & Neher Families
Spiros, Marilyn Ferenczi & DiGiroloma Families
Stacy, Mary Lou Tinsley & Stacy Families
Stanik, Susie Charles Nixon
Tonkovich, Roberta Janine S. Lee
Vaughan, Rita Miller & Vaughan Families
Vavro, Rosemary Steve J. Vavro, Jr.
Vondemkamp, Jim & Jean McGrath & Vondemkamp Families
Welch, Dave, Cris, David & Melissa Welch, Hillman & Blatney Families
Westenbarger, Pat & Children Westenbarger and Seman Families
Wieclaw, Wally & Sharon Deceased of the Wieclaw Family
Woofter, John, Marilyn, Megan & Andrew Robert & Lillian Tilton
Zellefrow, Bob & Rita Ed & Joan Clark

Upcoming events listed in bulletin

‘Caring and Sharing’ session is Monday
A "Caring and Sharing" session for those who are divorced, separated or widowed will be held on Monday, April 25, from 7:30 to 9 p.mm at Immaculate Heart of Mary's Convent Building, 1945 Portage Trail in Cuyahoga Falls. Marlene Maruna, a licensed independent social worker, will facilitate this session. This event is open at no charge to people of all faiths. For information call Frank 330-801-0527 or Sharon 330-612-3635.

Learning Life’s Lessons is program topic
Patricia Daw, auditor at the Diocesan Tribunal, will speak on the topic, “The Marriage Prism: Learning Life's Lessons” at the next gathering, Tuesday, May 3, at 7
p.m., at Blessed Trinity Church (formerly St. Martha) 300 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron. Following Pat's presentation,there will be an opportunity for small group discussion,
including time for individual conversations with her. For more information please contact Patricia Flaherty at pflaherty@dioceseofcleveland.org, or 330.773.7621 or visit www.dioceseofcleveland.org/summit.

Imagine a world where peace prevailed

May the Peace of Christ be with all of us on this holiest of days, Easter Sunday: Imagine a nation where other nations are not demonized to justify our militarism. Imagine a world where differences are solved by force of character rather than force of arms. Imagine a world where the Peace of Christ, with its prophetic honesty and reckless compassion and nonviolent resistance to evil is the rule of the country. Peacemaking is not Christian romanticism. Peacemaking is Christian mission. Violence is gettingus nowhere. Christian spirituality calls us beyond all of that by demanding personal dignity and mutual respect
and listening. Peace is a byproduct of humility - the opposite of pride - and humility is always honest; it is never arrogant, never pushy, never destructive. Authentic peace
is founded on justice, respecting and valuing the other. Christian peacemaking is, simply, a requirement of our faith. (Taken from Wisdom Distilled from the Daily by Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB)

"It isn't enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn't enough to believe in it. One must work at it." Eleanor Roosevelt

Good Friday: Seven Last Words

This authentic crown of thorns from the Holy Land was displayed in the church entry on
Good Friday. There was a meditation on the Seven Last Words of Christ.

Holy Thursday at Cathedral

The Mass of the Lord's Supper which was celebrated on Thursday of Holy Week is the beginning of the three most solmen days on the Church's calendar...called...the sacred Triduum (which means 3 days).

The Triduum is celebrated as one continuous liturgy and culminates on the Vigil of Easter, Holy Saturday night, when new members are baptized and initiated in the Church.

On Holy Thursday the Church commemorates the farewell supper of Jesus as he instituted the Eucharist (Holy Communion).

The principal Mass at the Cathedral of St. John included the ceremonial foot washing by the celebrant, Most Rev. Richard Lennon, Bishop of Cleveland, in remembrance of the example Jesus set---and instructed his apostles to follow---as an act of humility.

Holy Thursday is also known as "Maundy Thursday" in reference to the "Maundatum" which is the command given by Jesus to his apostles when washing their feet, "What I have done, you must also do."

Holy Thursday at St. Paul

Incensing the Eucharist which was taken to the Parish Activity Center after Mass is the pastor, the Rev. Fr. Ralph Thomas, assisted by the Rev. Fr. James Berardi and the Rev. Fr. Matt Ischay

An Impressive Holy Thursday Mass included the washing of feet by 12 parishioners seated on folding chairs in front of the altar whose feet were first washed by the pastor, the Rev. Fr. Ralph Thomas, and the Rev. Fr. Matt Ischay. Included as part of the liturgy was a commitment to the parish by first the priests and then by the parishioners. The Eucharist was taken in procession after the Mass to the Parish Activity Center for adoration.


Ministries leader Terry Nesline washes feet of Mary Claire Smith, 8, daughter of Don and Keri Smith

See other Holy Thursday photos

Chrism Mass at Cathedral

Tuesday evening, the "Chrism" Mass, a longstanding Holy Week tradition in the Catholic Church and the Diocese of Cleveland served as a gathering time for the priests of the Diocese to prayerfully observe this most sacred time on the Church Calendar. Cleveland Bishop, Most Rev. Richard Lennon, was the chief celebrant along with the priests of the diocese.

The chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balsam (or balm) which is blessed by the Bishop. The holy oil is then used for various sacramental administrations in the parish churches, all this, related to Jesus Christ---The Anointed One---who is the source for all the sacraments of the Catholic Faith.

Please urge expansion of school vouchers

Take Action:
Tell Gov. Kasich to expand school vouchers

Supporters of Catholic Schools are urging Governor John Kasich to expand school vouchers. If the Governor listens to our concerns, it could help St. Paul School as well as all Catholic schools immensely, according to principal Robert Brodbeck.

It only takes a few minutes to get our message to the Governor and the Ohio Legislature.

The Ohio House Finance Committee is meeting this week to discuss what changes are needed to our state's educational system. We need to send a message that the state's voucher program should be significantly expanded. We know that opponents of education reform are bombarding the offices of the governor and state legislators with anti-school choice messages, so it is essential that they hear from you today.

Click here to take action immediately. It's free and takes just two minutes

Learning about orchestra at the Civic

Mrs. Suzanna Ingliss' first graders enjoyed their field trip to the Civic Theatre to Meet the Orchestra. The University of Akron Symphony Orchestra demonstrated the four parts of the orchestra and many of the individual instruments, before putting them all together. Students had a great time visiting the historic theater and listening to the wonderful music.

[Photos by Suzane Ingliss]

First graders celebrate Earth Day

Mrs. Suzanne Ingliss’ first grade students designed these T-shirts on computer to help celebrate Earth Day.

Earth Day (April 22) is a day that is intended to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's natural environment. The class spent a couple of weeks learning about conservation and recycling (coordinating with the Lent 4.5 program).

Student designs show the beauty of God's creation in nature with plants, animals and our planet's part in the solar system.

[Photos by Mrs. Ingliss]

Beacon Journal reports on Fr. Sam case

Two stories on page one of the Akron Beacon Journal today provide updates on the Rev. Fr. Samuel Ciccolini and Interval Brotherhood Home.

Federal prosecutors are criticizing a judge for the sentence he gave Fr, Ciccolini last year. The U.S. Attorney’s office said U.S. District Judge James Gwin didn't have the authority to order the well-known priest to pay $3.5 million in restitution to the Interval Brotherhood Home Foundation, and the one-day prison sentence for banking and income tax crimes unrelated to the foundation wasn't enough. The average sentence nationwide for similar tax offenses was 22.4 months, the appeal says.

Read the story

A new forensic audit released Wednesday didn't find any misappropriation of public money or fraud at the Interval Brotherhood Home. The taxpayer-supported alcohol and drug treatment center has been under public scrutiny since last year when its former leader, the Rev. Samuel Ciccolini, pleaded guilty to personal banking and income tax crimes.

''The forensic audit of the IBH books and the conclusions reached by the auditors weren't unexpected,'' IBH board member Tom Koch said. ''We thought all along our IBH finances were sound and there was no misappropriation of funds.

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Scenes after the Mass on Sunday

Bake sale
in narthex
nets $1,614

Millie Hilton buys pastries in the narthex from Lucy Raso. All the goodies were sold. The Ladies Guild made $1,614 from the bake sale. thanks to all who helped in any way to make it a success.







Dorothy Kalstrom selects palms from the table. Walking out with theirs are
Ann Bialy with sister-in-law Ann Cassell. Both are long-time parishoners.

Barbara Smith gets her blood pressure checked by Mary DiDonato RN in the Parish Activity Center after the 9:30 Mass. At right, Gene pours a cup of coffee for Terri DeGeorge. Gene is in charge of the coffee after the Sunday masses.

Left: Bea Ruegg with son David and Cheryl after the Mass. Right: Mothers Natalie Weingart, Aali Franz, and Aangie Stevens surround their children Lena Franz, Alaina Weingart, Josey Stevens and Jilly Ann Stevens.

[Photos by Tony DiDonato]

Palm Sunday procession at St. Paul

A procession of children carrying palms enters the church behind a Hallelujah banner at the 9:30 a.m. Mass at St. Paul Church.

Click here to see more photos of the procession and blessing of palms.

Lent 4.5: Gratitude and Genersity

Gratitude and Generosity will be the topic for the Lent 4.5 discussion at 7 p.m. Monday in the Parish Activity Center. The seven-week program called Lent 4.5 Christian Simplicity considers practical ways to abstain from habits and choices that harm the earth.

The ''4.5'' in the title refers to the number of acres each person on Earth would receive if it were divided equally among all people. Based on a measuring tool called Global Footprint, people in the United States use an average 22.3 acres to support their lifestyle.

For suggestions on how you can show gratitude and generosity, click on the page at upper left titled Lent 4.5: Gratitude and Generosity.

Check Holy Week schedule

Click on Holy Week Schedule under Pages at left for a Holy Week schedule

Scene on Saturday at St. Paul

Mary Wicklund is selecting one of the delicious pastries on sale today and at the Sunday masses. Stop by and help the Ladies Guild sell out. The Easter lamb cake is among the goodies

Lisa Mueller, Barbara Naragon, Saleen Linhar ( a PSR student) and Susie Gatian accept and prepared food for the Palm Sunday dinner at the Peter Maurin Center. They will accept food and money donations Sunday morning.

The tulips are up despite the cool damp weather. The Thomas Breiding Landscape Co cleaned out the flower beds and did the spring cleanup this week. [Photos by Tony DiDonato]

There's a ministry that needs your help

Do you feel like youl could have done a little bit more this Lent? There are more than 30 different ministries at St, Paul that could use your help. Here are a few:

Visiting our elderly parishioners
St. Paul is looking for cheerful, compassionate individuals who are willing to volunteer to visit our parishioners in one nursing home each month. Visits may be made on the day of your choosing and nursing homes are in and around the area. If you are interested in this worthwhile ministry, and would like more information, please call Terry Nesline 330 -724-1263.

Become a Hospice volunteer
Learn how to support families of Hospice patients and bring comfort to the patients themselves. Speakers trained in Hospice and Bereavement Services will speak to you on ways to bring comfort and peace to the patients and families of Hospice of Visiting Nurse Service. Sign up now for training classes scheduled for May 10 and May 17. You may choose the daytime class from noon to 4 p.m. or the evening class from 5 to 9 p.m. You must attend both sessions for a total of 8 hours of classroom training. All sessions held at Hospice of VNS Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center on Ridgewood Road in Akron. Registration deadline is May 3 and there is no fee. Call Terri DeGeorge at 330-668-4650 or 1-800-335-1455, ext. 4650.

Knights of Columbus callng on young men 10-17
The Knights of Columbus South Akron Council 3410 announces the reinstatement of The Columbian Squires Program, open to all Catholic young men between the ages of 10 and 17. The purpose of the Columbian Squires: To mentor young men of character to help and serve the Church and community. For information call the K of C at 330-773-3410.

Sorrowful Mothers help the grieving
Anyone who has attended a funeral luncheon prepared by the St. Paul Sorrowful Mothers knows that it is a ministry of love. Any member of St. Paul Parish, new or longstanding is invited to join the Sorrowful Mother Ministry. It simply involves preparing any covered dish you prefer when called by a group leader. It means so much to the grieving family For information call Rosemary 330-724-9291.

Parish School of Religion needs help
Please consider sharing your faith with the children of St. Paul Parish. Requirements: A love of Jesus and the willingness to share that love of the Catholic Faith with others. You bring the enthusiasm and we will provide the information you need to pass on to our St. Paul Community. There are a variety of opportunities for you as a Catechist or Catechist Assistant with elementary students. Please call the Religious Education Office 330- 724-9311. Thanks, Shelly Hertzig.

Noted in the bulletin

Collect books, CDs for June book sale.
Start saving books, magazines, CDs, DVDs for the St. Paul Used Book Sale. Prices are low and bargains are high! Call Ron McAvoy 330-773-7389 if you have any questions. Watch the bulletin for more details.

Sign up for Wednesday Commemoration Meal
Sign up now for the St. Paul Parish Commemoration Meal on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. in Boeke Hall. A delicious meal will be served including beverage for no cost. Those attending may bring a dessert to share if desired. It’s important to sign up so we know how much to prepare. Questions, call Renee Amedeo 330-644-3011.

No PSR for next two Sundays
There will be no PSR classe on Palm Sunday, April 17 and Easter Sunday, April 24. Students will gather in the Parish Acdtvity Cener following the 9:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 1,.for the last PSR session. Any questions, call the Religious Education Office 330-724-9311.

Divine Mercy Sunday at St Paul on May 1
Please join us Sunday, May 1, at 1:45 p.m. for our Divine Mercy Sunday Service. We will begin with Benediction. There will be quiet prayer time, Scripture reading, praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet, Devotions and Litany and prayerful music

'Thank You' from mission team

Dear St. Paul Parishioners,
We want to thank each of you again for your wonderful spirit, faith, goodness and generosity (including financial) expressed in The Resilient Life Mission we facilitated at St. Paul recently. And wow—what great hospitality, delicious food, and delightful fellowship we experienced with you. Both of us consider being at your parish a homecoming for two Akron boys who grew up in a wonderful town. We pray that you may continue to be vital in your most important mission and ministry in daily life and work. Please pray for us as we reach out ot more workplaces and communities. We can be reached on our website, www.h2hc.org and email info@h2hc.org and our phone number is 330-434-3278. Also we have many Catholic Christian resources at www.livingfaithatwork.org.
God Bless—Fr. Norm Douglas and Larry Vuillemin

Bill introduced to end Ohio death penalty

There is exciting news about the status of the Death Penalty in Ohio. Follow the lead of other states, Ohio Representatives Ted Celeste of Columbus and Nickie Antonio of Cleveland plan to introduce the "Execute Justice Not People" Bill in the Ohio Statehouse to abolish the Death Penalty in Ohio. There is no more final punishment than death -- for this reason, the United States Supreme Court ruled long ago that death is different. It requires a level of care and scrutiny far beyond that expected of any other aspect of our nation's criminal justice system. As Catholics, we reject the death penalty because we believe that all persons are sacred and that it is our duty to protect all life. Many a recent study has shown that the cost of the carrying out a Death Penalty sentence far exceeds that of life imprisonment and statistics show that it has not been an effective deterrent to violent crimes. For these reasons and many others, Ohio should suspend executions and commission a thorough and balanced study on our state's death penalty. Please join your fellow parishioners in the narthex after Good Friday services to add your name to the list of faithful calling for a Moratorium on the Death Penalty. There is no better day than Good Friday to address this issue; Jesus, himself, was a Death Penalty victim. Please keep all those on death row in your prayers.

Godfather 4 opens April 29

Click on poster to enlarge for better view

Easter Fire and Water

[Reprinted from bulletin]

The Easter Vigil ceremonies on Holy Saturday night highlight two basic elements of nature, fire and water. The “flame” struck from flint—ignites the Paschal Candle, reminding us of Jesus, Resurrected in glory. He is the Light for all of us and all the world. Let us invite His Light to those dark spaces in us and around us that need healing, hope and encouragement.

Participants at the Vigil will hold a lighted candle, its light taken from the Paschal Candle, while the Celebrant sings Of this night Scripture says, “The night will be as clear as day, it will become my light, my joy...May Christ, the Morning Star, who came back from the dead, shed his peaceful light in all humankind.

There is a cosmic story of water—the story that everything in the Universe begins with hydrogen. We can call water “holy” for the sacred scriptures overflow with stories of water.

In our Parish Lenten Series 4.5, we have been made more aware of the growing need for clean drinking water and our responsibility in both using and sharing this gift of God. We are called to be good stewards of this awesome and precious necessity.

Water is an essential and necessary gift of our Creator. Each and every person grows and comes to life in the water of your mother’s womb. Human life is not possible without water.

In our faith life, water takes on a deeper spiritual meaning and purpose. Water becomes a rich symbol of grace that gives us new life in Christ. We are born again in Baptism of water and the Holy Spirit—Jesus speaks of living water becoming a fountain within the heart and soul welling up into eternal life. He desires to give us this wondrous gift. Water flowed from the side of Christ as he hung upon the cross. His death destroys death itself and brings new and abundant life. His self-giving is grace in abundance for us.

During the Vigil ceremony, the Celebrant dips his hand into the water and prays “Father, in union with your Son, send the Holy Spirit upon the water of this font. May all who are buried with Christ in the death of Baptism, rise also with him to newness of life.” We may refer to this water as Easter Holy Water.

At the Easter Vigil, we welcome new members of the Church. In the waters of Baptism women and men find new life through the power of the Holy Spirit. It has been our Catholic custom to renew our Baptismal vows at Easter liturgies and then be sprinkled with this Holy Spirit.

Here at St. Paul Parish the usual blessed water available for the Sign of the Cross, will not be available during this last week of Lent. We look forward and anticipate this rich ritual of blessing the “Easter Water”. On Easter Day we will approach one large “fountain” container in the narthex to bless ourselves in faith and sincere gratitude for God’s redeeming love.

This truly is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Museum of statues opens

The Museum of Divine Statues has opened to the public. Following a formal blessing of the facility by Cleveland Bishop Richard Lennon in the former St. Hedwig Church at 12903 Madison Avenue in Lakewood, the museum opened to the public on Sunday, April 10, 2011.

Visiting hours are Sundays, noon to 5:00 p.m. Free parking is available on the grounds. There is a small fee for entrance.

Founded by restoration artist Louis McClung; he rescues, restores, and displays ecclesiastical statues in a reflective and reverential setting.

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn details about each statue’s history and the symbols depicted. Some of these statutes were obtained from recently closed parishes in the Diocese of Cleveland. Although in disrepair, artist McClung has used his extraordinary talents to restore them to their original form and beauty.


Click here to see more about the museum.


Or See some or the items.

Ladies Guild honors past presidents

Past presidents (seated from left) are Claire Harbarger 1985-85, Betty Taber 1999-2000, Pat Rinella 1997-78, Rosemarie Muha 1996-97 and Rosemary Mileski 1989-90. Standing (from left) are Paula Adam 1994-95 and 2007-10, Maggie Colant 1995-96, Mary Lou Goodhart 2004-06, Terry Nesline 1992-93, Carylin Balchak 1991-92, Sandi Denholm 1996-97 and Pauline Broske 1979-80.








Sacristans (seated from left) are Ellen McAvoy, Rosemary Mileski, Dottie Thoerig and Donna Doughterty and (standing) Paula Adam and Sandi Denholm


A dozen past presidents and six sacristans were honored at the St. Paul Ladies Guild Silver Tea on Thursday evening in the Parish Activity Center.

There were 37 women attending.

Officers are Paula Adam, president; Sandi Denholm, first vice president; Patty Hogue, secretary' Judi Stoerkel, treasurer; Sally Casenhser, assistant treasurer; and Ellen McAvoy, Jodi Guilfoyle and Joanne Head, marshals.

Women gathered for Ladies Guild Silver Tea

See auction items for Spectacular

Would you like this Arnold Palmer autographed cap from the Arnold Palmer Invitational Pro-Am at Bay Hill CC on March 23, 2011?

It's one of many items to be auctioned off at the 24th annual Silent Auction and Reverse Raffle is Friday, April 29, at Guy’s Party Centre.

Click here to see a few others


Spectacular tickets are $125 per couple. Hors d’oeuvres, steak dinners, an open bar, an opportunity to bid on great items and cash prizes including the $4,000 grand prize are all included.

For tickets, call Fred Cafarelli 330-724-1946 or Tony DiDonato 330-603-9450. A 46-inch TV and an iPad are also going to be raffled for $5 per ticket or 5 tickets for $20.
Call Dana Coffman 330-352-0651 or Kim Kuhn 330-714-3701.

St. Paul alumni in high scbool plays

Two St. Paul alumni, Emily McInturff and Noelle Colant, are performing along with the other Our Lady of the Elms performers, in Sahara Nights. The play is a parofdy of Scheherazade’s One Thousand and One Nicghts.The play willl be in the Ann AmerBrednnan Audidtorium at 7 p.m. on April 14, 15 and 16. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $7 for adults.

St. Vincent / St. Mary is doing Thoroughly Modern Millie. Jacqueline Wammes and Emily Roberts, two St Paul alumni. are performing. TheTVM Leprechaun Theater Guild presentation will be Thursday though Sunday April 17. Tickets are $10.

Archbishop Hoban High School will present its Spring musical, The Sound of Music, at 7 p.m. on April 14 and 7:30 p.m. on April 15-16. Parishioners Jamie Dean, Matt Hogue, Erin Liggett, Angelina Miller and Cynthia Preston are part of the cast/crew.Tickets are $8 at the door. Tickets also are available from Patty Hogue at the rectory.