Saint Paul TODAY

Bishop writes letter opposing health care requirements

2012-01-28T20:41:00.001-05:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
I write to you concerning a serious matter that will negatively impact the Catholic Church in the United States if it is allowed to take effect as planned by the U.S. Department of Healthand Human Services. The proposed action of the U.S. Department of Health and Human\Services strikes at the fundamental right to religious liberty for all citizens of any faith.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced last week that almost all employers, including Catholic employers, will be forced to offer their employees' health coverage that includes sterilization, abortion-inducing drugs, and contraception. Almost all health insurers will be forced to include those "services" in the health policies they write, and almost all individuals will be forced to buy that coverage as a part of their policies.

In so ruling, the Administration has cast aside the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States denying to Catholics our Nation's first and most fundamental freedom, that of religious liberty. And as a result, unless this rule is overturned, Catholics will be compelled either to violate our consciences, or to drop health coverage for our employees (and suffer the penalties for doing so). The Administration's sole concession was to give our institutions one year to comply.

We cannot—we will not—comply with this unjust law. People of faith cannot be made second class citizens. We are already joined by our brothers and sisters of all faiths and many others of good will in this important effort to regain our religious freedom. Our arents and grandparents did not come to these shores of America to help build America's cities and towns, its infrastructure and institutions, its enterprise and culture, only to have their posterity stripped of their God given rights. In generations past, all the faithful have witnessed to the importance of the fundamental rights guaranteed by our country's founding documents. I trust that at this moment all of us will stand up for and work for the protection of those rights, especially the right to religious liberty for all America's citizens. Our children and grandchildren deserve nothing less.

Therefore, I ask of you two things. First, as a community of faith we must commit ourselves to prayer and fasting that wisdom and justice prevail, and that religious liberty remain a fundamental right for all Americans! Without God, we can do nothing; with God, nothing is impossible. Second, I recommend visiting www.usccb.org/conscience to learn more about this severe assault on religious liberty, and how to contact Congress in support of legislation that would reverse the Administration's decision.

Thanking you for your understanding and cooperation on this very important request, I am

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Richard Lennon

Bishop of Cleveland

Reminder on how you can help St. Paul School

2012-01-28T16:50:00.000-05:00

Catholics Schools Week might be a good time to remind you how you can help St. Paul School in a big way with a little effort.

Here are a few ideas provided by the PTO:

Things to save in your shopping.
Acme Receipts (School earns $2.50 for each $50 you spend)
Box Tops for Education (St. Paul earns 10 cents for each boxtop symbol)
Campbell Soup labels (UPC labels on Campbell’s redeemed for school equipment.)
Giant Eagle (assign St. Paul School to your Advantage Card)
Market Day (Purchase Market Day grocery items.)

Helping on special events.
Breakfast with Santa - donate a basket to raffle off
Spring Spectacular - donate a basket for the silent auction

How you can volunteer your help
Cafeteria substitute - someone to help the younger grades open items and clean up after lunch from 11:30-12:30 p.m. (Call the school for more details)
Computer Lab helper - Monday mornings for the kindergarten class (Call the school for more details)
Walking Club - adults needed from 7am-7:40 weekday mornings during the school year (Call the school for more details)

Supporting students, Scouts
Boy Scouts sell popcorn in the fall and our Girl Scouts sell cookies in the Winter
8th Grade Car Washes
8th Grade Bake Sales: One is scheduled February 11-12 in the narthex after all Masses. Proceeds will go toward the class trip to Washington, D.C.

Cell phones, ink cartridges
Did you also know, for instance, that cell phones you no longer use and ink car\tridges can be dropped off at the school to be recycled

You can notice welcome sign at open house

2012-01-27T11:16:00.001-05:00

One of the first things you are apt to notice if you attend the St Paul School open house on Sunday will be this banner just inside the school entrance. Open house will be after the 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday.

Funeral service for Catherine Vercuski is Saturday

2012-01-27T07:58:00.003-05:00

Catherine J. Vercuski, 88, passed away on January 25, at Akron General Medical Center.

Born in Hallsboro, N.C. on August 15, 1923 to the late Henry and Bette (Needham) Young, Catherine married Joseph Vercuski and moved to Akron in 1945. She worked as a real estate agent for Slusser Realty. Catherine was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church. She was an avid bridge player and baseball fan.

In addition to her parents, Catherine was preceded in death by her husband Joseph, as well as five sisters and one brother. She is survived by her children, Priscilla (Roger) Patterson and Daniel (Jenny Pudlik) Vercuski; grandchildren, Michelle Griggy and Brian (Cari) Patterson; great-grandchildren, Lauren Griggy and Alyssa and Zachary Patterson; one brother and two sisters; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will take place on Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home KUCKO-ANTHONY-KERTESZ CHAPEL, 1990 S. Main St. in Akron, where the family will also receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to The Briarwood Health Care Community of Stow, 3700 Englewood Drive, Stow, OH 44224.

Anthony Funeral Homes, Akron, anthonyfh.com
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, page B5, col. 6]

Jungle Book is starting to take shape

2012-01-26T19:57:00.003-05:00

Rapunzel's castle from last year's Drama Club play. "Into the Woods," is taking on a new look. It will become a huge coconut tree in this year's production of "Jungle Book." The top is already in shape. The trunk is not yet painted. Ferns and other greenery on either side of the stage in the Parish Activity Center will add to the jungle look. If you have any ferns you would like to loan for the performance, see a Drama Club member or call the school at 330-724-1253

Open house to kick off Catholic Scbools Week

2012-01-26T14:42:00.002-05:00

St. Paul School as usual will have an open house on Sunday to open Catholic Schools Week. The week begins with the open house from noon to 1 p.m. following the 11 a. m. Mass.

Grandparents Day will be celebrated on Friday, February 3, from 7:15 to 9:30 a.m. Grandparents are invited for continental breakfast followed by morning announcements and Mass with their grandchildren.

Activities for the week include students making Valentine cards for homebound parishioners and for U.S. troops. Wednesday is Teacher Appreciation Luncheon to honor the faculty

Theme of the Catholic Schools Week is “Catholic Schools - Faith, Academics, Service.”

This is the 39th year Catholic Schools Week has been celebrated. The first celebration was in 1974

Upcoming events of interest

2012-01-26T14:10:00.000-05:00

St. Patrick’s Day Party is at Queen of Heaven
There will be a St. Patrick’s Day Party Saturday, March 3, at Queen of Heaven Parish in Green. The entertainment will include the Irish Step Dancers and Green Blossom Special with Pat Flynn.

Come and See: Life You Change Could Be Your Own
Come Father Andrew Turner, Parochial Vicar of St. John Neumann in Strongsville, will reflect on “The Life You Change Could be Your Own” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 7, at Blessed Trinity Church (formerly St. Martha) 300 E.Tallmadge Ave.. Following the presentation,there will be an opportunity for small group discussion,including time for individual conversations with Father Turner. These monthly gatherings are intended for those who have questions or concerns about the Catholic faith or for anyone who simply wants to grow in faith and be able to discuss Catholicism with others in a knowledgeable way. There is no cost and reservations are not required. A Tribunal representative is present each month to answer annulment and re-marriage questions. For more information or to obtain brochure, please contact Linda Herold at 330.376.5144 or LindaAHart@aol.com, or visitwww.dioceseofcleveland.org/summit.

Luncheon to honor Iwo Jima veterans
The annual luncheon honoring veterans of Iwo Jima will be Saturday,February 18 (the day before the actual invasion) at noon at the First Christian Church, 6900 Market Avenue N., North Canton. Cost of the luncheon is $15 and should be prepaid no later than February 10. Checks may be made payable to John Woofter and mailed to 607 N. Sheraton Circle, Akron, OH 44319. Donations toward door prizes are also gratefully accepted. For more information, call 330-644-9867 or email jwoofter1@
neo.rr.com.

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje scheduled for June
Join Fr. Anthony Suso, from St. Francis de Sales on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje from June 22, 2012 and returning July 1, 2012. The group will meet up with David Parkes, recording artist from Ireland and tour guide in Medjugoje for the experience of a lifetime. The deadlines are approaching to save your seat for this trip.Contact Betty Schnitzlere 330-958-3903 or emaileschnitz@msn.com before February 1 to reserve your spot.

Friday, February 3, is Feast of St. Blaise

2012-01-26T14:02:00.000-05:00

Friday, February 3, 2012 is the Feast of St. Blaise, patron saint of throat maladies. There will be throat blessing at the 7 a.m. Communion Service and the 8:30 a.m. Mass. In addition, there will be a Prayer Service with throat blessing at 6:30 p.m. in the evening.

About St. Blaise
Many Catholics might remember Saint Blaise's feast day because of the Blessing of the Throats that took place on this day. Two candles are blessed, held slightly open, and pressed against the throat as the blessing is said. Saint Blaise's protection of those with throat troubles apparently comes from a legend that a boy was brought to him who had a fishbone stuck in his throat. The boy was about to die when Saint Blaise healed him. Very few facts are known about Saint Blaise. We believe he was a bishop of Sebastea in Armenia who was martyred under the reign of Licinius in the early fourth century. The legend of his life that sprang up in the eighth century tell us that he was born in to a rich and noble family who raised him as a Christian. After becoming a bishop, a new persecution of Christians began. He received a message from God to go into the hills to escape persecution. Men hunting in the mountains discovered a cave surrounded by wild animals who were sick. Among them Blaise walked unafraid, curing them of their illnesses. Recognizing Blaise as a bishop, they captured him to take him back for trial. On the way back, he talked a wolf into releasing a pig that belonged to a poor woman. When Blaise was sentenced to be starved to death, the woman, in gratitude, sneaked into the prison with food and candles. Finally Blaise was killed by the governor. Blaise is the patron saint of wild animals because of his care for them and of those with throat maladies. Prayer: Saint Blaise, pray for us that we may not suffer from illnesses of the throat and pray that all who are suffering be healed by God's love. Amen
Copyright 1996-2000 by Terry Matz. All Rights Reserved.

Mass intentions January 29 to February 5

2012-01-26T13:46:00.001-05:00

SATURDAY, January 28 St. Thomas Aquinas, Priest & Doctor of the Church
8:00am Intention of the Celebrant
4:30pm Helen Sutter +
SUNDAY, January 29 Fourth Sunday Ordinary Time
7:30am Teachers Staff & Students of St. Paul School and PSR
9:00am Teachers Staff & Students of St. Paul School and PSR
11:00am Teachers Staff & Students of St. Paul School and PSR
MONDAY, January 30 Weekday
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Kay Dorko
TUESDAY, January 31 St. John Bosco, Priest
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
WEDNESDAY February 1 Weekday
7:00am Helen Young +
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
5:30pm Russell A. Livigni
THURSDAY February 2 The Presentation of the Lord
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Marjorie Schaaf +
FRIDAY, February 3 St. Blaise, Bishop & Martyr; St. Ansgar, Bishop
7:00am Communion Service with Communion
8:30am Gertrude McCormick +
6:30pm Prayer Service with Blessing of Throats
SATURDAY, February 4 Weekday
8:00am Intention of the Celebrant
4:30pm Bruce Rayburn +
SUNDAY February 5 Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
7:30am Intention of the Celebrant
9:00am Living & Deceased Members of St. Paul Ladies Guild
11:00am Intention of the Celebrant

Refreshments in PAC after Conversion Masses

2012-01-25T21:58:00.001-05:00

Display on Conversion of St. Paul in Parish Activity Center. Fr. Ralph Thomas at right talks with Mary Factor and Nancy S. Leiby

Women gather around table after evening Mass

Ellen Newcomb with Mary Claire Walter picking up a pastry and visiting with Mom and music director Heidi Guttermuth after morning Mass.

St. Paul choir sings 'Holy God'

2012-01-25T21:32:00.001-05:00

St. Paul Choir sings "Holy God, We Praise Thy Name,." the opening hymn for the evening Mass on the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul. The date on the title is incorrect. It should read Jan. 25, 2012

A peek at walkers in Jenkins Gym

2012-01-25T13:52:00.000-05:00

This is a test video shot Wednesday morning on the feast of the Conversion of St. Paul. It shows parishioners walking in Jenkins Gymnasium. The gym is open for walking on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:40 a.m. to 8:40 a.m. and on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7 a.m. to noon. We are experimenting with use of video.

Seventh Grade girls win over St. Francis 26-13

2012-01-24T10:51:00.000-05:00

Seventh grade girls team won their first game of the season this past weekend. Jumping out to a 5-point lead after the first quarter, the team held on to a one-point lead at the half. The third quarter went back and forth and ended with St. Paul’s holding a 14-13 lead. The fourth quarter belonged to the St. Paul girls. Displaying a stifling defense, the St. Paul girls outscored St. Francis 12-0 and went on to 26-13 win to go to 1-7 on the season.. This was a great team effort with seven players scoring, according to coach John Garey. The Grade 3 squad has two games remaining. Grade 4 is looking for its first win. Grade 5 is now 2-4. And the Grade 6 and Grade 8 teams share identical 3-3 records.

Sunday is Team Mass Day. St. Paul players to sit together

The Diocese of Cleveland CYO has designated Sunday (Jan. 29) as Team Mass day. All players, parents and coaches are urged to attend the 11 a.m. Mass. Please wear your basketball jerseys. All players from each grade should sit together as one large St. Paul “team.”
[Source: Girls Basketball weblog]

A quote from St. Francis de Sales

2012-01-24T10:20:00.000-05:00

Today is the feast day of St. Francis de Sales (August 21, 1567 – December 28, 1622) who is known for his writings on the topic of spiritual direction and spiritual formation, particularly Introduction to the Devout Life, along with his Treatise on the Love of God.

Here is a favorite quote:

Have no fear for what tomorrow may bring. The same loving God who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. God will either shield you from suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thought and imaginations.

Thousands march to Supreme Court

2012-01-24T07:53:00.000-05:00

Thousands proceed up Constitution Avenue at the March for Life

By Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Thousands of abortion opponents marched to the Supreme Court on Monday to mark the 39th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion, and supportive lawmakers urged them to further their cause by working to defeat President Barack Obama in the fall.

The “March for Life” has been held every year since 1974, a year after the landmark Supreme Court ruling. It’s consistently one of the largest protests of the year in Washington, although soggy, chilly conditions likely kept this year’s numbers down a bit.

House Speaker John Boehner addressed the group, reminding those gathered on the muddy National Mall that he’s one of 12 children

“I’m sure it wasn’t easy for our mother to have 12 of us, but I’m glad we’re all here,” the Republican lawmaker said. “I’ve never considered being pro-life a label or a political position. It’s just who I am.”

Several dozen members of Congress addressed the rally and were cheered by participants, many of whom carried signs reading “I Vote Pro-Life First,” ‘’Defund Planned Parenthood” and “Face It ... Abortion Kills a Person.”

A Gallup poll last year showed that 49 percent of respondents identified themselves as “pro-choice,” while 45 percent called themselves “pro-life.” The same survey found that 50 percent of Americans believe abortion should be legal under some circumstances, 27 percent said it should be legal in all cases and 22 percent said it should always be illegal.

Read more in National Catholic Register

ABC video on Pro Life march

2012-01-23T16:22:00.001-05:00

video platform video management video solutions video player

Tom Liggett post on facebook

2012-01-23T14:33:00.000-05:00

Tom Liggett / Community Pregnancy Center

Thank you to Saint Paul Parish in Akron. They took part in the Change a Life baby bottle change drive. Saint Paul parishioners took home nearly 200 baby bottles and will return them full of spare change the first weekend in March. Thank you Father Ralph and the people of Saint Paul.

Reminder: Masses for Conversion of St. Paul

2012-01-23T10:43:00.002-05:00

There will be a Mass at 7 p.m. Wednesday for the feast of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle The Adult Choir will provide music for the liturgy and afterwards, there will be pie and refreshments in the Parish Activity Center. The feast also will be celebrated at the 8:30 a.m. morning Mass with a continental breakfast in the PAC.

Paul’s life is aptly illustrated by the metal art scultpure on the northeast wall of the church that commemorates the life of the patron saint of our parish. The work was done by the late George Borisuk from a design by Sister Carol Joy.

Prayer to the Apostle Paul

Glorious St. Paul, Most zealous Apostle, Martyr for the love of Christ,
Give us a deep faith, A steadfast hope, A burning love for our Lord;
So that we can proclaim with you, "It is no longer I who Uve, but Christ
who lives in me." Help us to become apostles Serving the Church with a pure heart. Witnesses to her truth and beauty Amidst the darkness of our days. With you we praise God our Father: "To Him be the glory, ia the Church and in Christ, now and forever." Amen.

Bottles distributed to help mothers and babies

2012-01-22T11:36:00.001-05:00

[Updated to list number of bottles distributed]

Jeannie Faushnight and son, Franklin, pick up a baby bottle to fill with coins for the Community Pregnancy Center of Barberton. The center offered bottles at all weekend Masses, asking St. Paul parishioners to fill them with coins to help give a mother and her baby a better start on life. The center provides counseling services and spiritual support to women when pregnancy is problematic in some way. Assisting in all issues supporting life as a gift of God. Bottles are to be returned to church the weekend of March 3-4.

Close to 200 were distributed. There are still some left in the narthax for people who did not get one.

If you failed to pick up one, please call the Pregnancy Center at 330-825-1900 or stop by the rectory.

Good job of clearing 5 inches of snow

2012-01-21T10:07:00.000-05:00

Bill Parry is a blurry image as he shovels snow off the sidewalk at St. Paul Church. Parry had all the snow cleared off the parking lot, steps and sidewalks before the 8 a.m. Mass on Saturday. There was five inches of snow which created a nice Winter church scene.

New banners hung in Jenkins Gym

2012-01-19T20:51:00.001-05:00

Bill Parry (top) and John Gless hang the new large banners in John Jenkins Gymnasium. The banners were provided by the St. Paul PTO.

One banner hangs on the west side of the north wall and the other at the entrance on the south side. Cost of the two banners was rougly $325. Each banner is 4 feet high and 8 feet long. They say ‘Saint Paul’ on the top line with an image of a tiger head in the middle of the two words. The bottom line reads ‘Home of the Tigers’ in script. The banners are orange and black.

This banner hangs on the south wall inside the entrance

This banner hangs on the west side of the north wall

Meeting planned to discuss break-in problem

2012-01-19T20:28:00.003-05:00

In light of the recent break-ins in the neighborhood, there will be a meeting of all the churches in the area to discuss what can be done to protect the facilities and safety for employees and parishioners. Councilman Donnie Kammer will attend along with Fr. Ralph Thomas and pastors and representatives from area churches.

Walking resumes at Jenkins Gymnasium

2012-01-19T20:25:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder that the Jenkins Gymnasium on Greenlawn is open for parishioners to use for walking exercise Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7:40 a.m. to noon and Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:40 a.m. to 8:40 a.m.

Culled from the bulletin

2012-01-19T20:18:00.005-05:00

Life Line screening scheduled for February 18
Do you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure or a family history of cardiovascular disease? Ultrasound technology is used to view the plaque buildup in your carotid arteries and offers other, similar tests that check for related vascular disease. Life Line Screening is offering a $10 discount on a variety of test packages. Call 1-888-286-7452 or 330-575 -1291 or email folivera@lisa.com to take advantage of the discount. The screenings will be at St. Paul on Saturday, February 18, in the Parish Activity Center.

‘Caring and Sharing’ session set for Monday at IHM
A "Caring and Sharing" session for those who are divorced, separated or widowed will be held on Monday (January 23) from 7:30-9:00 p. m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary's Convent Building, 1945 Portage Trail, 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.

Biblical Lands Plgrimage planned

Join Deacon Dennis Smith of Nativity of the Lord Jesus for a St. Paul & Biblical Lands Mediterranean Cruise & Pilgrimage led by Dr. Scott & Kimberly Hahn, Steve Ray and Mike Aquilina, October 25 – November 4, 2012 (with optional Tour to Rome November 4 – 7). For further information email Deacon Dennis at nativityhdeacon@ neohioi.twcbc.com or call Corporate Travel Service, Inc. 313-565-888 Extension 158 or 161.

Stephanie Castongia to give flute recital

2012-01-19T16:48:00.000-05:00

Stephanie Castongia, who plays flute at St. Paul’s weekend liturgies, will be presenting a graduate level flute recital at the University of Akron in Guzetta Hall. at 1 p. m. Sunday, February 19. Admission is free.Stephanie earned a BM in Flute Performance from Bradley University in Peoria, IL, studying with Dr. Kyle Dzapo, and is pursuing a MM in Flute Performancel at the University of Akron. She has won concerto competitions in Illinois and Arkansas and has participated in numerous master classes, including Walter Auer and Karin Reda in Vienna. Stephanie was a member of several chamber ensembles, principal flutist of the Bradley Symphony Orchestra and Bradley Symphonic Winds, and has performed in the Peoria Bach Festival.

She has been teaching privately for many years, both in-person and via Skype, an internet person-to-person platform which has been a great resource for teaching students in different locales.

Students to speak at First Friday Club

2012-01-19T13:18:00.004-05:00

Students from Archbishop Hoban, Our Lady of the Elms, St. Vincent-St. Mary and Walsh Jesuit high schools will speak at the First Friday Club Luncheon at noon on Friday, February 3, at the Martin Center on the University of Akron campus, 105 Fir Hill.. Their topic will be “Encountering God: Reflections trom Catholic High School Students.” They will share some of their experiences of encountering God while attending Catholic high schools. The cost of the luncheon is $15 with doors opening at 11:15 a.m. Prepaid reservations can be made by sending a check to the First Friday Club of Greater Akron, 795 Russell Ave., Akron, OH 44307. For more information, call 330-535-7668.

Form for obtaining contributions statement

2012-01-19T13:10:00.002-05:00

If you would like a copy of your financial statement of contributions to St. Paul Parish for income tax purposes, please fill out this form and either place it in the offertory basket or mail it to the rectory.

Mass intentions January 21-29

2012-01-19T12:23:00.000-05:00

SATURDAY, January 21 St. Agnes, Virgin & Martyr
8:00am Intention of the Celebrant
4:30pm Marilyn Mudd +
SUNDAY January 22 Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
7:30am Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul
9:00am Andrew Pachipka + (anniv.)
11:00am John & Bobbi Ams +
MONDAY, January 23 Day of Penance
7:00am Andrew & Margaret Livigni +
8:30am Frank Joseph Livigni +
TUESDAY, January 24 St. Francis de Sales, Bishop & Doctor
of the Church
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Sam & Josephine Lupica +
WEDNESDAY January 25 The Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle
7:00am Members of St. Paul Parish
8:30am Members of St. Paul Parish
7:00pm Members of St. Paul Parish
THURSDAY January 26 SS. Timothy & Titus, Bishops
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Helen Liggett +
FRIDAY, January 27 St. Angela Merici, virgin
7:00am Morning Prayer with Communion
8:30am Teachers Staff & Students of St. Paul School
SATURDAY, January 28 St. Thomas Aquinas, Priest & Doctor of the Church
8:00am Intention of the Celebrant
4:30pm Helen Sutter +
SUNDAY January 29 Fourth Sunday Ordinary Time
7:30am Intention of the Celebrant
9:00am Teachers Staff & Students of St. Paul PSR
11:00am Intention of the Celebrant

Mass to commemorate Conversion of St. Paul

2012-01-18T20:28:00.002-05:00

Metal art work on northeast wall commemorates life of St. Paul

The feast of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle on Wednesday (January 25) will be celebrated with a Mass at 7 p.m. in St. Paul Church. The Adult Choir will provide music for the liturgy and afterwards, there will be pie and refreshments in the Parish Activity Center. There also will be a continental breakfast in the PAC after the 8:30 Mass in the morning.

Paul’s life is aptly illustrated by the metal art scultpure on the northeast wall of the church that commemorates the life of the patron saint of our parish. The work was done by the late George Borisuk from a design by Sister Carol Joy.

Paul’s entire life can be explained in terms of one experience—his meeting with Jesus on the road to Damascus. In an instant, he saw that all the zeal of his dynamic personality was being wasted, like the strength of a boxer swinging wildly. Perhaps he had never seen Jesus, who was only a few years older. But he had acquired a zealot’s hatred of all Jesus stood for, as he began to harass the Church: “...entering house after house and dragging out men and women, he handed them over for imprisonment” (Acts 8:3b). Now he himself was “entered,” possessed, all his energy harnessed to one goal—being a slave of Christ in the ministry

100 years of Maryknoll Sisters: Sister Aquinas McKenna

2012-01-18T19:50:00.000-05:00

Since this is the 100th year of Maryknoll women as a community, we post this note on one who lived at St. Paul. It indcates how St. Paul was open to new ideas and underscores the value of mission..

Sister Aquinas McKenna MM, a Maryknoll sister who resided at St. Paul in the 1950s was a sister on “promotion.” The Sisters on Promotion means that the promoter speaks to the people of his/her experiences in mission and of the importance of mission and of their call to be part of mission story, as well of the need to support the missioners in the field. As part of that work the Sisters often went into the classrooms. The Sisers even wrote geography textbooks to acquaint the children with the world, peoples and cultures far from their own homes and endeavored to interest the children in the meaning of mission for them.

Sister Betty Ann Maheu of Maryknoll in New York said, “:I do not believe the work in Ohio was ever linked directly to vocation work, except as a possible by-product, but I doubt very much that it was directly connected with vocation work. It seems from the write-up that it was purely Promotion work.

There is an interesting little section in Sr. Aquinas' death appreciation letter that reads:

"Her storytelling gifts and Irish wit were ever present whether Sister Aquinas was taking up a collection, speaking to school children about missionary life or with other Sisters on the long drives throughout the United States. Her devotion to this work [promotion] was present even in later years and changing times.

Seminary retreat is set for April 20-22

2012-01-18T13:41:00.000-05:00

February 10-12, 2012 April 20-22, 2012

7pm Friday - 1pm Sunday

What:

Overnight retreat for men between 17 and 40 years
of age,offering the opportunity to experience life at the seminary.

Where:

Center for Pastoral Leadership

28700 Euclid Avenue, Wickliffe OH

Contact:

Father Michael P. McCandless

440-943-7660

mmccandless@dioceseofcleveland.org

St. Paul School starts food-scrap recycling

2012-01-18T10:48:00.000-05:00

St. Paul School received recognition in the Beacon Journal today for a new lunchtime food-scrap recycling program. The story and photo by religion writer Colette M. Jenkins was published on the Community section front.

The program — B the 1: Recycling that works — is a food-scrap recycling effort that turns lunchroom waste into compost for growing berries..

“We believe that our creator, God, has left the world in our hands to pass on to generation after generation.” said Fr. Ralph Thomas. “It is our job to preserve it, protect it and take care of it so that it continues to serve all of God’s people. How we dispose of our refuse is important because we don’t want to destroy God’s creation. It’s really about good stewardship.”

Shelly Kadilak, education and promotion specialist for the Summit-Akron Solid Waste Management Authority, talked to the 200 students in pre-kindergarten to eighth grade about composting Tuesday. She instructed them to throw away plastic — straws, sandwich bags, juice boxes, etc. — in regular trash cans. Organic waste (anything that comes from a living thing), she said, should be placed in the large green composting receptacle.

“Food scraps and even the new [compostable] lunch trays that you are seeing for the first time today can go into the container,” Kadilak said. “Juice boxes can be a little tricky because if you tear them, you can see the fuzzy fibers that tell you they are paper that comes from a tree. But if you look closely, there is a thin layer of plastic or foil; that means it’s not compostable and should be thrown in the trash.”

As part of the program, the polystyrene foam lunch trays have been replaced by compartmentalized compostable trays.

The program adt St. Paul will serve as a pilot for parish schools throughout the Cleveland Diocese.

Robert Brodbeck, principal at St. Paul, said the composting program is a welcome addition to the school’s commitment to good stewardship.

The photo by Beacon Journal photographer Karen Scheily shows Linda McClure (left) an assistant at St. Paul Catholic School and Shelly Kadilak, an education promotion specialist for the Summit Akron Solid Waste Management Authority helping kindergarten pupils dispense compostable waste after lunch during the first day of the school's composting program Tuesday.

Read the full story.

Snow is a blessing, bulletin board declares

2012-01-18T10:45:00.000-05:00

The bulletin board just inside the entrance to St. Paul School proclaims "Snow is a blessing." Students provided individual comments like this one by Alaina Bachmann. She wrote: "Snow Is a blessing because it is a way for kids to be active and have fun . Snow is a blessing because it melts and makes water for plants."

Fill bottle with coins for Mom and baby

2012-01-17T13:24:00.001-05:00

This bookmark will be inside each bottle

Community Pregnancy Center of Barberton is asking St. Paul parishioners to fill up a baby bottle with coins to help give a mother and her baby a better start on life. The center provides counseling services and spiritual support to women when pregnancy is problematic in some way. Assisting in all issues supporting life as a gift of God.

Please take a baby bottle home this weekend, January 21-22, and fill it with your loose spare change (coins) and return it to church on March 3-4. Bottles will be available after all Masses on January 21-22. For more information call the CPC at 330-825-1900.

St. Paul School gets 'thank you' from OPEN M

2012-01-17T11:07:00.001-05:00

St. Paul principal Robert Brodbeck and students have received a “thank you” letter from OPEN M for the collection of winter items for the needy.

In a handwritten note added to the letter, OPEN M chief executive editor Dottie Achmoody wrote:

“We were excited to see how full your Christmas tree was with all the Winter items. Thanks for partnering with us again.”

The thank you letter said:

“We are grateful for your generosity and caring spirit by putting God's words into action with your good deed of collecting winter items for those in need. Please thank all your students for their thoughtful Christmas donation of new winter hats, gloves and scarves that we distributed during our "Christmas for the Love of Childreri' program. We received a very positive response from the parents to receive the much needed winter items that they had not originally requested. Many parents were thrilled to be able to give their children an additional gift. OPEN M is very fortunate that you share God's love with those we serve.

“On behalf of our Board of Trustees, clients and the entire community of OPEN M, we would Iike you to know that we cherish you and His blessings.”

Two receive St. Vincent-St. Mary scholarships

2012-01-17T10:44:00.001-05:00

St. Paul students Michelle Chang and Regina Neugebauer have been selected to receive Irish Opportunity scholarships to St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. The scholarship is awarded in the amount of $4,000 ($1,000 per year, renewable for four years). Students are selected on the basis of academics, character, leadership and personal recmmendatuon of the principal.

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity opens

2012-01-17T10:21:00.004-05:00

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity opens tomorrow under the theme "We will all be changed by the victory of our Lord Jesus Christ." The Week is promoted by the World Council of Churches (WCC), a worldwide fellowship of 349 churches seeking unity, common witness and Christian service. The Catholic Church participates in this ecumenical initiative, despite not being a member of the WCC.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally celebrated from January 18 to 25. It brings together Christian parishes and congregations from different confessional families all over the world, who meet and pray together in special ecumenical celebrations.

This year's theme comes from St. Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians which promises the transformation of human life - with all its apparent dimensions of 'triumph' and 'defeat' - through the victory of Christ's resurrection.

Following the Angelus prayer on Sunday, Benedict XVI invited the faithful, "as individuals and in communities, to participate spiritually, and where possible practically in the Week of Prayer, to ask God for the gift of full unity among the disciples of Christ."

Mass for Marilyn Plazo is Thursday at St. Francis

2012-01-16T07:02:00.005-05:00

Marilyn Plazo, 74, went home to be with the Lord on January 14, 2012.

Marilyn was born in Akron on August 20, 1937 to the late Ray and Iris Wolf. She was a graduate of Garfield High School and the Hammel Business College. She retired from the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. after 39 years. She very proudly volunteered much of her time to the Friend's of Children's Hospital for many years.

She is survived by her husband, Tom; daughter, Anita Nowac; granddaughter, Ali; many other extended family members from the Plazo and Wolf families, and a host of friends from Goodyear, Children's Hospital, and the Hills of Pleasant Valley Garden Club.

Cremation will take place and a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Anthony Susso on Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Francis deSales Catholic Church on Manchester Rd. A private inurnment of ashes will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery in Akron. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Akron's Children's Hospital 1 Perkins Square, Akron, OH 44308.

Anthony Funeral Homes, Akron, anthonyfh.com 330.724.1281
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Monday, January 16, 2012, page B5, col. 4]

175 attend Scout Troop 81 spaghetti dinner

2012-01-15T22:58:00.003-05:00

Barnett family enjoying spaghetti dinner

Approximately 175 attended the annual spaghetti dinner fund raiser of Boy Scout Troop 81 on Saturday evening in Boeke Hall. Mary Starheim won the 46-inch HD TV. The 50/50 raffle winners of $122 were Vince and Steven Cook.

Leaders estimate that the Boy Scouts earned more than $2,100 including spaghetti dinner, TV ticket sales and 50/50 earnings, but this is not confirmed. Funds raised help buy much-needed equipment, pay for camp fees and otherm expenses for the ever-growing Scout troop. Much of our success was due to the fact that almost all items needed for the spaghetti dinner were donated and the tireless work of our volunteers.

Some of the donors were Sysco, Olive Garden, Starbuck’s, Sam’s club, Best Buy, Ideal Bakery, Target, Giant Eagle, Acme, and Laura Grubb. There were a couple of anonymous donors as well.

Scouts watching TV

Trio selling 50/50 raffle tickets

[Photos by Kim Kuhn]

Women gather to 'Open the Door'

2012-01-14T18:20:00.002-05:00

Women gather around the altar after Communion

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, [then] I will enter his house and dine with him, and he with me."

The theme for this weekend’s Gathring of Women at St. Paul was “Open the Door,” based on a book by Joyce Rupp.

Sister Cheryl Rose, a Humility of Mary nun, opened the door with some beautiful images in an hour-long retreat which seemed to be too short-lived.

Women gathered Saturday morning in the Parish Activity for the presentation after coffee and donuts.

A door left over from a student play and an enlarged prayer card showing Christ at the door served as a perfect backdrop.

Sister Cheryl asked the women to notice there was no doorknob. “That," she said, “is because the door can only be opened from the inside."

“God will never force a door open,” she said. “We allow God in.” He only slips memos or love notes under the door. “We have to open the door and invite God in.”

Sister Cheryl then asked the women to close their eyes and meditate–think about what doors they have closed or kept off limits to God. There was complete silence in the chapel for a couple of minutes.

Most of the women then went to the church where there was a candle procession to bring the gifts to the altar. Father Ralph Thomas gave a thoughful homily and invited the women to come up on the altar after Communion for a closing of the Gathering.

See photos of the covered dish dinner on Friday and the program on Saturday.

Dinner opens Women's Gathering

2012-01-13T21:19:00.002-05:00

Judy Richard (left) welcomes women to Gathering and Sister Cheryl Rose talks with Fr. Ralph Thomas

Women braved a heavy snow Friday evening to attend a covered dish dinner openig the two-day Women’s Gathering at St. Paul . Judy Richard, coordinator of the program, welcomed the women. Sister Chery Rose, who will present a program Saturday, attended the dinner.

The theme of the gatherig is “Open the Door,” based on a book by Joyce Rupp. Sister Cheryl will again lead the annual gathering. She will give a presentation after coffee and donuts at 8:30 a.m. Saturday. Sister Cheryl is a Humility of Mary nun whose motherhouse is in VillaMarie, PA. She is currently working from the Resource Center in Rocky River. She has taught chemistry, physics and theology in several Humility of Mary high schools, including Magnificat High School in Rocky River. She also was employed at NASA for a time.

See more photos of dinner

Fill the bottle with coins for Mom and baby

2012-01-13T12:03:00.003-05:00

A “little change” can make a “Big Change” in a “little life.” Community Pregnancy Center of Barberton is asking St. Paul parishioners to fill up a baby bottle with coins to help give a mother and her baby a better start on life. The center provides counseling services and spiritual support to women when pregnancy is problematic in some way. Assisting in all issues supporting life as a gift of God.

Please take a baby bottle home next weekend, January 21-22, and fill it with your loose spare change (coins) and return it to church on March 3-4. Bottles will be available after all Masses on January 21-22. For more information call the CPC at 330-825-1900.

Men’s conference is February 25

2012-01-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

The Answer the Call conference of the Catholic Men’s Fellowship of Northeast Ohio will be Saturday, February 24, at Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School, 1284912 Lakeshore Boulevard, Cleveland.

Speakers will be Fr. Timothy Kalista, parochial vicar of St. Mary in Chardon; Richard Lane, retired Highland Park School educator and National Football League Hall of Fame Cornerback, and Gerry Faust, former Notre Dame coach. Fr. Ken Sommer, co-founder of the Cincinnati Men’s Fellowship, will be a special guest. Bishop Richard Lennon will celebrate the closing Mass. Gary Burling, a member of St. Mary Church in Chardon, will be master pf ceremonies.

Fr. John Valenchek, pastor of St. Sebastian, will give a talk on Reconciliation.

New this year will be breakout sessions for high school and college youth.

The conference opens at 8 a.m. with registration and coffee and donuts. The conference begins at 9 a.m. Lunch is at noon. More than 30 priests will hear confessions during the lunch period. The closing Mass will be at 4 p.m.

Individual registration is $35 or $30 in a group of eight or more. The student rate is $15. All priests, deacons and seminarians are admitted free. Register online at www.cmfneo.com or call 877-208-5585 or mail payment to PO Box 21271, South Euclid, OH 44121

Directions to Conference

Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School is at 18491 Lakeshore Boulevard in Cleveland,Take Interstate 271 North to Interstate 90 West. Follow Interstate 90 to the East 185th exit turn right( North) and follow East 185th to Lakeshore Blvd.(about 15 blocks) The school is at the intersection of East 185th and Lakeshore. Parking is on the school property as well as at the old retreat house next door, Hospice of the Western Reserve, Euclid Hospital and the University Hospital wellness center. On arrival you will be directed to available parking. Shuttles will be available if needed.

No 8 a.m. Mass on Saturday -- but one at 10:30

2012-01-13T10:01:00.001-05:00

There will be no 8 a.m. Mass on Saturday but there will be a Mass about 10:30 a.m. to conclude the two-day Women's Gathering.

Reminder: New Mass music to begin January 22

2012-01-13T09:32:00.005-05:00

Beginning Sunday, January 22, we will start learning new Mass parts. The Mass of St. Paul the Apostle has been designated by Bishop Lennon as the Mass that all parishes in the Diocese of Cleveland should sing in order to know a common Mass that has been chosen for Diocesan celebrations at the Cathedral or multi-parish celebrations. The new Mass music will begin appearing in the pews this weekend and the new music will be offered as a prelude for several weeks after which time, one new piece of music will be introduced in the liturgy, approximately every three weeks. Listen below to preview the recorded music in advance

Mass of St. Paul music we will be using

2012-01-13T09:27:00.000-05:00

This is the Mass of St. Paul by Christopher Walker with the setting for the new translation of the Roman Missal. Included here are the Gloria, Gospel Acclamation, Lenten Acclamation, Holy, Acclamations A, B, and C, Doxology and Amen, and Lamb of God. Published by OCP, www.ocp.org. Used with permission. Excerpts from the English translation of The Roman Missal © 2010, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

Singers sought for funeral choir

2012-01-13T09:26:00.000-05:00

If you would like to sing in a funeral choir for St. Paul parish funerals, please leave your contact information (telephone and e-mail) on the organ for the music director and you will be contacted.

Open house to kick off Catholic Schools Week

2012-01-13T09:20:00.002-05:00

St. Paul School as usual will have an open house on Sunday, January 29, to open Catholic Schools Week. The week begins with the open house from noon to I p.m.following the 11 a. m. Mass.

Grandparents Day will be celebrated on February 3 from 7:15 to 9:30 a.m. Grandparents are invited for continental breakfast, followed by morning announcements and Mass, with their grandchildren. Additional information will be coming home with the students.

Theme of the Catholic Schools Week is “Catholic Schools - Faith, Academics, Service.”

This is the 39th year Catholic Schools Week has been celebrated. The first celebration was in 1974.

Culled from this weekend's bulletin

2012-01-13T08:02:00.003-05:00

Marriage Encounter sessions are Feb. 10-12
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Give your loved one the most meaningful gift of all...the gift of your “presence”...your time. Attend the upcoming Marriage Encounter Weekend on February 10-12 at the Cambria Suites in Green. Learn the techniques that have helped thousands of marriages for more than 43 years. To register for the Marriage Encounter Weekend or for more information, call 330-305-9963 or email WorldwideME@ sbcglobal.net. Don’t wait, weekends fill fast.

Next pre-Baptism class will be February 19
The next Pre-Baptism Class at St. Paul will be February 19 at 1 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center. You must attend a Baptism class if you want your child baptized and it has been longer than three years since you’ve attended a Baptism class. Please call the rectory office at 330-724-1263 to register.

St. Paul to provide Italian dinner at Maurin Center
St. Paul volunteers will provide an Italian dinner at the Peter Maurin Center on Sunday, January 29 from noon to 4 p.m. Sign-up for donations will be January 21 and 22 in the narthex Drop-off will be Saturday, January 28, in Boeke Hall, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.. Volunteers are always needed. It is a great opportunity for school service hours. If you would like to support our efforts but are unable to provide a food donation, we gladly accept monetary donations or gift cards to help cover the cost of items not donated. Questions? Call Susie Gatian 330-819-5771.

Programs on social justice scheduled

2012-01-13T07:58:00.003-05:00

On the Road with the Catholic Commission
The Catholic Commission has schedueld a panel discussion for Thursday evening, January 19, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The topis is Economic Justice: Where to Direct People, A Primer on 211 (Info Line) and the Office of Consumer Affairs with an Introduction to Catholic Charities Office of Employment and Training at Holy Family Parish, 3179 Kent Rd. Stow. This is an “on the road” meeting of the Catholic Commission. This is a great program for parish leaders, social concerns committees, St. Vincent de Paul societies, and anyone who wants to understand how to use the tools available to help those with a variety of needs. You will also see what is available on the web sites as resources. The evening begins with prayer followed by the program. This is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Ann Coplan 330-535-2787.

On Human Trafficking: Modern Day Slavery
Presented by Sr. Anne Victory, HM, MSN, Education Coordinator, The Collaborative Initiative to End Human Trafficking and Sr. Josie Chrosniak, HM, MS, Diocese of Cleveland Catholic Commission, Board Member Chair, Pax Christi National Council. Saturday, January 21, 2012, 10:00 a.m to noon, Our Lady of the Elms, 1220 W. Market St., Akron, Siena Hall. Reservations by January 18 to Conni Dubick 330-835-5688.

Ozanam Center needs trucks to pick up furniture

2012-01-13T07:52:00.000-05:00

The Ozanam Center is in need of volunteers with trucks to help with furniture pickups.The center has only a couple volunteers and could use some more to spread the pickups out and use our volunteers less frequently. If you are able to pick up furniture on a once a month or so basis, please call Cathie or Jim Perusek at 330 -467-5762. Also, if you would be willing to help load and do not have a truck we would love to hear from you.

Mass intentions for January 14-22

2012-01-13T07:37:00.000-05:00

SATURDAY, January 14 Weekday
8:00am Intention of the Celebrant
4:30pm Jack Doherty +
SUNDAY, January 15 Second Sunday Ordinary Time
7:30am Intention of the Celebrant
9:00am Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul
11:00am William Johnson +
MONDAY, January 16 Weekday
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Rick Glasgo +
TUESDAY, January 17 St. Anthony, Abbot
7:00am Jack & Joseph Lupica +
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
WEDNESDAY January 18 Weekday
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Leopold DiDonato + (anniv.)
5:30pm Intention of the Celebrant
THURSDAY January 19 Weekday
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
FRIDAY, January 20 St. Fabian, Pope & Martyr; St. Sebastian, Martyr
7:00am Morning Prayer with Communion
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
SATURDAY, January 21 St. Agnes, Virgin & Martyr
8:00am Intention of the Celebrant
4:30pm Marilyn Mudd +
SUNDAY January 22 Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
7:30am Living & Deceased Parishioners of St. Paul
9:00am Andrew Pachipka + (anniv.)
11:00am John & Bobbi Ams +

Reminder: Catholics Returning Home sessions open

2012-01-13T07:36:00.000-05:00

Do you know someone who was raised Catholic who no longer attends Mass? Or a family member or friend who feels alienated and separated from the Church? Do you know someone who has problems with the Church who would benefit from more information? Share with them this invitation to attend:Catholics Returning Home Thursdays 7:15 – 8:45pm Jan 12 – Feb 16, 2012 at St. Francis de Sales Parish Upper Room, 4019 Manchester Road
Attend any one or all the Thursda evening series:
January 12 Sharing our Stories
January 19 Sharing Stories of Faith
January 26 The Catholic Church Today
February 2 All About the Mass
February 8 Weds. Reconciliation… Why Bother?
February 16 The Creed: What Catholics Really Believe

Women’s Gathering opens Friday

2012-01-12T10:55:00.001-05:00

St. Paul women will gather at 6:30 p.m. Friday for a covered dish dinner in Boeke Hall to open a two-day retreat with the theme “Open the Door,” based on a book by Joyce Rupp. Sister Cheryl Rose will again lead the annual women’s gathering. She will give a presentation after coffee and donuts at 8:30 a.m. Saturday. Sister Cheryl is a Humility of Mary nun whose motherhouse is in VillaMarie, PA. She is currently working from the Resource Center in Rocky River. She has taught chemistry, physics and theology in several Humility of Mary high schools, including Magnificat High School in Rocky River. She also was employed at NASA for a time.

From the book “Open Door”
When we open the door and go inside, God is there in the temple of our soul, in the ashram of our heart, in the cathedral of our being. Which is not to dismiss the reality of this same loving presence being fully alive in our external world. The Holy One is with us in all of life. Our purpose for opening the door inward is to help us know and claim who we are so we can more completely join with God in expressing this love in every part of our external world. ~Joyce Rupp

Drama Club begins 'Jungle Book' practice

2012-01-11T20:42:00.003-05:00

"Jungle Book" cast, sitting in a circle on stage, reads through the script

More than 50 St. Paul students in grades 5-8 met Wednesday after classes for the first practice of “Jungle Book,” this year’s production of the Drama Club. The play, based on Rudyard Kipling’s books, will be staged March 8-11 in the Parish Activity Center.

Practices will be on Wednesdays and Thursdays though March 1 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The “Jungle Book” is very dependent on participation from the chorus groups as each group helps tell the story. Thus, all parts of the play are important.

Here is the cast:

Baby Elephant, Meredith Wammes
Bagheera, Anna Liggett
Baloo, Ally Bachmann
Bees: Holly Adam, Annelise Dawson, Tara Romo
Coconut Tree, Michelle Chang
Colonel Hathi, Regina Neugebauer
Elephant Troops: Maddie Peters, Austin Gayhart, Graham Evans,
Ben Martin, Brianna Jacobs, Amily and James Sloan
Flowers: Rylee Adam, Destiny Appleton and Michelle Bojo
Kaa, Kemar Parmer
Kaa's Coils: Paige Harbarger, Emma Izo, Natalie Wammes, Cory
Richmond and Katherine Neugebauer
King Louie, Blake Baldwin
Monkeys: Nicole McCullars, Chante' Reddest, Frankie Fausnight, Logan Bender, Lindsey Maple, Hanna Lidderdale and Calista Sokolowski
Mowgli, Jesse Bobbitt
Old Monkey, Allie Joyner
Jungle Chorus: Julianna Perez, Paityn Baker, Diana Chang, Lily Gray, Rylee Harvey, Maris Sarlouis, Brooke Wightman and Kimberly Maxwell
Rocks: Eddie Rollins, Joey Bojo
Shanti, Keimara McCants
Shere Khan, Nadia Timofev
Khan's Posse: Liz Pressman, Abbey Lewis, Erika Jordan
Wolves: Gabe Lidderdale, Maeve Cox and Amanda Schmidt

See more photos of play practice. Captioning of photos is not yet complete.

Jungle Book characters

2012-01-11T20:40:00.000-05:00

Collection scheduled for Catholic University

2012-01-11T13:53:00.002-05:00

Every year, millions of Catholics across the country contribute to the national collection for The Catholic University of America through their parishes. The special collection will take place this weekend (Jan. 14-15). The collection raises millions of dollars that go directly to support student aid at Catholic University of America in Washington, DC.

Reminder: Boy Scout spaghetti dinner is Saturday

2012-01-11T06:56:00.003-05:00

Boy Scout Troop #81 Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

Saturday, January 14, in Boeke Hall
3 to 7 p. m.
Adult $7 Children (12 and under) $5
Dinner includes: spaghetti and meatballs, bread, salad, dessert, coffee/juice. Takeout will be available.
Enter to win a 46” Flat Screen TV. 50/50 Raffle

Seventh grade girls play best game of season

2012-01-11T06:48:00.000-05:00

The St. Paul seventh grade girls basketball team played their best game of the season last weekend, reports coach John Garey. After falling behind 9-4 at the end of the first quarter, St. Paul rallied to tie the game at 10-10 at the half. The game went back and forth throughout the second half until SS Peter and Paul took a 19-14 lead with about 30 seconds left. The St. Paul girls made a late charge, stealing the inbound pass and scoring, cutting the lead to 19-16. St. Paul’s again stole the inbound pass and scored to make it 19-18 with 10 seconds left in the game. SS Peter and Paul managed to run out the clock and escape with a 19-18 victory. Six different Tigers scored in the game, showing a great team effort.

[Source: Girls' Basketball blog]

Serrans hear about vocations

2012-01-10T19:35:00.002-05:00

From left are Pete and Katherine Mihelick, Fr. Patrick Manning, Fr. Mark Latcovich and Fr. Ralph Coletta. (Photo by Ron McAvoy)

What does the Church look for in candidates for the priesthood?

Akron Serra Club members were given the answer at their Tuesday luncheon by Fr. Patrick Manning, chair of the Theology Department at Walsh University, and Fr. Mark Latcovich, vice rector and academic dean of St, Mary Seminary.

The four pillars of formation for the priesthood, they said, are Humanity, Intellect, Spirituality and Pastoral Leadership.

Human formation helps the seminarian grow in self knowledge. A priest must mold his personality to be a bridge, rather than an obstacle, for others to meet Jesus.

Intellectual formation is primarily achieved through each man’s coursework. Each seminarian pursues a master of divinity degree, and some also obtain a master of arts in theology.

Spiritual formation comes through days of recollection, lectures, retreats and regular prayer, confession and liturgy attendance.

A seminarian’s pastoral formation is the practical application of a seminarian’s overall formation.

Serrans also were given this   prayer of Saint John Henry Newman (1801-1890)

The Mission of My Life

God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another. I have my mission. I may never know it in this life, but I shall be told it in the next. I am a link in a chain, a bond of connection between persons.

He has not created me for naught. I shall do good; I shall do His work. I shall be an angel of peace, a preacher of truth in my own place, while not intending it if I do but keep His commandments.

Therefore, I will trust Him, whatever I am, I can never be thrown away. If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve Him, in perplexity, my perplexity may serve Him. If I am in sorrow, my sorrow may serve Him. He does nothing in vain. He knows what He is about. He may take away my friends. He may throw me among strangers. He may make me feel desolate, make my spirits sink, hide my future from me. Still, He knows what He is about.

Speaker for the next Serra luncheon will be Fr. Mark George of Walsh High School who has been celebrating Masses at St. Paul.

Bishop says church is stronger after parish closings

2012-01-10T11:02:00.000-05:00

Bishop Richard G. Lennon in a press conference on Monday said the diocese is stronger after the closing of about 50 parishes.

“In order to be stronger, we had to make some difficult decisions about closing and merging parishes, but the end result has been a stronger, more vibrant Church across the diocese,” Lennon said. “We are committed to having strong parishes. We are committed to good stewardship of our resources and we are transparent in what we are doing with the assets and the sales of the parishes that have closed.”

Lennon and James P. Gulick, the diocesan financial director, answered questions about diocesan finances in light of the sale of 26 of the churches closed in the eight-county diocese. The closings were part of a reconfiguration that reduced the number of parishes from 224 to 174 between August 2009 and June 2010. The plan was implemented in response to declining attendance, financial hardship, demographic shifts and a worsening clergy shortage.

In saying that the Church is financially stronger, Lennon said that three years ago, the diocese included 84 parishes that were in deficit spending. The number has been reduced to 14.

Details in the report reveal that $7.8 million of the $19.5 million received by the diocese from the assets and sales of closed parishes has been distributed at the parish level. The remainder has been used to pay $4.9 million in expenses, with $6.8 million remaining in the custody of the diocese to be used for the dozen remaining properties that have not been sold.

In addition, there are 14 former parishes that have appealed to the Vatican to have Lennon’s decision to close them overturned. The sale of those properties is prohibited, pending a ruling from Rome, which come could as early as March, according to a letter received by the diocese from the Vatican.

The report shows that the offertory collection in the diocese has been stable over the last five years, fluctuating within a five percent range, with a negative net change of 2 percent.

Lennon used the Museum of Divine Statues as a backdrop for his news conference to highlight it as an example of how the closed church properties are being used to benefit the community. The museum, in the former St. Hedwig Church building at 12905 Madison Ave., opened last April and includes some of the statues and artifacts from the closed parishes.

Among the statues and artifacts in the museum are stained-glass windows from the former SS Cyril and Methodius Church in Barberton (photo by Beacon Journal photographer Ed Suba) and a prie-dieu (prayer desk) from the former Sacred Heart of Jesus Church on Grandt Street in Akron.

Blog Commentary: The Report to the Community, by its very nature, is complex and difficult to digest. Beacon Journal religion writer Colette M. Jenkins has written a clear and balanced summary of the report.
See her full story.

Bishop's press conference on Report to Communty

2012-01-09T21:26:00.000-05:00

Bishop Lennon's press confxerence on Report to the 0ommunity

FAQ on closing of parishes

2012-01-09T21:20:00.000-05:00

Here are just a few of the questions answered in a FAQ about closed parishes.

Click here to go to the FAQ

Why did the Diocese have to close parishes?

What happened to the cash that each parish had when it closed?

What has happened to the closed properties?

What is the status of the 14 parishes whose closing was appealed?

Who is responsible for selling the properties?

How were the market values and selling prices determined for the properties that were sold?

Were all of the properties sold for cash?

How is the potential buyer of the property evaluated?

Does the Diocese have any control on the future use of the properties that have been sold?

What is the status of the disposition of religious items that were removed from the churches?

What assurance is there that the reported information is reliable?

Transformation of St. Hedwig as Oriano House

2012-01-09T21:13:00.002-05:00

(Video by Archbishop Hoban High School)
St. Hedwig Church in Akron will always be a place of hope and healing. Even though St. Hedwig's final Mass was celebrated in 2009, those who now walk through the church doors leave as better people, as did former parishioners for years. The church was purchased by Oriana House, a non-profit community corrections and chemical dependency treatment agency. Oriana House now operates its career preparation program, chemical dependency treatment program and reentry court and family violence court out of former St. Hedwig church properties, including the church itself.Oriana House. which was established in 1981, seeks to rehabilitate those struggling with chemical abuse or dependency and to provide humane corrections programs to offenders. Since its inception. Oriana House has become a nationally renowned nonprofit organization, helping many people and improving the community as a whole.

Video describes forming of Blessed Trinity Parish

2012-01-09T20:49:00.000-05:00

In 2009, three beloved churches merged, forming the aptly named Blessed Trinity Parish of Akron. This video by studens at Archbishop Hoban High School tells the story; Although parishioners of St. Martha, Christ the King and St. Hedwig had to leave behind their cherished parishes, they united to build a thriving community in their new place of worship. Father Joseph Warner, Blessed Trinity’s Pastor, said there were some challenges in creating a new parish, but each church’s former parishioners were supportive and optimistic about their future at Blessed Trinity.“I think the parish is much stronger, and it’s more vibrant than any of the three were on their own,” said David Donatelli, former St. Martha parishioner. The parish has also been working with Catholic Charities to expand its community food pantry, which Father Warner said served 68 families when it operated as part of St. Martha. The following month, after Blessed Trinity’s formation, the pantry served more than 180 families.Thank you to the students at Archbishop Hoban High Schoolfor producing this video. Blessed Trinity Parish is located in the former St. Martha Church. For additional information about the parish, call the parish office at 330.376.5144 or visit their web site at http://www.blessedtrinityakron.org.

Cluster concert is at Queen of Heaven February 19

2012-01-09T16:35:00.000-05:00

(Updated to correct time to 2 p. m.)

The annual Cluster Concert which will feature choirs and musicians from St. Paul, Nativity of the Lord Jesus, St. Francis de Sales and Queen of Heaven, will take place at Queen of Heaven Parish on Sunday, February 19 at 2 p.m.

Students get a four-day holiday

2012-01-09T13:53:00.003-05:00

Most students at St. Paul will consider Friday the 13th as a lucky day and be happy about the national holiday for Martin Luther King Jr. The four-day holiday is a result of a professional day for teachers on January 13 and the holiday on January 16.

Noticed in the Lost and Found section

2012-01-09T10:34:00.001-05:00

A pair of tiny and shiny black shoes noticed in the lost and found section of the narthex

Summary of Diocesan Finanacial Report

2012-01-08T20:45:00.000-05:00

This is a summary financial report for the Diocese. Click here for the reports and a link under this chart to a detailed 22-page audited financial statement in PDF format.. Please note that the amounts are listed in thousands of dollars. Total revenue was down $150,000 from $17,831,000 to $17,681.
Expenses increased $1,430,000 from $15,925,000 to $17,355,000.

Sacramental services in the Cleveland Diocese

2012-01-08T19:52:00.001-05:00

This table provides a comparison of the Sacramental Services as reported in the annual Report to the Community for the last three years. Other parts of the report will be posted on the blog later. It is difficult to compare some aspects of the report because the reports have been structured somewhat differently each year. The difference in the number of parises was a result of the reconfiguration which reduced the number of parishes.

	2011	2010	2009
Catholic Population	710,351	710,351	744,000
Parishes	174	174	201
Infant/Child Baptisms	6,582	6,266	7,009
First Communions	8,461	8,628	9,139
RCIA	968	1,003	1,072
Confirmations	7,661	7,801	9,045
Marriages	2,357	2,299	2,592
Deaths	no report	6,947	7,956
Individuals served Catholic Charities	303,006	328,973	326,414
Nights of shelter provided	61,082	58,771	48,702
Treated drug cases	no report	2,970	4,143
Meals served	3,278,73	3,101,328	2,829,781

Catechetical conference scheduled for January 21

2012-01-08T17:24:00.002-05:00

The fourteenth annual “January Thaw: Fire Up” conference is scheduled for Saturday, January 21, at Archbishop Hoban High School. The conferemce is sponsored by the Southern Area Catechetical Leaders of the Diocese of Cleveland in association with the Office of Catechetical Services. Fr. Richard Fragomeni will give thr keynote address:ng What’s the “This” in Remembrance of Me? Being and Doing the Eucharist Gift. In addition, the conference will offer a retreat option, as well as choices of more than 20 sessions for parish and school catechetical leaders, youth ministers, catechists, teachers, and RCIA teams. More information is available online. Registration is limited. For additional information call the Southern Area Office of Catechetical Services, 330-773- 7621, or contact apolack@neo.rr.com.

K. of C. to sponsor foul-shooting contest

2012-01-08T17:16:00.001-05:00

The Knights of Columbus #3410 will sponsor a Foul-Shooting Championship next Sunday, January 15, at 6 p.m. in the St. Paul Jenkins Gym on Greenlawn Ave. Boys and girls ages 10-14 are eligible. There is no cost. Any questions, call K of C Hall, 330-773-3410

Programs of interest elsewhere

2012-01-08T17:10:00.000-05:00

Irish recording artist to perform at Hudson on January 20
David Parkes, a Catholic, Pro-Life recording artist from Dublin, Ireland, will present an “Evening of Prayer Through Song” at St. Mary Catholic Church in Hudson on Friday, January 20. The concert is at 7 p.m. in the church at 340 N. Main St. A free-will offering will be taken. For more information, contact Jimmy Sutphin inkyjim@windstream.net or Betty Schnitzler at 330-958-3903 or email eschnitz@msn.com

Visitation of Mary sponsors ChiliNight on a Chilly Night”
Visitation of Mary Parish (formerly Annunciation) Is sponsoring a “souper supper” dubbed “ChiliNight on a Chilly Night” Saturday, January 14, , at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria, 88 Kent St. .Tickets are $20 and include delicious chili and soups prepared by Dan Julian of Julian’s Restaurant, along with a Hot Dog bar, open beer and wine bar, 50/50 tickets, cash drawing with a $100 top prize Reservations are needed by Tuesday, January 10. For information, call the Rectory 330-535-4141 ext. 12.

Fr Petkash to speak on spirituality program
The Divorced, Separated and Widowed Catholics of Akron is sponsoring a talk by Father Donald Petkash, SJ from the Office of Missions at Walsh Jesuit High School.Father Petkash will speak on Spirituality Program for Adults. It will be held on Monday, January 9, at 7:30 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary, Convent Building, 1945 Portage Trail in Cuyahoga Falls. The event is open at no cost to single people of all faiths. Refreshments at 7:15 pm. For information call Frank 330-801-0527 or Sharon 330-612-3635.

Mass intentions January 7-15

2012-01-08T17:08:00.002-05:00

SATURDAY, January 7 St. Raymond of Penyafort, priest
8:00am William Weigand + (anniv.)
4:30pm Lucy Golding +
SUNDAY, January 8 The Epiphany of the Lord
7:30am Intention of the Celebrant
9:00am Bette Nesline + (anniv.)
11:00am George Horn + and Family
MONDAY, January 9 The Baptism of the Lord
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Mass of Thanksgiving—Spiros Family
TUESDAY, January 10 Weekday
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Donna Johnson + & William & Laura Wayman +
WEDNESDAY January 11 Weekday
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Anton Boca +
5:30pm Intention of the Celebrant
THURSDAY January 12 Weekday
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Catherine Weigand + (anniv.)
FRIDAY, January 13 St. Hilary, Bishop & Doctor of the Church
7:00am Morning Prayer with Communion
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
SATURDAY, January 14 Weekday
8:00am Intention of the Celebrant
4:30pm Jack Doherty +
SUNDAY January 15 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
7:30am Intention of the Celebrant
9:00am Intention of the Celebrant
11:00am William Johnson +

First Friday Club to hear Sr. Mary McCormick

2012-01-07T15:06:00.002-05:00

Sister Mary McCormick, OSU, Professor of Systematic Theology at St. Mary Seminary and Graduate School of Theology in the Cleveland Diocese will address the First Friday Club Luncheon on Friday, January 13, at the Martin Center of the University of Akron, 105 Fir Hill. Her topic will be “The Doctrine of God” as she presents her hour-long presentation that includes time for questions. Luncheon is $5 and doors open at 11:15 a.m. Prepaid reservations may be sent to First Friday Club of Greater Akron, 795 Russell Ave., Akron, Ohio 44307. For more information call 330-535-7668.

Sister Mary has a bachelor of education degree from Youngstown State University, a M.A. from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh in 1986, M.R.E. from Loyola University in New Orleans in 1991 and a Ph.D. from Fordham University in 2001. She spoke at St. Paul on September 24.

St. Paul Girls prepare for clash with St. Barnabas

2012-01-07T10:55:00.000-05:00

The St. Paul Tigers (3-0) are preparing for a clash of unbeatens this weekend against 3-0 St. Barnabas. The game is at 5 p.m. Sunday at Our Lady of the Elms. From left are Hanna, Madison, Kelly, Calista, Atali, Dameana, Haley and Allie. Not shown are Kylie and Maddie.
[Source: St. Paul Girls’ Basketball blog]

Kenneth Nesline, brother of Dave, dies at 70

2012-01-07T09:14:00.001-05:00

Kenneth Robert Nesline, age 70, of Akron, passed away early Tuesday morning at his residence.

He was born December 26, 1941 in Akron to the late Robert and Elizabeth (Dobo) Nesline. Kenneth was a Garfield High School Alumni and a 27-year member of the Akron Area Board of Realtors. He was a longtime member of Community of Christ Church, where he served in the Outreach Team, Recovery House Ministries, and Prayer Team Ministries. Kenneth was also active with Street Ministries, the Salvation Army, and the Lions Club; he was a friend of Bill Wilson for over 25 years.

Besides his parents, he was preceded by his beloved Jake. He is survived by his daughter, Rachael Nesline Enriquez and her husband Joseph of Nashville, Tennessee; a brother, David (Terrie) Nesline of Akron; his fiancée, Carmela "Carmi" Allen, and good friend, Don and several good friends who will miss him.

Friends may call TODAY from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home, 811 Grant St. in Akron. Friends may also call Saturday from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Community of Christ Church, 834 Grant St. in Akron, where the funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to the family to defray expenses.
Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home www.Dunn-Quigley.com
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, OH. Friday, January 6, 2012, age B4, col. 6]

Learning Mass of St. Paul to begin January 22

2012-01-06T12:52:00.000-05:00

Beginning January 22, we will begin the process of learning new Mass parts. The Mass of St. Paul the Apostle has been selected by the Bishop as the Mass that all parishes in the Diocese of Cleveland should sing in order to know a common mass which has been chosen for Diocesan celebrations at the Cathedral or mult-parish celebrations. The new mass musc will begin appearing in the pews this weekend and the new music will be offered as a prelude for several weeks after which time, 1 new piece of music will be introduced in the liturgy, approximately every 3 weeks. If you are interested in previewing the recorded music in advance, visit www.ocp.org and type in "Mass of St. Paul the Apostle."

However, you can just go below to listen,.

St. Paul students to compete in Power of Pen

2012-01-06T11:28:00.000-05:00

UPDATED to include names of students participating

St. Paul students will compete in the Power of the Pen district tournament on Saturday, January 7, at St. Vincent / St. Mary High School. Students who qualify for the Regional Tournament will go to Kent State University in Kent, for competition tentadtively scheduled for February 25.

The state finals will be at the College of Wooster Thursday-Frday, May 24-25.

Power of the Pen is committed to being the leading interscholastic program in written expression. It assists teachers in the ongoing task of facilitating better student writing by providing quality tools and resources to identify, challenge, and reward excellence.

More than 7,500 of these students will compete directly in a Power of the Pen tournament this year.

The seventh grade team from St. Paul includes Jesse Boffittt, Annelise Dawson, Paige Harbarger, Lindsay Mapole and Michelle Bojo. The eighth grade team includes Allison Bachmann, Michelle Chang, Marcus Bender, Regina Neugebauer, Haley Boatwright and Julianna Perez. Alternates are Katherine Neugecbaue and Ryan Canan.

Sudent runners are Gabe Lidderdal and Kemar Palmer. Joseph Bojo is parent volunteer,

Police being given photos to trace stolen pyx

2012-01-06T10:04:00.000-05:00

A photo of pyx used to carry the Ecuharist to the homebound is being given to Akron police to aid in tracking down three stolen from the rectory in a Christmas break-in. It is believed the thieves might try to pawn the pyx and could then be apprehended. Money also was taken but no other traceable items.

Bishops Dolan, O'Brien among 22 new cardinals

2012-01-06T08:09:00.003-05:00

By John L. Allen Jr.

National Catholic Register
Pope Benedict XVI today announced the names of 22 new cardinals, including 18 under the age of 80 and thus eligible to vote for the next pope. The list includes two Americans: Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York, and Archbishop Edwin O’Brien, Grand Master of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre and the former archbishop of Baltimore

The consistory, the event in which these nominees will formally enter the College of Cardinals, is set for Rome on Feb. 18-19.

Once again, Benedict’s choices are top-heavy with Italians (seven of the 18 voting cardinals), Vatican officials (ten) and Europeans (twelve). Three also come from North America, including Archbishop Thomas Collins of Toronto along with Dolan and O’Brien.

Only three of the new cardinals come from outside the West: João Bráz de Aviz, a Brazilian who heads the Vatican office for religious life; John Tong Hon, bishop of Hong Kong; and George Alencherry, archbishop of the Syro-Malabar church in India.The following is the complete list of new cardinals announced today by the pontiff, during his Angelus address marking the Feast of the Epiphany.

18 new cardinal electors
1. Fernando Filoni (Italian), Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
2. Manuel Monteiro de Castro (Portuguese), Major Penitentiary of the Apostolic Penitentiary
3. Santos Abril y Castelló (Spanish) , Archpriest of the Basilica of St. Mary Major
4. Antonio Maria Vegliò (Italian), President of the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Refugees
5. Giuseppe Bertello (Italian), President of the Government of the Vatican City State
6. Francesco Coccopalmerio (Italian), President of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts
7. João Bráz de Aviz (Brazilian), Prefect of the Congregation for Religious
8. Edwin O’Brien (American), Grand Master of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre
9. Domenico Calcagno (Italian), President of the Apostolic Patrimony of the Holy See
10. Giuseppe Versaldi (Italian), President of the Prefecture for the Economic Affairs of the Holy See
11. George Alencherry (Indian), Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church in India
12. Thomas Collins (Canadian), Archbishop of Toronto
13. Dominik Duka (Czech), Archbishop of Prague
14. Wim Eijk (Dutch), Archbishop of Utrecht
15. Giuseppe Bettori (Italian), Archbishop of Florence
16. Timothy Dolan (American), Archbishop of New York
17. Thomas Woelki (German), Archbishop of Berlin
18. John Tong Hon (Chinese), Bishop of Hong Kong

In keeping with papal custom, Benedict XVI also named four new cardinals who are already over 80 years old, and hence ineligible to take part in a future conclave. These are often called "honorary" appointments, used to recognize lifelong service to the church in some capacity.

Four honorary cardinals:
1. Archbishop Lucian Mureşan, Major Archbishop of Făgăraş şi Alba Iulia (Romanian)
2. Monsignor Julien Ries (Belgian)
3. Augustinian Fr. Prosper Grech (Maltese)
4. Jesuit Fr. Karl Becker (German)

Mass for Elia D’Altorio is Monday

2012-01-06T07:57:00.002-05:00

Elia D'Altorio--wife, mother, grandmother--died January 4, 2012 peacefully in her sleep. Born November 4, 1917 in Rivisondoli, Abruzzi, Italy, Elia immigrated to Akron, Ohio, where she made a lifelong home. She was a parishioner of St. John the Baptist and St. Paul Catholic Churches.

Preceding her on the celestial highway are her parents, Luigina and Giulio Spagnuolo; her husband, Frank; her daughter, Genevieve; and her brothers, Ottavio and Febo. Family here to remember her includes her son, James; her brother, Andrew; her grandchildren, Darren, David and Elesia; her daughter-in-law, Darlene; and many cousins, nieces and nephew.

Mom believed strongly in her faith, her home and her family. Sunday dinners, family gatherings and family loyalty were most important. Her greatest joy and pride was being involved in her grandchildren's lives from the day they were born until the present, more than 20 years later.

Thank you to her nieces, Renee (Fred) Barnes, Janet (Barry) Crump, and Dianne (Russ) Swartz for their thoughtfulness, especially Dianne, who visited Mom every Sunday; to her daughter-in-law, Darlene D'Altorio-Jones for aiding in her rehab and care, making it as stress-free as possible, and to her goddaughter, Toni Schwartz, who lives in California, for checking on her and sending gifts. Also, to her cousin, Mary DiDonato who provided her medical and personal needs for many years; to her care giver, Berthine Moore, for the compassion and attention she gave to her "little buddy", and to Odyssey Hospice for their care in her final days. Mom led a life of quiet dignity and independence. Her body may be gone, but her spirit lives.

Funeral service will be held Monday, 9:40 a.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel, 1990 S. Main St., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St., Akron, Ohio 44301. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday, 12 (noon) to 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Donations may be made to St. Paul School.
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Friday, January 6, 2012, page B4, col. 1]

Bible question from Old Farmer's Almanac

2012-01-05T19:27:00.004-05:00

Who are the three oldest people in the Bible?

Click on comments for the answer

Feast of Epiphany to be celebrated Sunday

2012-01-05T16:06:00.004-05:00

The Feast of Epiphany on January 6 is also the twelfth day of Christmas when the three kings brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to baby Jesus in Bethlehem. It will celebrated on Sunday which is also he feast of the Holy Family.

This oil painting of the Epiphany is by Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch (1475-1480) His work is known for its use of fantastic imagery to illustrate moral and religious concepts and narratives. The painting, 29 inches by 21 inches, is in the Philadelphia Museum of Art. He also did a triptych (three panels) incorporating this painting which hangs in the Prado Museum in Madrid with a copy in Philadelphia.

Even before the year 354, the Western Church had separated the celebration of the Nativity of Christ as the feast of Christmas and set its date as December 25; it reserved January 6 as a commemoration of the manifestation of Christ, especially to the Magi, but also at his baptism and at the wedding feast of Cana.

The West observes a twelve-day festival, starting on December 25, and ending on January 6, known as Christmastide or the Twelve Days of Christmas. Some Christian cultures, especially those of Latin America and some in Europe, extend the season to as many as forty days, ending on Candlemas (February 2).

On this day there also may be blessing of homes, on whose doorways are inscribed the Cross of salvation, together with the indication of the year and the initials of the three wise men (C+M+B), which can also be interpreted to mean Christus Mansionem Benedicat (May Christ bless the house) written in blessed chalk. This custom, often accompanied by processions of children accompanied by their parents, expresses the blessing of Christ through the intercession of the three wise men and is an occasion for gathering offerings for charitable and missionary purposes;

For more information see the Liturgical Calendar

Box Top$ for Education earn $4,895

2012-01-05T10:33:00.005-05:00

Did you know that, thanks to coordinator Jeannie Fausnight, those Box Top$ for Education have earned $4,895 since 2002 for St. Paul School.

Have you been clipping those coupons? St. Paul School earns 10 cents for each boxtop symbol you turn in. There is a red coffee container in the narthex where you can deposit the coupons. There is a big list of products that contain the boxtops posted on the kiosk.

Total earnings for the 2010-2011 school year were $625.

Earnings so far for 2011-2012 are $538

It is amazing how clipping those little coupons can earn 10 cents each which ends up with nice earnings in just one year.

If you remember to clip and spread the word, St. Paul’s earnings could skyrocket. St. Barnabas, our Northfield neighbor, has earned $10,229 and Rittman Elemenary School has earned $1,130. St. Paul should be able to hit $1,000. Go for it.

Principal Robert Brodbeck's newsletter

2012-01-04T11:08:00.000-05:00

This is the December newsletter from St. Paul School principal Robert Brodbeck printed on the reverse side of the January 2012 school calendar:

"May we greet our newborn Lord with the joy of the shepherds and may the new year be one of blessings for you and yours."

One of my resolutions for the upcoming year is to try to follow more closely St. Paul's advice. St. Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5, 16-18: "Be joyful always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

This resolution will not be without challenges, but with prayer, I hope to make progress this year.

Certainly, working with the students each day helps with being joyful. In addition, my responsibility as a Catholic School principal gives me a great opportunity to pray often. Finally, gratitude is a constant because of the efforts and sacrifices given by members of our community in their support for the students of St. Paul School.

. William Arthur Ward states: "Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it."

Therefore, I would like to express my gratitude to:

* Fr. Ralph Thomas for his guidance and support,
* The parishioners for their financial support over the years,
* Our parents for their sacrifices and support,
* The teachers and the school and parish office staff for all their dedication and hard work,
* Our custodial staff for keeping an 83-year-old building looking so inviting,
* The Cafeteria staff for preparing and serving lunch to the students each day.

* Our Music Director for her work enriching our Liturgies and with the St. Paul Ringers,
* Our Lector Instructor who volunteers to develop life-long public speaking skills in our students, and improve our liturgies.
* Our DRE who facilitates the Sacramental programs for our students,
* The PTO, Booster Club, Coaches, Gym Manager, Scout Leaders, Chess Club Leaders, and all our volunteers who provide our students the extra opportunities to learn and grow,
* Harry Liggett for giving his time and effort showcasing the many school activities on the blog,
* The Parent lunchroom volunteers for helping our youngest students navigate through ketchup packets, milk cartons, etc. Thank You!

FYI
At this time we are experiencing an increase in tardiness. I believe it is very important that our students start their academic day on time with the teacher and classmates. It has been my experience that a student's attendance record is strongly related to his or her academic achievement at St. Paul School   and beyond. Please make the necessary arrangements to have your child arrive on time each school day. Classes begin each day at 7:50 AM. Students should be in their seats and ready to begin their instruction at 7:50 AM.   Thank you for your support in this matter.

Important Dates:
Jan.4: Back to school
Jan.13: No School
Jan. 16: No School
Jan. 20: End of Grading Period
Jan. 26: Report Cards home
Jan. 29: CSW Mass 11:00 AM

Mother Seton: Keystone of American Catholic Church

2012-01-04T07:40:00.004-05:00

Today is the feast day of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, one of the keystones of the American Catholic Church. She founded the first American religious community for women, the Sisters of Charity. She opened the first American parish school and established the first American Catholic orphanage. All this she did in the span of 46 years while raising her five children.

Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton is a true daughter of the American Revolution, born August 28, 1774, just two years before the Declaration of Independence.
[Source: Saint of the Day]

Today is the Feast of the Most Holy Name of Jesus

2012-01-03T20:12:00.000-05:00

Today is the feast of the Most Holy Name of Jesus

Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. ~Phillipians 2: 9-11

See Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus.

St. Francis de Sales on Holy Name of Jesus:
"How happy we will be if, at the hour of our death, as well as during the whole of our lives, we pronounce the sacred name of the Saviour with due respect. It will be like a password by which we will freely enter Heaven, for it is the name of our redemption. In our last hour, if God gives us the grace not to die suddenly, we will have a priest near us who will hold a blessed candle in his hands and will call out to us: 'Remember our Redeemer; say Jesus, say Jesus.' Blessed will they be who pronounce it reverently and with a most profound appreciation of our Saviour having ransomed us with His blood and by His Passion. Those who call upon the name well at the time of death will be saved. The opposite will be the fate of those who do not speak it well and who pronounce it tepidly and without fervor. We ought most certainly to repeat it often during our lifetime, for it was given to His Son by the Eternal Father. It is a name which is above every other name, wholly divine, gentle and full of goodness. It is an oil poured out [Cant. 1: 2 (3)] to heal all the wounds of our souls. At this sacred name every knee bends [Phil. 2: 9-10]. It is the name which gives joy to the angels, saves men, and causes demons to tremble. This is why it should be deeply engraved upon our hearts and our spirits so that, blessing it and honoring it in this life, we maybe worthy of singing with the blessed: Live Jesus! Live Jesus!"

Blessing of Aaron is in first Mass reading

2012-01-01T00:08:00.000-05:00

Today is the Octave Day of the Nativity of the Lord Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God

The first reading for Mass is the familiar Blessing of Aaron:

Reading 1 Nm 6:22-27

The LORD said to Moses:
"Speak to Aaron and his sons and tell them:
This is how you shall bless the Israelites.
Say to them:
The LORD bless you and keep you!
The LORD let his face shine upon
you, and be gracious to you!
The LORD look upon you kindly and
give you peace!

Greetings for the new year: 2012

2011-12-31T17:56:00.000-05:00

Prayer for Families prayer card used at Mass today

2011-12-30T10:22:00.000-05:00

Today is the feast day of the Holy Family. Here is a prayer card used at Mass.

PRAYER FOR FAMILIES

LOVING AND MERCIFUL God,
we pray for the many needs of
families: for abundant love, for
forgiveness and reconciliation, for a
living faith to face the challenges of
each day. Jesus, you were bom into
a human family and became our
brother. You know well what
families need to nourish both
children and parents in long-lasting
bonds of love and respect.
Help families of all shapes and sizes
turn to yo'u as their source of life.
May your Spirit encourage husbands
and wives, mothers and fathers, broth
ers and sisters. Give us all the eyes to
appreciate one another and to be grate
ful for the gift of families. Amen.

Pope Benedict's prayer intentions for January

2011-12-30T07:42:00.000-05:00

Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for January 2012 is: "That the victims of natural disasters may receive the spiritual and material comfort they need to rebuild their lives".

His mission intention is: "That the dedication of Christians to peace may bear witness to the name of Christ before all men and women of good will".

Hoban High secretary Jean Lanshe dies

2011-12-29T15:19:00.003-05:00

Please keep the family of Jean Lanshe, who died Dec. 28, in your prayers. Jean was a central office secretary for many years. She and her husband John received the Friend of Hoban award in 1997 and have been very active in the Assocaes of St. Joseph. Jean is the mother of John Lanshe '76, Kristen Habel '77, Laureen O'Donnell '78, and Janine Delagrange '81. She is the grandmother of Brianna Habel '07, Nolan Habel '11, Michael Delagrange '12, Elise Delagrange '13 and Marissa Delagrange '15. Calling hours are 4-8 p.m. on Jan. at Donovan Bagnoli Funeral Home, at 17 Southwest Ave., in Tallmadge. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church,. A Jean and John Lanshe Scholarship will be established at Hoban.

100,000th viewer signed on at 2:14 p. m.

2011-12-29T14:18:00.006-05:00

Today at 2:14 p.m. our 100,000th viewer signed on to read Saint Paul TODAY. The viewer was from an Akron Public Schools domain 269.101.l178 using an Internet Explorer browser.

The blog was started on September. 23, 2007 with an announcement in the church bulletin. When the blog started, we got only about a dozen visits a day. We now average more than 100 a day. There have been 4,135 articles posted since then.

There were 4,463 visits in November or an average 146 a day

Mass Intentions for January 1-8

2011-12-29T07:00:00.002-05:00

MONDAY, January 2 Sts. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, bishops & doctors of the Church
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
TUESDAY, January 3 The Most Holy Name of Jesus
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Maxine DiDonato + & Joanne DiDonato Staats +
WEDNESDAY January 4 St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, religious
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
5:30pm Intention of the Celebrant
THURSDAY January 5 St. John Neumann, bishop
7:00am Intention of the Celebrant
8:30am Bert White +
FRIDAY, January 6 St. Andre Bessette, religious
7:00am Morning Prayer with Communion
8:30am Intention of the Celebrant
SATURDAY, January 7 St. Raymond of Penyafort, priest
8:00am William Weigand + (anniv.)
4:30pm Lucy Golding +
SUNDAY January 8 The Epiphany of the Lord
7:30am Intention of the Celebrant
9:00am Bette Nesline + (anniv.)
11:00am George Horn + and Family

Euchartistic Exposition is January 9 to February 4

2011-12-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

Did you know that the practice of Solemn Annual Eucharistic Exposition has occurred in the Diocese of Cleveland since the mid 1940s? Did you know that every parish is assigned a week in which that exposition is to take place?

Exposition at St. Paul will be during the fourth week of ordinary time–from January 9 through February 4, 2012. Walsh Jesuit High School also will observe at the same time. Exposition will be February 5-11 at Archbishop Hoban High School.

There is regular Eucharistic Adoration at St. Paul on Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Mass for Frances Smith is Wednesday

2011-12-26T06:20:00.001-05:00

AKRON -- Frances Smith passed away peacefully Friday, Dec. 16 at age 86.

Born in Rome, N.Y., she lived in the Rome area until moving to Akron eleven years ago. In Akron, Frances was an active member of the Firestone Park Prime Timers and St. Paul's Church. She resided in Green for the past two years.

She is survived by son, Robert Smith (Connie) of Green.

Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 28th. at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St., Akron with Fr. Ralph Thomas officiating. Please no flowers. Memorials may be made to St. Paul's Catholic Church.
Billow’s FAIRLAWN Chapel, Fairlawn, OH 330-867-4141
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, OH, Monday, December 26, 2011, page B5, col. 4]

Christmas Day Mass at 11 a.m.

2011-12-25T18:19:00.006-05:00

Above are Rita Jubin (left) with Julie and Jozsi Jalics and her grandchildren Marton, Monika and Kristina Jalics.

Karalyn Hugo and Kevin Bord with Casmir, 20 months old, and Sonja, age 6. as they admire the manger scene in the narthex.

Ann West with friends. Brian West, Zachary West and David Sr at the 11 a.m. Mass

(Photos by Tony DiDonato)

Preparing for Christmas at Maurin Center

2011-12-25T18:03:00.003-05:00

St. Paul volunteers were busy accepting food and toys for the Sunday Christmas dinner at the Peter Maurin center. Helping are Lannie shoup, Suzie Gatian, Selena Monzon and Andy Lopez.
(Photos by Tony DiDonato)

St. Paul volunteers load food and items for the Peter Maurin Center. Volunteers are Andi Greer, Paul Boncaldo, Laura Lazar, Paula Adam Selena Monzon, Barbara Naragon and Susie Gatian. They served 100 men, women and children. (Photos by Tony DiDonato)

Mass at 9 a.m. on Christmas Day

2011-12-25T10:44:00.008-05:00

Jenna White, 12, a fourth grader at Manchesdter Middle School, looks at the crib in the narthex. She is the daughter of Dave and Denise White.

Fr. James Berardi, a St. Paul fixture, greets a parishioner after the 9 a.m. Mass on Christmas Day. Fr. Berardi, 77, grew up in Firestone Park on Glenmont, was ordained on May 23, 1959 and celebrated his first Mass on Trinity Sunday in 1959 in the old St. Paul Catholic Church. He celebrates the weekday 7 a.m. Mass

The sanctuary at the 9 a.m. Mass on Christmas Day