The Ascension of the Lord
May 17th, 2026

Within the axis of Ascension and Pentecost, today’s scriptures offer insight to how the community reacted to the absence of Jesus. In the selection from Acts, it is reported that the apostles with some women disciples returned to the “place where they were staying” and devoted themselves to prayer.

The selection from First Peter again encourages the community to enter into suffering as a redemptive practice and not return insult for insult. Any who give offense to a Christian are to be loved and embraced; the suffering, a chance to grow closer to Christ. John’s gospel gives us the prayer of Jesus before his suffering and death. The oratio of Jesus acknowledges that he has come from the Father and will return to the Father, however, it is the disciples and Christian community that will be responsible for making Christ known in the world. The Christian community is in the world but not of the world, thus marking them as special in God’s eyes and having a special part in the salvation history as the Church grew. This prayer is a signal of church which will, in Johanine theology be born from the blood and water that poured from Jesus’ side after his death on the cross.

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Fr. Lajack marks his 60th Anniversary of Ordination on Sunday, May 24th, at the 12 noon Mass at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Avon. All are warmly invited to attend this joyful occasion and share in a reception following Mass. (Information from Deacon Dan Hancock)

Set up a mass by filling out the form on our website (click picture above and scroll to Mass Request), or call the rectory 216.696.1926 or send an email to office@stwendelincleveland.org with the month/day you prefer.

Pray for the health of Barb Geffert, Richard and Sheryl Carroll, Judy Thiede, Jenny Weaver, Linda Pacanosky, Dennis Vok, Denise Turner, Nancy Simala, Jane Hilf, Terry Chura, Red Rodio, Frank Novak, Steve Dabrowski, Larry Blasius, Roselyn Cowell, Fr. Kropac and for many special intentions for strength, mercy and healing.

Reply to this email to add a name or intention to our list.

What can YOU do to help? Become a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, a Server or an Usher. Send an email to office@stwendelincleveland.org with your name and the ministry you're interested in helping with.

➡️ Join the Moriah House Meals Group that prepares a hot meal for the residents of the WSCC's Moriah House. On the 3rd Saturday of every month, meet up in the STW parking lot with prepared foods to deliver. You don't have to participate every month. To join this great service group, text or call Carol at 2164104068.

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You can make a gift to our parish using your IRA

As Christian stewards, we are called to help make our Church a strong community of faith and a beacon of service to others. This includes supporting the financial needs of today while ensuring a stable foundation for the future. One way to contribute is through your IRA. If you are 70 ½ or older, you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) of up to $108,000 directly from your IRA to your parish. This gift will not be taxable income and can satisfy your required minimum distribution (RMD). Looking ahead, you might also consider naming our parish as a beneficiary of your IRA. Click here for more details, consult your financial advisor or contact Mary Lou Ozimek at 216-696-6525 x4070.

Listen to all things Catholic at AM 1260 The Rock here. Deepen your and your family’s faith, AM 1260 The Rock offers daily Mass, devotionals, apologetics, and much more. Don’t forget about AM 1260 The Rock’s own Wisdom From The Rock, where you can hear Daily Gospel Reflections from local priests and deacons, special interviews, and more.

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