Reflection from Fr. Joseph

Helena Kowalska appeared at the door of the convent, with no possessions or money to her name, asking to be admitted. The nun in charge took one look at her shabby dress, and responded, “We don’t need any maids here.” And the door was closed in her face. Yet another rejection for a poor girl who wanted nothing more than to give her life to God.

Yet, undaunted, she tried yet another convent, the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy in Warsaw, Poland. This time, the Mother Superior allowed her to enter, on the condition that she paid for her own habit (religious dress). She worked for months to save up enough money, and at long last, in 1926 she entered the convent, against the wishes of her parents and with no other “back-up plans”.

Her life in the convent was rather unremarkable. She took her first vows in 1928 and worked in the kitchen, cleaned the convent, worked in the garden, and spent long hours in prayer and sacrifice…until something amazing happened in 1931. She had just returned to her cell when she had a stunning vision of Jesus standing before her, rays of red and white emanating from His chest. He told her that He wanted a devotion of Divine Mercy to spread throughout the Church, for in this most warlike and sinful of centuries, mankind needed nothing less than the overwhelming mercy of God.

Sr. Faustina, as she was known in the convent, told no one about the visions for two years. Finally, having transferred to another convent, she shared her secret visions with a priest, Fr. Sopocko. Initially, Fr. Sopocko was skeptical, and ordered her to be evaluated by psychiatrists. But when they gave her a clean bill of mental health, the priest became Sr. Faustina’s biggest supporter. He arranged for an image of the Divine Mercy to be painted (which we can see displayed in St. Jude’s Church), preached about Divine Mercy, and spread devotion as far as he could.

The poor, simple Sr. Faustina, for her part, compiled all of her visions and conversations with Jesus into a Diary (called “Divine Mercy In My Soul”) which has since become a Catholic classic and bestseller.

Sr. Faustina lived only long enough to see the devotion begin to spread. After her holy death at the age of 33, the cause continued until the devotion to the Divine Mercy became church-wide. It was another Polish saint, Pope St. John Paul II, who officially made the second Sunday of Easter into Divine Mercy Sunday (he also canonized his fellow countrywoman, St. Faustina!).

In addition to the Image and the Diary, there is also the beautiful tradition of praying the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, which is a set of prayers prayed on a Rosary. We will be praying/singing it together this Sunday at 3pm, along with Adoration and Confessions for the great feast. Jesus made amazing promises to St. Faustina for those who venerate the Image, celebrate the Feast, or pray the Chaplet – check out these beautiful promises here:https://www.churchpop.com/2020/11/27/14-amazing-promises-jesus-made-to-those-who-pray-the-divine-mercy-chaplet/

Join us this Sunday as we honor Jesus’ greatest post-Resurrection gift to us: His Mercy!

THANK YOU!!

What a beautiful Triduum and Easter! I am most grateful for all of our parishioners, visitors, and guests who made it such a special time. Many people worked a long time behind-the-scenes to make this an amazing Holy Week...it's now time to bring them into the light to thank them properly! So, a particular thank-you to the following people:

Bernice Freeman, our secretary, who helped behind-the-scenes to prepare candles, print binders, and answer questions about what time Easter Masses were!

Denny Ritch, who was in charge of the Easter fire and making sure many of the liturgical implements were ready to go.

Wendy Gurski who made the beautiful canopy that we used for Holy Thursday.

Cathy Ritch, Diane Ganser, Bonnie Thibodeau, Betty Henn, and the Floral Ministry who spent countless hours setting up our beautiful decorations for every liturgy.

Deacons David and John, for their tireless efforts being present this weekend to lead prayer services, bless food, lead Stations, and assist at Masses. Deacon David also spent many months preparing our RCIA candidates for their Sacraments this weekend.

Lou Vollono and our Choir who rehearsed, led us in song, and glorified God through music this weekend.

Our Lectors and Altar Servers who dignified the liturgies through their liturgical service.

Karin Tierney, who helped prepare us for Easter through a beautiful and moving Seder Meal.

Fr. Claudiu whose hard work made for a beautiful Good Friday service.

The Knights of Columbus, who were willing to carry the canopy and help set up and take down chairs in the Social Hall, along with leading the Outdoor Stations of the Cross.

John Melnikov, who organized large parts of the Tenebrae service.

Peter Blair and Donna Cramond, who led the triumphant return of our Living Stations tradition here at St. Jude's, providing us a powerful meditation on Christ's Passion and death - thank you to the whole cast and crew!

Al Melissano, who helps keep the Holy Thursday liturgy flowing smoothly and always provides for ushering at our 11:30am Masses.

Jessica Iannotta, Mary Beth Rauser, and Anita Flynn for preparing the books to be distributed at Easter.

I'm sure I'm missing someone...if so, my apologies!! But, as we can see, it truly takes an entire parish to help us worship God fittingly and beautifully. Thank you everyone for such a wonderful Holy Week and Easter - Christ is risen indeed!

Sincerely,

Fr. Joseph

Saturday Rosary Sign up.

We have a wonderful way to prepare for Saturday Mass and that is to say the Rosary before Mass starts. We start 30 minutes before Mass so we start at 3:30 every Saturday.

Please join us as we pray. Also, please prayerfully consider joining this ministry.

If you would like to join you can sign up at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4aa8ad2fa6fccf8-saturday#/

We look forward to you joining us as we pray the Rosary together.

It is with great joy that we invite you to participate in the many celebrations and activities planned throughout this coming year to celebrate our Parish 50th Anniversary. Please see the Schedule of planned events on our website. https://www.stjuderc.org/50-years.html

St Jude's 50th Anniversary Committee announces a

50th Anniversary Apparel Fundraiser!

We have many great items to choose from - hats, shirts, t-shirts, sweatshirts, fleeces, polos and more. Adult and Youth sizes are available. You can easily order online and everything is estimated to arrive at St. Jude's for pickup the week of May 29th.

The deadline to order is is May 1, 2023. Order now so you get your items in time for all of our coming Parish celebrations!

Questions or need help ordering online? Email Jessica Iannotta

One In Christ – The 2023 Bishop’s Appeal

Your gifts at work

Future priests of the Diocese of Bridgeport receive comprehensive formation in theology, pastoral ministry, personal growth, and, most importantly, the spiritual life at seminaries chosen by the Bishop to best suit the needs of the seminarian and of the diocese. Preparation for the Priesthood takes anywhere from six to eight years, depending on the age and educational background of the man when he enters. All of our seminarians receive graduate degrees in theology prior to their ordination.  Through your generous gift to the Bishop's Appeal, the Diocese will be better able to support men who are discerning priesthood and may respond generously and courageously to that call. 

Thank you for your gift.

To make a gift, or for more information, please visit us at 2023BishopsAppeal.org, call (203) 416-1470 or scan with your phone.

Annual Bishop's Appeal Brochure and Home QR

Parish News

Notes From the Music Ministry

Music Ministry Sunday Afternoon Pizza & A Movie

The Music Ministry is hosting a Sunday afternoon Pizza & a Movie in the Church Hall on SATURDAY May 6th after the 4:30 P.M. Mass.  We will be showing the acclaimed film "I Can Only Imagine" based upon the life and times of the man who wrote the amazing and moving song that has sold millions of copies worldwide. This is the story of how that song came to be: "Growing up in Greenville, Texas, Bart Millard suffers physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his father, Arthur. When Arthur becomes terminally ill, he finds redemption by embracing his faith and rediscovering his love for his son. Years later, Bart's troubled childhood and mended relationship with his dad inspires him to write the hit song "I Can Only Imagine" as singer of the Christian band MercyMe." It was through music that Bart found his own redemption and was able to make peace with his troubled past. When the film was released in 2018, one reviewer wrote: " I saw it for the first time tonight, although I've been loving the song for years. It was cathartic. I didn't bawl, but I teared up quite a bit at several points. The amazing grace and love of God and the life changing power of forgiveness through Christ were on full display. Amazing how God works through our worst circumstances to bring about our best outcomes!" During this season of Easter, come and watch a real-life account of God's power of forgiveness and redemption. The film is riveting and moving at the same time. It will be a fun time had by all ages. The film is rate PG due to some strong themes. Bring the entire family and make it a great afternoon! Again, pizza will be provided along with popcorn and soda.

Please RSVP to the parish office so me may have an accurate count for planning by Friday, April 21 and/or email our Director of Music, Lou Vollono at [email protected]

The Knights of Columbus will once again sponsor the Domingo Arribas Memorial Needs Drive on Saturday April 29, 2023 from 8:00am to 10:30am. Your donated items of Food, Clothing, Diapers, & Wipes can be brought to the front of Monsignor Sabia Social Hall. They will be distributed to the St Jude pantry, Blessed Sacrament parish, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, & Hopeline. 



Although the coronavirus has lessened, we still have certain limitations on items being collected so please refer to the attached flyer (click on image on the right). To minimize contact & ease of distribution, we ask that you label the contents of your donated items in bags & boxes brought in your vehicles. WE ARE NOT COLLECTING FURNITURE ITEMS for this drive!!! Any questions, please contact Rocky Scali at 203-767-6053 or Frank Flynn at 203-556-5016.

Food Pantry Update

Our Easter distribution was successfully completed. Thank you to all who responded to our requests. As a result, we were able to provide an Easter meal and additional groceries to fourteen families. 

We now need to restock for our regular weekly requirements. Items in greatest need at this time are tuna, pasta, canned fruit, oatmeal and boxed children's cereal. As always, your generosity is appreciated. Please also see the note regarding the Knights of Columbus Needs Drive on April 29th for additional items to be shared with Blessed Sacrament. 

Feed my People

A St. Jude ministry, "Feed my People" as named by the founders, Hank and Kathy Banville, is active every day of the year. Each morning one of the members picks up excess and day old bread from the Purdy Hill Bakery, Stop and Shop and very soon from Panera's.

The food (mostly bread, some sweets and some miscellaneous items from the deli in the S&S) is taken to multiple locations across Bridgeport, depending on the day. Among them are Bridgeport Rescue Mission, \Merton House, Homes for the Brave, St. George, St. Charles, Blessed 

Sacrament and Missionaries of Charity.

The photo is of a recent day when Bob Blackwell had his granddaughter 

along as his assistant. Contact Kathy Banville ([email protected])

 for more information.

Hopeline Pregnancy Center has a need for disposable diapers. They are currently low on sizes 4, 5 & 6 and baby wipes. Should you wish to help you can leave the diapers in the outer vestibule of the church. Monetary donations, with checks made out to the Hopeline Pregnancy Center, as well as gift cards from Amazon, Target and grocery stores are most welcome. As always, your continued support is greatly appreciated.

The Columbiettes of Saint Pope John XXIII of Auxiliary #5987 cordially invite you to a virtual tea party fundraiser to support our charitable works. After all masses the weekend of April 22 and 23, 2023, members of the Columbiettes will be distributing invitations to parishioners.

Each envelope includes a tea bag, a request for prayer response card and return envelope. Please write the names of your loved ones, living or deceased that you would like us to include in prayer. At the Columbiettes’ May meeting we will pray a rosary and include the names of all your intentions.

Please return the response card with your donation by May 6th. You can drop in the basket at mass, drop off at the parish office or mail to:

St Jude Columbiettes

707 Monroe Turnpike

Monroe, CT 06468

We appreciate all your support.

MAGNIFICAT a Ministry to Catholic Women invites you to our 20th Anniversary prayer breakfast on Saturday April 22nd, 9:30-12:30 at Ethan Allen Hotel, 25 Lake Avenue, Danbury CT. 

Our Guest speaker, Fran Fraleigh Karpiej, OFS will share her testimony and lifelong ministry and devotion to God. 

Cost $25.00 per person, reservations required by April 8, 2023. No tickets will be sold at the door. For more information, please call

Carol Flynn  203-775-3875 or email  [email protected]

Invitation is available by clicking here or in the Women's Ministry Section of the Diocese of Bridgeport website.  

Tickets are available on Eventbrite or Use your phone camera, hover over QR Code and it will take you directly to Eventbrite to register for the Breakfast

Tickets are available on Eventbrite or Use your phone camera, hover over QR Code and it will take you directly to Eventbrite to register for the Breakfast

Bring home Saint Jude's traveling statue of the Holy Family. Materials will be included to do a 7-day preparation for Consecration to the Holy Family. To learn more, visit: https://afc.org/family-consecration/ May God bless you and your family through the intercession of the Holy Family!

We need families for the weeks of 5/28 and 6/4

Sunday is the Feast of Mercy, the day the Lord promises great graces for those who turn to Him with trust for mercy, forgiveness, healing, and restoration. Jesus told St. Faustina: "My daughter, tell the whole world about My inconceivable mercy. I desire that the Feast of Mercy be a refuge and shelter for all souls, and especially for poor sinners. On that day the very depths of My tender mercy are open. I pour out a whole ocean of graces upon those souls who approach the Fount of My Mercy."

All of your sins and all the punishment due for them (Purgatory time) can be completely wiped away. And not only that! Jesus also promises that on this day, "all the divine floodgates through which graces flow are opened," meaning you can ask for all kinds of blessings such as physical and spiritual healings, reconciliations, financial solutions, and more. Jesus promises, “In this hour [3:00 pm], I will refuse nothing to the soul that makes a request of Me in virtue of My Passion." In this hour you can obtain everything for yourself and for others for the asking. 

Join our Holy Hour and prayer service at 3:00 PM this Sunday April 16th. Confession will be available and there will be a reception afterwards in the Social Hall. Please bring your families and take advantage of this great day of grace!

Do you want to learn more about the history of

Divine Mercy? Do you enjoy documentaries?

Watch Divine Mercy and the Second Greatest Story Ever Told

on Formed.org!

Renowned speaker and author Fr. Michael Gaitley tells the dramatic history of God's love and mercy as interwoven through the transformative message of St. Faustina, the miraculous appearance of Mary at Fatima, the witness of Maximilian Kolbe, and the world-changing papacy of Pope St. John Paul II.

“Reclaiming Friendships”

Walking with Purpose Bible Study

 “Reclaiming Friendship” is a six-session Bible study from Walking with Purpose. It integrates Scripture with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church to answer the core question, “What is God’s vision for friendship, and how can I experience it?”

Wednesdays, April 26 – May 31, 6-7:30 PM

Fridays, April 28 – June 2, 9:30-11 AM

Register at: https://www.osvhub.com/st-jude-church-monroe/forms/wwp2023-1 Questions?

Contact Annette Bonomo at [email protected] or MaryBeth Rauser at [email protected]

Cost for book - $20

Join us and meet other young couples and learn 7 Steps to a Superabundant Marriage - a series of talks to enhance your marriage and your spirituality. There is no cost.

First meeting will be Sunday, April 30, 5:30-7:00 PM in the St Jude Social Hall. Pizza and wine will be served.

RSVP: Mike Bonomo phone/text 203-257-3224. Email: [email protected]

Please indicate if childcare needed at the event.

2023

CAMP ADORE

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Summer with the Sacred Heart

June 26-30, 2023 8:30 am to 12:30 pm

for children entering Grades 1-6.

This year's theme is "Summer with the Sacred Heart"

To register click here. Space is filling quickly - sign up early to secure a spot!

Email Jessica Iannotta if you are an adult or teen interested in volunteering or helping with preparation or donations.

Mom's Group Announcements

Next meeting Thursday 4/27 at 7:30 pm

Our next monthly mother's Zoom rosary is Wednesday 5/3 at 9 pm and will continue on the first Wednesday of every month e-mail Jessica Iannotta for more information.

If you would like to join our next book study, 33 Days to Morning Glory by Fr. Michael Gaitley starting at the end of April, email Jessica Iannotta

Youth Encounter and Kid's Club Reminders

Next Encounter tonight 4/14 & Kid's Club 5/7

Red Cross Blood Donation drive

The Knights of Columbus Council 5987 will again sponsor a Red Cross Blood Donation drive on Saturday, May 13 in the Monsignor Sabia Social Hall.. The drive runs from 9 AM until 2 PM. All parishioners age 18 and above are welcome to donate. Also, tell a friend. The earlier you sign up, the more slots are available.

Here is how you can make an appointment. Go to the ARC blood donation web site,https://www.redcrossblood.org/. Click “donate blood”, insert the zip code 06468 and then click “find a drive”. In the filter area, select and click “refine search” and then click “Choose my dates”. When the calendar comes up, click on May 13, 2023 and our drive should appear. From there, you can schedule your own appointment.

You can also email Frank Flynn at [email protected]. Let him know a preferred time and he will insert your name.



Hope to see you there.

The Columbiettes is an organization of Catholic women dedicated to our Patronesses, Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Theresa the Little Flower and St. Joan of Arc. This national organization is comprised of auxiliaries that are affiliated with the Knights of Columbus Councils.

Our local Columbiettes auxiliary will be holding our spring new member initiation at the Tuesday, April 11 meeting. The meeting starts at 7pm. We meet monthly on the 2^nd Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Monthly meeting attendance is preferred but not mandatory if you're tied up on Tuesday. You can still participate in the various charitable, social and religious activities throughout the year.  

Any ladies interested in more information about Columbiettes should write to us at [email protected] or call Helen at 203-767-6486. 

We meet at the St Jude social hall, but membership is not limited to St Jude parishioners.

Please remember in your daily prayers:

Marge Tranzillo, David Nicolett, Maria Bertone, Marie Micholovich, Vincent Daniello, Dyana vander Wielen, Joe Pinto, Zoey Frigo, Daniel Louis Bianco, Max, Hung Vu, Alfred Zawadski, Dr. John Kezel, Joseph Sheridan, Francisca Testa & family, Catherine Belanger, Stephen Henn, Manny Cambra, Bennett Gulyas, Tom Pleva, James Buturla, Violeta Shala, Vito Melfi, Paul Verespej, Patti F. , Anne DeVita, Anna Harper, Jack Lane, Robert Freeman, Frank Kerekes, Marian Nanchy, Rose C., Joseph T., Rosario Pacheco, Antonia Tedeschi, Charles Metoyer, Liz Guaglianone, Tip B., Mary McDonald

All healthcare workers, first responders, caregivers and the men and women in the military.

If you have anyone that you would like to add to the list, please call the office or email with the name to be added.

Please join us in praying our Monthly Parish Intention.

Our Petition for April is:



We pray for an end to violence in our World, especially in our schools, and for improved mental health care in our Country....

    We pray to the Lord 

Upcoming Mass Intentions

Sat   Apr 15        4:00pm                Jennifer Cannon

Sun   Apr 16       7:30am                 Andrew and Angela Vill

Sun   Apr 16        9:30am                 St Jude Parishioners

Sun   Apr 16        11:30am               James McGrath

Mon  Apr 17        9:00am                 Bill Thibodeau

Tue   Apr 18       9:00am                 Peggy Lawlor

Wed  Apr 19        9:00am                George Hulton

Thu   Apr 20        9:00am                 Mary Dunne

Fri    Apr 21        9:00am                 John Rauser

Sat   Apr 22        4:00pm                Ginny Jessup

Sun   Apr 23       7:30am                 St Jude Parishioners

Sun   Apr 23        9:30am                 John J. Tuccio

Sun   Apr 23        11:30am               In Thanksgiving – Al and Rita Melissano

The Tabernacle Candle will burn in memory of Andrew Henn during the month of April

Weekday Masses will be in the main Church at 9 am and live streamed.

The Weekend Masses inside the Church are Saturday at 4:00 pm and Sunday at 7:30, 9:30 and 11:30. Only the Saturday Mass at 4:00 pm and the Sunday 7:30 am and 9:30 Masses are live streamed.

(Live-streamed Masses may be viewed at https://www.stjuderc.org/view-masses.html )

Holy Trinity Catholic Academy

503 Shelton Avenue

Shelton, CT

For more information, go to:

www.holytrinitycatholicacademy.org

or call: 203-929-4422

Pre-K 3 through 8^th Grade

Men’s Bible Study

All men are invited to join for a discussion-based Bible Study on Saturday mornings at 8am in the School Meeting Room beginning September 17, as we study the Sunday readings. For more information, contact Bob Lux at [email protected].

Mary's Messengers Prayer Group . Since RE is finished for the year, a new time will be announced soon.

We learn to say the Rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet, and other special prayers for the intentions of our families and Parish.

Flame of Love Rosary

Thursday mornings after 9 am Mass

"Spread the effect of grace of thy Flame of Love over all of humanity"

flameoflove.us

St. Jude Religious Gift Shop is located downstairs in the Msgr. Sabia Social Hall. Fr. Joseph's Books and CD's are available in the Gift Shop. Also new items: Communion Gifts and cards, statues, rosaries and more.



Come in and browse. Call Fran Cambra 203-261-2573 or Parish Office 203-261-6404.

Confession Hours

Confessions on Saturday afternoon will be in the day chapel at 3:00 pm on Saturdays.  We are now offering Confession Weekend every first weekend of the month! Come take advantage of God's great mercy by coming to the Sacrament of Confession, offered before AND after every Mass.

Confessions are also by appointment, please call 203-261-6404, to set up an appointment or email the office.