Reflection from Fr. Joseph

On Good Friday, a great tragedy occurred in our church. A visitor came in and took the Eucharist and departed without consuming Him. Sadly the priests and deacons didn’t notice this, but a couple parishioners told us they had observed a woman take the Eucharist in her hand, pretend to put Him in her mouth, and then instead put Him in her pocket and walk directly out of church. Whether this was accidental, or due to mental illness or a deliberate action, we do not know – all we can do is pray for that woman and increase our respect and love for the Holy Eucharist.

Monroe is a town that has a particularly high concentration of occult practices – I think of the occult shop on Route 25 in Stepney, or the number of psychics in town, or the woman who recently posted on a Monroe Facebook site that she was a witch and was open for business. For this reason I try to be extra careful with the Blessed Sacrament, since It is (sadly) used frequently in occult practices which seek to desecrate the Lord. If you ever notice someone at Mass who may have taken the Blessed Sacrament back to the pews, please don’t hesitate to (kindly and patiently) ask them either to consume Him or give Him back to a priest or deacon.

As this is the weekend of our First Communions, the Eucharist is on our mind. The Council of Trent defined that we as Catholics should offer latria, the highest form of worship and adoration that is reserved to God alone, to the Holy Eucharist. They made clear that the Eucharist isn’t an “it” but a “He” – a Person, not an object. Thus, to steal and desecrate the Eucharist is to treat the Body of Jesus the same way that His tormentors did, during His Passion.

When I was assigned at Holy Spirit in Stamford, the pastor found a Eucharistic Host on the floor. The following weekend, he blocked off the pews surrounding where the Host was found, and at each Mass we prayed a prayer of reparation for the disrespect (whether accidental or deliberate) that was shown to the Blessed Sacrament.



Over the next nine days – starting today and going until the following Sunday, I will be privately praying the following prayer of reparation: https://www.knightsoftheholyeucharist.com/reparation-to-the-blessed-sacrament-prayer-download/ . I would invite all parishioners who wish, to pray this prayer with me daily for the next nine days.

During this three-year Eucharistic Revival campaign launched by the US Bishops, it’s always good to stir into flame our love for Jesus Christ, truly present yet hidden in the Holy Eucharist!

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

50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Fr. Joseph's 10th Ordination Anniversary to the Priesthood

Thursday, May 25th. 9:00 A.M. Mass

 It is with great joy that we give thanks to God as Fr. Joseph celebrates his 10th Ordination Anniversary to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ!

 All are welcome to join us for Mass and a celebration to follow in the Social Hall.

Feast of Pentecost and Birthday Party

Please join us on Sunday, May 28th for the 11:30 Outdoor Mass and Birthday Party

celebrating Pentecost, the Birthday of the Church, and the beginning of Christian Churches mission to the world!

Birthday cake and refreshments will follow in the Social Hall.

PARISH SOCIAL HALL CLEANUP

Saturday, May 6th, 9:00 A.M.

Last year we made a great start cleaning up the Storage Room in our Parish Social Hall. There is still much more work to be done.

Please join us. VOLUNTEERS WELCOME!

We also ask that someone from each Ministry who uses the Storage Rooms for their various materials join us on Saturday, May 6th at 9:00 A.M.  There are still many signs, posters and boxes that Ministries may want to keep, but anything not labeled or deemed damaged will be disposed of.



We thank our B&G Ministry who will assist in removal of the trash later that day.

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 Saturday Afternoon Pizza & A Movie

The Music Ministry is hosting a Saturday 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

Weekly demand on our pantry continues to be above average. As a result, the items in greatest need at this time are: peanut butter, jelly, oatmeal, pasta, tuna and boxed children's cereal.

Thank you again for your continued support of our ministry!

Dear parishioners,

It was a privilege to bring all of your anonymous prayer intentions to the holy land. Your intentions went to 50 holy sites and touched the birthplace of Jesus, the Basilica of the agony, the via Delarosa, place of Jesus, is crucifixion, the empty tomb in the Jewish Wailing Wall.

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.

“Flowers bring smiles to everyone's faces”.

The Floral Ministry has just launched an Outreach program.  Our mission is to keep our parishioners connected to our church community. We are looking for volunteers who are interested in bringing smiles to our home bound St. Jude parishioners faces.  

It is a “work in progress" but here are some baseline expectations of the ministry, which may evolve as we work together and tweak the process.  Volunteers will:

• be notified by email 
• create small floral arrangements (flowers and container will be provided, flowers from your garden are always welcomed)
• take arrangements to homebound parishioners (list to be provided)
• spend a little time with homebound parishioners, if asked

The frequency of deliveries will be based on availability of flowers. Contact Betty Henn if you are interested in learning more: [email protected], 203-261-0762

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.

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

“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

It is not too late to join! 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 this 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 is the Rosary making event on Thursday 5/25 at 7 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 current book study, 33 Days to Morning Glory by Fr. Michael Gaitley starting this week, email Jessica Iannotta

Youth Encounter and Kid's Club Reminders

Next Encounter tonight 4/28 & 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.

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, Douglas Stanley, Jenn Katz and Marie Signore

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 May is:

We pray through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother, especially by recitation of the Rosary as She has often requested, that peace may be achieved in this increasingly troubled world...

   We pray to the Lord

Upcoming Mass Intentions

Sat   Apr 29        4:00pm                Patrick Ryan

Sun   Apr 30       7:30am                 St Jude Parishioners

Sun   Apr 30        9:30am                 The Pinto and DeAndrade Family

Sun   Apr 30        11:30am               Robert Kilpatrick

Mon  May 1         9:00am                 Hans-Joachim Stierle

Tue   May 2        9:00am                 Peter Fox

Wed  May 3         9:00am                Marie Goss

Thu   May 4         9:00am                 Anthony D’Angelo

Fri    May 5         9:00am                 Maria and Antonio Volpe

Sat   May 6         8:30am                 St Jude Parishioners

Sat   May 6         4:30pm                Isabel Dantas-Teixeira

Sun   May 7        7:30am                 Andrew Henn

Sun   May 7         9:30am                 Christine Grinavic

Sun   May 8         11:30am               Howard Saad

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.