FROM FATHER GERRY’S DESK

Hi Everybody!

This week-end we once again have the opportunity to meet a missionary priest, to hear, firsthand, from him about their ministry in the missions and learn how we can support this very important part of the Church’s work. Jesus gave to His disciples, and to those who would come after them, the task to go into the whole world to proclaim the Good News. The Church, by its very definition is missionary, that is, sent by the Lord into the whole world. Two thousand years later, that is still its mandate, and even though the Church has developed tremendously in some places, in others it is struggling against enormous odds. All of us, as Church, are called upon by the Lord Himself to help bring the gospel to those areas where the Church is struggling. Our spiritual, moral and financial support is the only means for so many of us to answer this call. It is a wonderful blessing and privilege to become missionaries, preaching the Good News to people in faraway places. In this way also, we show the missionaries in those places our appreciation and encouragement, while at the same time becoming, in a very real sense, missionaries ourselves without having to go far away from our homes and our loved ones. You are urged to be especially generous in your response to the missionary’s appeal, your generosity goes beyond the person of the missionary, it is to the Lord Himself, and He will not be outdone in generosity.

God Bless You One and All …….. Father Gerry

STEWARDSHIP SUGGESTION

Have you ever thought of spending just a few hours a week or a month with persons who are alone and lonely or who need a ride to the store, the pharmacy or the church, or who would simply just enjoy an outing to wherever?

STEWARDSHIP INITIATIVE: Sunday Evening Vespers

Vespers, The Evening Prayer of the Church, with Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, are celebrated twice monthly at 6:00 p.m. – on the 2^nd Sunday of the month at St. Peter Church and the 4^th Sunday of the month at Sacred Heart Church. This is an opportunity to join together in prayer and spend a little more time with the Lord than we are obliged to do. Everyone is welcome to join us:

August 10 at St. Peter Church

August 24 at Sacred Heart Church

A Family Perspective

Like Jesus, a parent’s very “flesh” becomes “living bread” when our children see us physically living what we preach. Without values to guide them, our children will always be hungry. Our positive example becomes the “living bread” that will sustain them for a lifetime.

WEEKLY OFFERINGS – AUGUST 2 and 3

ST. PETER PARISH

Offertory $4,244.50 Candles $151.00 Monthly $3,203.00

SACRED HEART PARISH

Offertory $1,890.00 Candles $208 Monthly $613.00

Annual $25.00

ST. PETER’S JUBILEE CLUB WINNERS

$30. - 125 - Cheryl Nowakowski

$20. - 039 - Robert Taylor

$20. - 137 - Leno Trivella

Please pray for the deceased members of our parish families, especially for Edward Sawicki, Edmund Steinke, Julita Boulli, Irene Asklar, Eleanor & Philip Weldon, and Mary Madge Scarpelli Brigeman.

REMEMBER TO PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS ……

Almighty and eternal God,

those who take refuge in you will be glad

and forever will shout for joy.

Protect our servicemen and women

as they discharge their duties.

Protect them with the shield of your strength

and keep them safe from all evil and harm.

May the power of your love

enable them to return home in safety,

that with all who love them

they may ever praise you for your loving care.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

PRO LIFE MINISTRY

“When human babies are not preferred to material possessions, this preference is a sign not of freedom but of servitude. Material possessions are not signs of freedom; children are. The new free will and mind in the world represent that potential innovative force by which the material possessions needed to support us can be invented and come into being in the first place. The child is the parents’ contribution to creation. The ultimate wealth is the human mind and will as it refreshingly comes to be in each new human birth.” -James V. Schall, S.J., Schall on Chesterton, 132-133.

A house filled with material “must haves” is a lonely place. That same house filled with family becomes a home wrapped in love.

THANK YOU to the Patrons of St. Anne and St. Anne Society. During the St. Anne’s Triduum, $215 was collected for all-year vigil lights and Masses for their intentions.

God bless them and St. Anne pray for them!

Sacred Heart/St. Peter Annual Family Picnic

Sunday, September 14 12 – 5 p.m. Elks Club Pond

“TO WALK WITH THOSE WHO MOURN” Facilitator Training For Parish Bereavement Teams - Saturday, September 13 – 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Family Life Office, 412 Ridge Road, Hamden. Presenter: Sister Mauryeen O’Brien, O.P. This is a training workshop for potential facilitators of a nine-week program (“New Day”) or an ongoing support group for the bereaved, to prepare them to aid others to work through the tasks of grief. At the end of the training, participants will have the capacity to facilitate grief ministry within a parish setting. (Please bring brown bag lunch – drinks provided). Registration fee of $10 includes the cost for the training manual. If you are interested in participating in this program, please contact Father Gerry at 482-4433.

ST. EDMUND’S RETREAT DAY TRIP

Final payment for the Day of Recollection at St. Edmund’s Retreat at Enders Island in Mystic, CT on September 23^rd is now being accepted. There are just a few seats left on the second bus. Please call 482-8667 as soon as possible. Deadline for payment is August 29^th. Sponsored by The Franciscan’s, St. Frances Cabrini, and St. Anne’s Society.

Traveling? For nationwide Mass times and locations:

Call Mass Times 1-410-676-6000 or Internet www.Masstimes.org

AT MASS, GIVE GOOD EXAMPLE ……

*Dress appropriately, *Come on time,

*Observe a respectful silence before Mass,

*Participate during the Mass,

*Stay until the end of the final hymn.

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”

--Jn 6:51

AT SACRED HEART

CANDLES Sacred Heart –Emma Lucas, LeJeune Family, Joseph & Anna Lucas, Michael Meyerjack, Stephen Yankovic, Katherine DeAngelo, John A. Zaharek, John Nedorostek, Shauna Troughton, Samantha Troughton, Gerardi Family, DaCosta Family, MTPJ, Ceil Bell (2), (Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Zimmerman, Sr.), (John & Victoria Reges), Vera Fedorich, (Regina & Karen Spiotta), Raymond Kufchak, Nicholas LaGamba, Sr., Alma Dubiel, Rudolph Dubiel, Jacob Sidlosky, Sr., Andrew & Mary Skarupa, P.B.J. Infant of Prague – (Joshua, Kayla, Taylor), John T. McMahon, Colin Troughton, Matthew Troughton. Blessed Mother – (Jim & Vilma Pavlik), Mary Masisak, Theresa Gardiner, Susan Meyerjack, Mary Meyerjack, Betty Zaharek, Michael Dubiel, Mabel Dubiel, (Andrew Zaharek & Son), (Dorothy Zaharek & Family), Mary Zaharek, (Regina & Stephen Serbek), Virginia Carey, Patricia DeAngelo, Julia Zaharek, Bernie Lenart, Sophie Bilas, (Felix & Bertha Pernal), Susan Kozlak, (Joseph Kozlak Family), MABRK, Mary Ann Bouchard, Joanne McMahon, Agatha Troughton, Michael Gerardi, Anna Gerardi, Otti Cook, Mary A. Zaharek (2), Edward Janco, Kevin Janco, (Edward & Anna Kozlak & B.E.D.D.), (William & Anna Schlosky & A.W.), Catherine Sidlosky, Sondra Westerling, Ceil Bell, Anonymous (2). Holy Rosary – Mary Killiany, Mary Kovalcek, John H. Zaharek. Saint Joseph – Joseph Bilas, Victor Lenart, Joseph Kozlak, Michael A. Kozlak, (Deceased Members – Kovalcek Family), John A. Vasko, John H. Zaharek, VMY. Saint Anne – Patrons of St. Anne, Ann Lenart, Anna Sidlosky. Saint Anthony – Frank Janis, Sue Kropp, G.J.T., Ceil Bell (2). Saint Theresa – Theresa Gardiner, Philip Lestinsky, (Albert & Mary Lestinsky, Helen Dubyel, (Brian, Dean, Edward & Diane Kozlak). Saint Jude – Susan Karlowicz, Theresa Gardiner, Anthony Leone, Joy DeAngelo, Matthew DeAngelo, Troughton Family, Michael Killiany, Ceil Bell, Anita Janco, Nicholas Kufchak, Jr., Jacqui Kuzmik. Special Intention – (Jim & Vilma Pavlik), Theresa Gardiner, (Dorothy Zaharek & Family), (Jennifer & Micahel Iacino), (Cathy & Michael Humphrey), Katherine DeAngelo, (Gregory, Gerard & Giles Troughton), Jacob Sidlosky, Jr., Audrey Waldron, Anonymous (1). Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, C.Ss.R. – Stephen Kozlak, Jr., Stephen Kozlak, Sr.

COMMUNION FOR SHUT-INS If you have family members or know of someone at home who would like to receive Communion, please call the Rectory and we will be happy to make arrangements.

CCD REGISTRATION Students who have already been in our program and are returning in the fall should have already received a re-registration form in the mail. The deadline to return these forms was June 30^th. If you are planning to return to our program in the fall, and have not done so already, please submit your registration forms directly to Sr. Annette at St. Peter School, 28 St. John Place, Torrington as soon as possible. If you did not receive a form in the mail, you may call Sister at 489-8735. A registration for new students will be held at the beginning of September.

Dear Friends of Sacred Heart Church,

The Friendly Hands Food Bank would like to thank you for your generous donation. It’s wonderful to know that people like you care!!

AT ST. PETER

SANCTUARY CANDLE

Is being burned in memory of

Anna & August Ponzi & Sr. Florence Rinaldi

and Alfred DeFranceschi, Sr.

ST. PETER’S HOLY ROSARY SOCIETY PRESENTS:

Sergio Franchi Foundation 10^th Annual Young Tenors

Memorial Concert – Saturday, September 6, 2003

On the grounds of the Sergio Franchi Estate, Stonington, CT.

Performances by Sergio Franchi Vocal Scholarship Winners, 30-piece Symphony Orchestra; See Sergio’s home and antique car collection, memorabilia exhibit and Memorial Chapel. Lunch at Abbott’s in Noank. Depart: 9 a.m., Red Lobster, Torrington Plaza. Balance is now due. Please make checks payable to: Vida Bucaccio, 81 Wildwood Rd, Torrington, CT 06790 Six seats are still available. For more information, call Vida at 482-9108. Choice of food: Steamed Lobster, Sole Stuffed with Broccoli & Mozzarella or Herb Roasted Chicken.

WANTED:

Outgoing and friendly personalities

to greet people entering church for weekend Masses.

Time commitment: 15 minutes prior to Mass.

Contact: Rectory at 482-4433.

THE FRANCISCAN’S, ST. FRANCES CABRINI

and ST. ANNE’S SOCIETY – August 2003

The Franciscan’s, St. Frances Cabrini, and St. Anne’s Society will meet on Wednesday, August 13, to pool cars at Sons of Italy Parking Lot on Center Street. Departure from the parking lot at 10:30 and proceed to Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine in Litchfield.

The Rosary will be said at 11:00 followed by Mass at 11:30. Members will enjoy a lunch in Pilgrim Hall after the Mass. Please call 482-8667 to order your lunch.

Please extend an invitation to your neighbor, friend, or relative to join us for a spiritual and relaxing morning. Reminder to wear your society medals.

CATHOLIC YOUTH MINISTRY

For those students in the Youth Ministry Program we are planning to go tubing on the Farmington River, Monday, August 11 in the afternoon and then coming back to the office for a picnic. The group rate for 10 or more is $10 for tubing. If interested in attending, please email with your name and phone number. Or, you may call 860-489-1108 & ask for Tim.

Browse our website at www.torringtoncatholics.org and click on Catholic Youth Ministry of Torrington.

A Day at Lake Compounce

All students in Grades 8-12 are invited to join us for a day of fun at Lake Compounce on Wednesday, August 20. The cost is $25 per person and includes transportation.

We will depart from Sacred Heart Parking Lot at 10:00 a.m. and return at 6:00 p.m. Please call Judy Bellemare, 489-7899 immediately to register. Deadline for turning in permission slip and $25 fee (make checks payable to Catholic Youth Ministry of Torrington) is Sunday, August 17.

National Catholic Youth Conference

Our Youth Ministry will be attending the National Catholic Youth Conference, “River of Life,” November 13-16, 2003 in Houston, Texas. Over 25,000 young people from around the country will participate in this fun-filled, educational faith experience. There will be Keynotes, prayer, reconciliation, liturgy, concerts, workshops, interactive games and activities and time to spend learning more about you, our God and other like-minded Catholic young people. For more information and/or if you are interested in attending, please call Judy Bellemare at 489-7899.

DIOCESAN and COMMUNITY EVENTS

VOCATIONS The divine presence is often symbolized in the bread and wine, water, oil, candles, fire and light. However, each of us must be a living sign and symbol of God’s presence within us. If you think God is calling you to serve the Church as a priest, call Rev. Al Fontana at the Archdiocesan Vocation Office, St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield, CT, 1-860-286-7670.

HOLY APOSTLES COLLEGE and SEMINARY, Cromwell, is accepting registrations for the Fall semester which begins September 2. Courses offered: Pastoral Studies, Religious Education, Liturgy, Liturgical Music, Scripture, Church History, Theology, and Philosophy. Evening, afternoon & morning classes may be taken for personal enrichment, credit towards undergraduate & graduate degrees, & for certificates. To those who qualify, Financial Aid is available. VA Benefits are accepted. Information/Registration 860 632-3033.

HOLY HOUR at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, Goshen to commemorate the anniversary of the appearances of our Blessed Mother at Fatima: 12:00 Noon Wednesday, August 13; Saturday, September 13; Monday, October 13. Everyone is welcome.

ST. CASIMIR CHURCH 9^th ANNUAL FAIR Sunday, August 24 – 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., rain or shine – Terryville Fairgrounds – Polish & American foods, live polka music & much more – Free Admission.

AFTERNOON FOR CAREGIVERS OF THE BEREAVED at Mercy Center, Madison – Sunday, October 5, from 1 to 4 p.m. Information or to register: (203) 245-0401.

Sunday, August 10, 2003

Vespers – 6:00 p.m. – St. Peter Church

Sunday, August 17, 2003

Baptisms – Following 10:30 a.m. Mass – St. Peter Church

ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

HOLY DAY MASS SCHEDULE – August 14 and 15

Sacred Heart: Thursday Vigil 5:30 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m.

St. Peter: Friday 6:45 & 9:00 a.m., 7:00 p.m.

St. Francis: Thursday Vigil 7:00 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. & 12:10 p.m.

St. Mary: Friday 5:30 p.m.

WEEKEND MASS SCHEDULE

St. Francis: 4:00 p.m. Saturday Vigil

7:00 & 10:15 a.m. Sunday

St. Peter: 4:00 p.m. Saturday Vigil

7:30 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday

St. Mary: No Saturday Vigil

8:00 & 11:30 a.m. Sunday

Sacred Heart: 5:00 p.m. Saturday Vigil

9:00 a.m. Sunday

Lord, our help and guide,

make your love the foundation of our lives. May our love for you express itself in our eagerness to do good for others.

Readings for the Week of August 10, 2003

Sunday: 1 Kgs 19:4-8; Eph 4:30—5:2; Jn 6:41-51

Monday: Dt 10:12-22; Mt 17:22-27

Tuesday: Dt 31:1-8; Mt 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

Wednesday: Dt 34:1-12; Mt 18:15-20

Thursday: Jos 3:7-10a, 11, 13-17; Mt 18:21—19:1

Friday: Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab; 1 Cor 15:20-27; Lk 1:39-56

Saturday: Jos 24:14-29; Mt 19:13-15

Next Sunday: Prv 9:1-6; Eph 5:15-20; Jn 6:51-58

PARISH UPDATE

NAME ____________________________________________

ADDRESS ____________________________________________

PHONE ____________________________________________

PARISH ____________________________________________

PLEASE CHECK ONE:

______ New Registration ______ Change of Address

______ Moving Out of Parish ______ Would Like Envelopes

______ Homebound

Would like someone to visit / bring Holy Communion

Please drop in the collection basket or mail to the Rectory.

New registrations will receive a census form.

MASS INTENTIONS for the WEEK

Sat. 8/9 4:00 p.m. St. Peter

- Anthony Cetra by Wife & Daughter

- Lindy Bigliazzi by Gene & Helen Kaufmann

- Alfred Colaciello by Tony & Vera Troccolo

5:00 p.m. Sacred Heart

- Susan Lach & Theresa Ruzbasan by M/M Andrew Lach, Jr. & Daughters

- Andrew & Anna Amrich, George & Gertrude Zamkovsky by Family

- Monica Kosarcik by Husband & Family

Sun. 8/10 7:30 a.m. St. Peter

- Theresa & Charles Moranino by Rose & Lon Moranino

- For Parishioners

9:00 a.m. Sacred Heart

- Sophie Zbuska by Daughter Sophie

- Lawrence Michna

- Mary (Zimmerman) Brady by Toni Landor & Family

10:30 a.m. St. Peter

- Yolanda Alduini by Friends

- Alfred DeFranceschi, Sr. by Daughter

- Robert J. Lariviere by Family

Mon. 8/11 7:00 a.m. St. Peter

- Franceschina Iamonaco by John & Helen Marcantonio

Tues. 8/12 7:00 a.m. St. Peter

- Domenico Antonio, Lucia & Son Emidio Gatta by Belinda Melaragno

- John Pappalardo by Debbie & Ed Murphy & Family

Wed. 8/13 7:00 a.m. St. Peter

- Sister Mary Freda & Sister Mary Bertrand by Ann Machuga

Thur. 8/14 7:00 a.m. St. Peter

- Dolores Rubbo by Husband & Children

- Reverend Peter F. Lenox by Mom

5:30 p.m. Sacred Heart Assumption Vigil Mass

- Marguerite Lucas by Husband & Children

Fri. 8/15 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary- Holy Day of Obligation

6:45 a.m. St. Peter

- Norma Martigneni by Family

8:00 a.m. Sacred Heart

- George & Richard Tebecio, Rita & Lisa Bado by Mary Tebecio

9:00 a.m. St. Peter

- Joseph DiPippo by Family

7:00 p.m. St. Peter

- Reverend John P. D’Alonges

Sat. 8/16 7:00 a.m. St. Peter

- Filipina Sirianni Graziano by Rosemary & Frank Graziano & Family

4:00 p.m. St. Peter

- Giovanni & Assunta Rossi by Son Pasquale Rossi

- Joseph Recidivi by Croci Family

- Anniversary Mass for Roland & Geraldine Spino

by Thomas, Laurie & Joseph

5:00 p.m. Sacred Heart

- Joan Ferencak by Husband & Daughter

- Catherine Sidlosky by Jacob Sidlosky, Jr.

- Mae McAuliffe by Sacred Heart Altar Society

Sun. 8/17 7:30 a.m. St. Peter

- Rocco, Hilda & Mary Parente by Family

- Anthony & Josephine Christiano, Elisa & Franca Pullano by Family

- Rose “Tootsie” Smedick by Sledesky Family

- For Parishioners

9:00 a.m. Sacred Heart

- John A. Vasko & Sister Mary Vasko by Joseph Vasko

- Thomas & Anna Novajosky by Family

- Henrietta Nicolae by Margaret Shuhi

10:30 a.m. St. Peter

- Deceased Members Antonio DeAngelo Family by Charles DeAngelo

- Lucy & Frank Lovallo by Children

- Maria & Peter Borla & Deceased Members of Borla Family by Family