THE SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD JANUARY 5, 2014

1. THE SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD JANUARY 5, 2014 “The Magi set out because of a deep desire which prompted them to leave everything and begin a journey. It was as though they had always been waiting for that star” (Pope Benedict XVI). Our response to the Father’s offer of salvation is that of the Magi: “To offer gold is to proclaim Christ’s kingship, to offer incense is to adore his Godhead, and to offer myrrh is to acknowledge his mortality” (Saint Odilo of Cluny). Creation responds as well: “When the king of heaven was born, the heavens knew that he was God because they immediately sent forth a star; the sea knew him because it allowed him to walk upon it; the earth knew him because it trembled when he died; the sun knew him because it hid the rays of its light” (Saint Gregory the Great). The manifestation of the Son of God to the world begs belief from us by which we will be led home by another way. the story of the three visitors to Bethlehem. Following the star, they come to offer gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Aided by the first two readings, we can open up the meaning of this vignette. God is present in our history. This is a gift for all. Whether arriving on dromedaries from Midian and Ephah or bearing gold and frankincense from Sheba, whole nations shall walk by this light. In the early Church, this meant that Gentiles would have to be seen as co- heirs with the Jews, members of the same body. // Enjoying the memories and mystery of this day should thus be more than thinking about the three kings. It is also far more important than any technical debate about the translation of “magi” (Greek). They have been called kings, wise men, or astrologers. In any event they signal a day to celebrate God’s manifestation in Christ Jesus. When we celebrate Epiphany we face the mystery of Christ's identity and our response in faith. Because this revelation is universal, we are presented with a further challenge. Do we treat some as “outsiders” as if we were not co-heirs? Do we act as if epiphany were for a few? ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST PARISH MINERSVILLE, PA www.StMatthewTheEvangelistParish.org Rectory Office Hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM Phone: (570) 544-2211 Fax: (570) 54-2317 SAINT MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST WELCOMES ALL No matter what your present status in the Catholic Church; no matter what your current family or marital situation; no matter what your past or present religious affiliation; no matter what your personal history, age, background, race, ethnicity, etc.; you are Invited, Welcomed, Accepted, Loved and Respected at Saint Matthew the Evangelist Parish!’ SAFE ENVIRONMENT COORDINATOR: Sr. Meg Cole(610-289-8900x222) VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR: Wendy S. Krisak (1-800-791-9209) WEEKDAY MASS AT 8:00 AM MON – Francis and Beatrice Stine by Family TUE – John Santarelli by M/M Alphonse Santarelli WED – Raymond Yelchak by Andruchek Family THU – Germaine Newton by Jean and Gene Walacavage FRI – Helen O’Connor by Molly and Helene SAT – 4:00 PM – Bernice Rayos by Aldona and Ed Butler SUN – 7:00 AM – Living and Deceased Parishioners 9:00 AM – Fritz Doran by Ellen Doran and Family 11:00 AM – Jill Kuehn by Keuhn Family ******************************************************************************************************************************************** REQUIESCNT IN PACE: May Jesus, our Incarnate Savior, welcome into His eternal Realm ETHEL A. MCGOVERN, a former member of the former St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish, and a member of our Parish Family, who died Friday, December 27, and whose funeral service was held Monday, December 30. May Mary, Mother of God, obtain comfort from Jesus, Her Son, for Ethel’s family and friends! ******************************************************************************************************************************************* THE WEEKLY CALENDAR: Behold, the Lord, the Mighty One, has come;/ and kingship is in his grasp, and power and dominion. (Cf. Mal 3:1; 1 Chr 29:12) SUNDAY, January 5 – THE SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD – THREE KINGS SUNDAY: To honor the Magi, their gifts to the Christ Child, Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh (and chalk for the traditional Epiphany Home Blessing) will be blessed at all masses. Packets of these gifts will be available for home use. The offering is $1.00 per pack. Preserve this beautiful tradition! SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 6:30AM and 10:45AM. THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS(FPC): Jesus told us to ask the Harvest Master to send laborers into his harvest. We hope the prayers of our participating families will bear fruit. May God be attentive to TERESA MILLER who will host the Family Prayer Chalice for Vocations this week. Sign up in Church Vestibule for February or call 570-399-5056. FAMILY PERSPECTIVE: Today’s gospel tells us “all Jerusalem” was up- set because “King Herod was deeply troubled.” A similar ripple effect happens in families; one person’s negative attitude can affect the whole family. If you want a peaceful and joyful home, it must start with you. Be peaceful and joyful! PRO-LIFE REFLECTION: We pray that our once great nation may return to respect for life, the law of God and a truth on which this nation was founded: the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness-for the born and pre-born.  STEWARDSHIP: “Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11. The image of the Magi kneeling before the infant Jesus and opening their treasure chests for Him is an image that we should all try to follow. Each of us is called to open our gifts before Jesus, offering Him what He needs. If you have trouble with this idea, keep one of the Magi from your Nativity set on your desk all year as a reminder to bring your gifts to Jesus. LAST WEEK YOU CONTRIBUTED: Sunday: $2,598; Expenses: $2,526.60. Thank you for your generosity! CHRISTMAS SEASON CHARITY: ST. VINCENT DE PAUL FOOD PANTRY – Your donation of all TYPES OF CANNED AND BOXED SOUP will allow the SVDP Society to feed the needy of our area. Volunteer to help our SVDP Society Outreach and God’s Bountiful Table. Call 544-2739. CHRISTMAS SEASON VOTIVES:(1) SANCTUARY: IMO John Socko (16thAnnv) by Daughter, Ann Marie. (Available Dates: January 12, 19, February 2, 9, March 16, 23, April 6, 20, June 1) (2) ALTARS: BVM: For the Health of George Homa and Special Intention by Wife and Family; For the Health of Evan Gober by Grandparents, Stan and Sally; IMO Raymond Yelchak by Andruchek Family. DIVINE MERCY: IMO John Szekeres by Ann Marie; IMO John Skibiel by Brother, Joseph and Rose Marie. (3) OTHER: ST. JOSEPH: Special Intention. REREDOS NICHE: IMO Fr. Joseph F. Reilly by Parents. Call 570-544-2211 to memorialize Votives. ST. PATRICK’S ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SPAGHETTI DINNER: 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Adults $7.50; Children $3.00. Call 570-622-1802. TUESDAY, January 7 – ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, the Good Shepherd Building. Contact our C.R.E., Rosalie Novack (570-544-2211) for more information. WEDNESDAY, January 8 – DEVOTIONS TO ST. PEREGRINE: 8:00 AM Mass. Ask St. Peregrine to help cancer patients / caregivers. GOD’S BOUNTIFUL TABLE: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Fr. Anthony Ricapito Annex. Call 570-544-2739 to volunteer. THURSDAY, January 9 – “SOUNDS OF THE SPIRIT” CONTEMPORARY CHOIR REHEARSAL: Call 570-544-2355 for rehearsal times. 0. The Christmas Season continues with yet another view of God in our history. In his very flesh, Jesus is the revelation of God. This is a season to celebrate a baby, but even more the manifestation, “epiphany,” of God to the whole world. // The gospel warms many hearts with Successful Families According to a study of more than 500 family counselors, the following are the top traits of successful families: * Communicating and listening; * Affirming and supporting family members; * Respecting one another; * Developing a sense of trust; * Sharing time and responsibility; * Knowing right from wrong; * Having rituals and traditions; * Sharing a religious core; * Respecting privacy. December, 1988, Focus on the Family Bulletin

2. FRIDAY, January 10 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 7:45 AM. • SATURDAY, January 11 – SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 3:30 PM. • SUNDAY, January 12 – THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD – ORIENTATION: This Feast proclaims a theophany, a • revelation and manifestation of the divine Sonship of Jesus by his anointing and appointing to his Messianic • office. It is the feast that proclaims the Baptism that elevates believers to the status of sons and daughters • of God. THERITE OF BLESSING AND SPRINKLING WITH HOLY WATER will be celebrated in commemoration of Christ’s Baptism in • the Jordan River by St. John the Baptist at all Masses. Pastoral Note: Today officially ends the Christmas Season. • SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: 6:30 AM and 10:45 AM. • THE FAMILY PRAYER CHALICE FOR VOCATIONS (FPC): M/M FRANK GRIGALONIS will host the FPC this week. • Call 570-399-5056 or Sign-Up in the Church Vestibule. WE NEED VOLUNTEERS FOR FEBRUARY! HELP US! • NATIVITY BVM HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Meet faculty, staff, students, parents, advisors, coaches and • board members; take a tour of our campus; learn about tuition assistance opportunities. Call Jenn (570-622-8110). • SECOND COLLECTION ENVELOPE: (1) FUEL: Your contribution will help defray the cost of heating oil for all parish buildings. • END OF THE YEAR GIVING: 2013 is over. Check your Sunday Church Envelopes for the envelopes you missed due to illness, • vacation, inclement weather, etc. Please catch up as soon as possible. Your Church needs your consistent and generous support to meet • its financial obligations and to serve you. 2013 envelopes returned by January 26, 2014 will be credited for the fiscal year 2013. Thank you! • ***************************************************************************************************************************************************************** • MINISTERS AT MASS FOR THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD • OFF. PROCESSIONLECTORS EUCH. MINISTERSALTAR SERVERS • SAT 4:00 PM Butler Family Frank Melenchick Al Boris Jordan Berdanier • Nathan Tropp • SUN 7:00 AM Parishioners John AndruchekGabriella Quinn • Nicholas Quinn • 9:00 AM Doran Family Sharon Kolenick Lori Hoffman Anthony Lutchkus • Jonathan Kriston • 11:00 AM Kuehn Family Mary Ann Harrison Elaine Davis Carter Melochick • Alex Reppert • ******************************************************************************************************************************************************************* • COMING EVENTS: Please be sure to mark your calendar! • JANUARY 16 – MONTHLY ROSARY: 6:15 PM, our Church. Come and pray the Rosary with us. • JANUARY 18 – NATIVITY BVM TOY BINGO: Doors open 12:00 Noon; Games start 1:00 PM. Nativity BVM High School Cafeteria. $7 for 10 • games. Prizes include toys and gift cards for boys and girls grade K through 8. 50/50; Ticket Raffle; Food and Drinks. Benefits Nativity • Theater Arts Club. Call 570-640-1760 for information. • KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FREE THROW CONTEST – Boys and girls aged 9 to 14; 1 p.m. at Annunciation BVM Gym on Broad • Mountain Avenue in Frackville. Proof of age and completed written parental consent entry forms are required. Local level winners progress • through district and state-level competitions. International champions announced by the K of C International based on state-level contest • scores. Sponsored by K of C Schuylkill Council 431, Pottsville and the K of C Father James A. Hogan Council 2580, Frackville. For more • information contact Grand Knight Tom Kurtek at 570-516-5700. • JANUARY 22 – GOD’S BOUNTIFUL TABLE: 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Fr. Anthony Ricapito Annex. • 2014 NATIONAL MARCH FOR LIFE WASHINGTON, D.C. BUS TRIP: Cost $55. Bus departs from St. Jerome’s at 266 West Broad • Street, Tamaqua at 7:00 AM and returns at 10:30 PM. Sponsored by The Catholic Churches of Tamaqua. Call 570-624-9181 to register. • JANUARY 26 – DIOCESAN COLLECTION: CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES: Our parish will take up this collection Which supports six • Catholic agencies that touch more than 100 million lives around the world. The funds collected help provide food to the hungry, welcome • and support to displaced refugees, and invaluable life skills to those seeking a better life. How will you help? Please give generously and • help Jesus in disguise. Use the Special Envelope found in your boxes. • ASSUMPTION BVM OPEN HOUSE EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION: 12:00 Noon to 2:00 PM at Assumption BVM School. Faculty • members, administration, available to answer questions. New registrations, bring child’s birth certificate, baptismal record, immunization • records. Register before April 1, receive a $15 discount on new student registration fee. Students transferring from other schools in grades • 2 to 7 are eligible for $1,000 grant for the 2014-2015 school year and $500 for the 2015-2016 school year. Call 570-622-0106. • MARCH 3 – ST. MATTHEW’S TRAVELERS’ PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW BUS TRIP: Cost $55. Bus leaves Quandel’s Parking Lot at • 8:00 AM; Departs Philadelphia at 5:00 PM. This year’s Flower Show, “ARTiculture”, will be inspired by the sculptures and style of • Alexander Calder, a member of Philadelphia’s historic family of artists, and will feature a remarkable aerial dance troupe who will perform • above, on and within the multi-dimensional display. For reservations, call Julie (570-544-5231) or the Rectory (570-544-2211). • APRIL 17 – ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST PARISH 50/50 DRAWING: $2.00 each or three for $5.00. Call the Rectory at 570-544- • 2211for tickets. Benefits Parish Center renovation. Thanks for your support! • +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ • PASTORAL NOTE: During the holidays, we were hit with bad weather! I myself am deathly afraid of driving in bad • weather, especially because of the unpredictability of the road conditions. My heartfelt advice to all of you is if • the weather is bad, and you have any qualms about driving in bad weather or any misgivings about the condition • of the roads or sidewalks, please for safety sake, refrain from attending Mass on Saturday afternoon or Sunday • morning. The Good Lord will understand. You will live to attend Church another time! • 2013 CHURCH CONTRIBUTION STATEMENTS: Call the Rectory (570-544-2211) if you need one. • BOX TOPS AND FOOD LABELS FOR EDUCATION: Assumption BVM can earn free educational materials (computers, software, musical • instruments, library books, gym equipment, etc.), by saving product UPC codes, box tops and beverage caps. Check www.labelsfor • education.com for the labels our school needs. There will be a drop box in the rear of the Church. Call 5702-622-0106. • FOOD COUPONS GIFT CARDS TO SUPPORT CATHOLIC SCHOOLS: Both Assumption BVM and Nativity BVM sell gift cards to purchase • groceries in Giant, Weis, BG’s, and Boyer’s, to eat in local restaurants and chain restaurants outside the area, and to shop in major and • small department stores. These participating stores, eateries, grocery stores, and gas stations donate a percentage of their sales back to • the school. Call Assumption BVM (570-622-0106) or Nativity BVM (570-622-8110) for more information. • 2014 CHURCH WEDDINGS AND BAPTISMS: Call the Rectory (544-2211) as soon as possible to begin making preparations. PARISH REGISTRATION: If you do not receive mail from the church, you are not on our church rolls. Contact the Rectory (570-544-2211) so we can correct this! If you are not registered with the Parish, YOU ARE NOT A MEMBER OF ST. MATTHEW THE EVANGELIST PARISH! We will soon be revising our Parish Rolls. Anyone not minimally attending Mass, Christmas and East- er, and supporting the Parish at these times, will be dropped from the active rolls! The parish should nOt be taxed BY THE DIOCESE for non-existent members! MASS SCHEDULE: I can no longer say three Masses on Sunday without physical Consequences. Therefore, the Sunday Mass schedule will be reduced by one Mass. Ballots listing possible Mass times for Saturday and Sunday will be placed in the church vestibule. The time slots receiving the most votes will become our new schedule (THIS IS FAIR!). We will endeavor to begin this process of selection as soon as possible. 2014 CHURCH CALENDARS: Are a gift from the Butler Funeral Home. Our SINCERest thanks to don, peggy and CHRIS !They are in the Church Vestibule. Please take what you need! 2014 ADULT AND CHILDREN CHURCH OFFERING ENVELOPES: All remaining 2014 adult and children envelopes are in the Church Vestibule. Take yours and help us deliver those of our shut-in parishioners. If you discover any irregularities, call (570- 544-2211). We need your consistent financial support to keep our Parish’s heart beating!