St. Kilian Parish Ministry Book

G ifted andC alled

St. Kilian Parish Ministry Book

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28. 19)

The 2nd Vatican Council (1962-1965), a meeting of the world’s bishops in Council with the Pope, was a reform Council returning to the best of the Catholic tradition, and opening up dialogue with other religions and with all people of goodwill. The Church, the Council declared, is the whole People of God. By baptism, all Catholic Christians are clothed with the glory of God, sharing intimately in the ministry of Jesus Christ, the high priest. Through baptism, a call from Christ to service, all believers are commissioned to make disciples of all nations by our words and our actions. By the grace of God, we are a holy people, the body of Christ, and the Temple of the Holy Spirit. “Pastors also know that they themselves were not meant by Christ to shoulder alone the entire mission of the church toward the world. On the contrary, they understand that it is their noble duty to shepherd the faithful and recognize their services and charismatic gifts that all according to their proper role may cooperate in this common undertaking with one heart.” (Vatican II, Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, n.30) This Stewardship Booklet gives powerful evidence of our response to the love of Christ that has been poured out in our hearts. In every aspect of church life at St. Kilian: at parish liturgies, in faith formation to young and old, in outreach to the poor and needy, in prayer and spiritual activities, in festivities and warm hospitality, in administration and maintenance, in charitable organizations and spiritual associations, St. Kilian parishioners make the love of Jesus Christ real. What a striking testimony this is! For over 40 years as a priest it has been my great joy to serve you, God’s holy people. The ordained ministers of this parish echo my sentiments. Together, since 1897 at St. Kilian, we the baptized, lay and ordained, called by the Spirit and empowered by that Spirit, offer a great symphony of praise and thanksgiving in ministry to the gospel!

Peace, Father Bruce

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St. Kilian Parish 485 Conklin Street • Farmingdale, NY 11735

Phone: (516) 249-0127 • Fax: (516) 249-7131 Email: [email protected] • Web Site: www.stkilian.com

Mass Schedule

• Weekday Masses: 7 & 9 a.m.; 7:30 a.m. on Saturdays • Saturday Evening Masses: 5 & 7:30 p.m. • Sunday Masses: 7, 8, 9:30, 11 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. • Spanish Mass: Saturday at 6:15 p.m. • Holy Day Masses: TBA

Church Office

Open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Evenings 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The rectory is closed on holidays. It is advisable to call ahead for an appointment with members of the Pastoral Staff.

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What is a Ministry?

Christian ministry is a call to service; a response to the love of God poured out in Christian hearts through baptism. Baptism is the root sacrament of ministry. Ministry is what we do after baptism; after we say ‘yes’ to Jesus Christ. Another word for ministry is stewardship. Ministry is an action word. Christian ministry, rooted in baptism and confirmation, belongs to every Catholic Christian. Our service is given to others in the name of Jesus Christ, and because of Jesus Christ. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit. A parish ministry is one of our parish-sponsored organizations for men, women and youth. These are publicly recognized ministries directly related to the needs and activities of St. Kilian church. Included are spiritual, social, educational, charitable, liturgical, sacramental and administrative groups. In general there is a three-year renewable commitment requested and ongoing training is available both from the diocese and from the parish. Ministries are also available through our Spanish Community Apostolate and are listed on page 22.

VIRTUS Training

The Diocese of Rockville Centre requires all volunteers to complete necessary paperwork and attend VIRTUS training in order to be compliant with “Diocesan Safe Environment for Our Children”. Paperwork packets are available from ministry heads. A consent form for a background check is included, along with a Code of Conduct Form. VIRTUS training is held periodically at parishes throughout the Diocese. Check www.drvc.org for listings.

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Weekly Bulletin/Website

St. Kilian’s publishes a weekly bulletin with detailed information about parish ministries and activities. Please read through the bulletin which contains many opportunities for you to be involved in our parish. There is also a parish website www.stkilian.org which contains the weekly bulletin as well as other parish information.

Registration

St. Kilian’s welcomes you into full membership in the St. Kilian Community. In order for St. Kilian’s to provide you with the latest information and communications, as well as prepare you for any initiation sacraments, we urge you to register with the parish by completing the St. Kilian Census Form. Registration means that as a Catholic you intend to actively participate in the Mission of our parish. Fundamentally, this mission means that every believer proclaims and establishes, through service of Christ, the kingdom of God among all people. Register as a parishioner when you are ready to take on the responsibility of serving God’s people in public ministry, with joy and gladness. Please call (516) 249-0127 or stop in at the rectory to obtain the census form or to inquire if you are already fully registered.

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Our Parish Mission Statement …

The Catholic family of St. Kilian Parish seeks to be a vibrant, welcoming community of faith, guided by the Holy Spirit, nourished by God’s word and the Eucharist, and committed to witnessing God in and through our neighbors.

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PARISH MINISTRY DIRECTORY

Table of Ministries/Organizations Page Adult Confirmation ...... 16 Adult Faith Formation (English) ...... 16 Altar Servers ...... 10 Baptism Ministers ...... 13 Baptism Preparation (English) ...... 13 Bereavement ...... 24 Bible Study...... 14 Buildings & Grounds ...... 20 Catechist ...... 16 Catholic Ministries Appeal ...... 8 Columbiettes ...... 25 Consolation ...... 10 CYO ...... 23 Environment & Art Committee ...... 10 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion ...... 11 Family Life Ministry ...... 11 Finance Committee ...... 20 Friendly Visitors Committee ...... 18 Fund Raising Committee ...... 20 Greeters ...... 18 Guardian Angel Perinatal Support Group ...... 24 Guardians of the Blessed Sacrament ...... 14 Hospitality ...... 18 Knights of Columbus ...... 25 Lectors ...... 11 Liturgy Committee ...... 12

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Table of Ministries/Organizations Page Men of St. Kilian ...... 18 Monday Prayer Group ...... 14 Music Ministry ...... 12 Nocturnal Adoration ...... 14 Pastoral Council ...... 20 Peace & Justice Committee ...... 8 Post Office Mailing Volunteers ...... 21 Poor Souls in Purgatory ...... 15 Pre-Cana (English) ...... 13 RCIA ...... 17 Respect Life ...... 17 SK Players ...... 19 SK Prayer Group ...... 15 SK Seniors ...... 19 SKY (SK Youth) ...... 23 Social Ministry/Outreach ...... 9 Spirituality Committee ...... 15 St. Vincent de Paul Society ...... 8 Stewardship Committee ...... 17 Ushers ...... 12 Website/ Social Media ...... 21 Welcoming Committee ...... 19 Women’s Guild ...... 19 APOSTOLADO ESPANOL –(Spanish Apostolate) Alcoholicos Anonimos ...... 22 Grupo de Oracion ...... 22 Grupo Juvenil ...... 22 Preparación Bautismo ...... 22 RCIA ...... 22 Our ...... 26 Parish History...... 28

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Charity

Catholic Ministries Appeal The Diocese of Rockville Centre provides a diverse array of support, training and services for its parishes, schools and other agencies. In addition, over 40 ministries serve thousands of Long Islanders each year. All funds raised from our generous parishioners go to support the Appeal and these critical services and ministries. The Appeal drive is held annually and this ministry helps to coordinate mailings, presentations at Masses and follow up calls to parishioners as needed.

Peace & Justice Committee By addressing issues of peacemaking, human rights, justice, racial/ethnic harmony, affordable housing, immigration policy & more, this group seeks to help each member of the parish live the Gospel message. It serves as both an informational and advocacy group under the direction of the Social Ministry director.

St. Vincent de Paul Society The Society is part of an international organization of Catholic Lay men and women who seek in a spirit of justice and charity to help the poor, the needy and the disadvantaged through practical works of charity. Person to person contact is made through home visits. Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. in the Outreach building.

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Charity

Social Ministry/Outreach Social Ministry is our parish response to those in need. Assistance includes food, clothing, heat/utilities, transportation, employment, case management, homebound Eucharist, bereavement cakes, friendly visiting and seasonal/holiday help. For information, assistance or volunteer opportunities please call (516) 756- 9656 Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Social Ministry/Outreach Building

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Liturgical

Altar Servers Beginning with the 4th grade, boys and girls may sign up, usually in the fall, to serve on the Altar for the various liturgical ceremonies of Masses, Weddings and Funerals. Our servers render important service to the parish by enhancing our liturgical events on Sundays and Feast Days throughout the year. After an initial training, they serve two or three times per month, on a rotational basis. Altar servers continue to serve through their High School years as Senior Servers. Special meetings are called as needed, usually a couple of times per year. Watch the bulletin for registration times.

Consolation The Ministry of Consolation is a care giving group of believing parishioners dedicated to the needs of the family and friends when they have suffered the death of a loved one. This ministry is among the first hands to reach out and help others in our faith community at a difficult time. We assist the family planning the funeral liturgy by helping them select the readings, music and prayers. We also offer our presence and guidance to the family by attending the Funeral Mass.

Environment & Art Committee This committee is responsible for the maintenance of the parish worship areas. Duties include the ongoing laundering and upkeep of altar linens and altar server garments, as well as the enhancement of the sanctuary through decoration in accordance with liturgical seasonal norms, usually three times per year.

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Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion By offering the Eucharist, Extraordinary Ministers recognize the Body of Christ in those to whom they serve in giving the Body and Blood of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Their role as a Eucharistic Minister is to assist in the distribution of Holy Communion at Mass. They also help in bringing the Eucharist to the sick in local hospitals and nursing homes and making home visits to those unable to participate in Sunday worship. For further information, call the rectory at (516) 249-0127.

Family Life Ministry The mission of Family Ministry is to help share the Word of God with our young people and their families by fostering the Religious Education program and by encouraging families to regularly practice their Faith – at weekly Mass, Family Rosary, Stations of the Cross and other prayerful events throughout the year. Our vision is to work with families and give them the tools they need to become active participants in their Faith, and to help them spark that Faith within their children. For information call the rectory at (516) 249-0127.

Lectors The Lector, as a proclaimer of the Word, helps facilitate in the public prayer of the church. This ministry comes with both responsibility and privilege. Preparation and practice is key toward fully engaging the members of the assembly. For information call the rectory at (516) 249-0127.

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Liturgy Committee The committee meets monthly to pray, study, and plan the celebration of parish liturgies. Pastoral staff members propose parishioners to the pastor or his designee who interviews and selects candidates for the committee. Members attend diocesan- sponsored training courses to deepen their understanding of liturgical rubrics. They relate to the pastoral staff and other ministries involved in different aspects of liturgical celebration, e.g., lectors, music ministry, ushers, etc. In coordination with the pastoral staff, they implement changes designed to foster Christ’s presence in the Liturgy for all who worship in our parish.

Music Ministry

“He, who sings, prays twice”. Psalm 150 – Praise the Lord with…

The Adult Choir is a diverse group that sings at the 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday. God provides the talent that is supported by our Music Director. We meet Thursdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the lower church.

Ushers The Ushers are primarily responsible for welcoming, guiding, assisting and directing the parishioners during Mass, as well as collecting the Offertory collection. The Ushers meet twice each year, before Easter and then before Christmas. If you would like to become an usher or have any questions, you may speak to any of the Ushers at the Mass and they will assist you. You can also contact the rectory at (516) 249-0127.

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Sacraments

Baptism Ministers These parishioners assist the Priests and Deacons in administering the sacrament of Baptism. They welcome the families as they enter the church; seat them in the appropriate places and answer any questions the family may have. Baptism Ministers assist three to four times a year.

Baptism Preparation (English) These volunteers, along with the Priests and Deacons, assist by sharing their faith and their experience of parish life, with the families bringing children to be baptized. Hearing from their peers, rather than Clergy alone, often makes a lasting impression. Baptism preparation classes are scheduled for the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month immediately following the 9:30 a.m. Mass. Volunteers give St. Kilian an extra hour of their Sunday four to five times a year.

Pre Cana (English) Couples preparing for Marriage in the are required to participate in a Pre-Cana Program. Our Pre-Cana Ministry is composed of married couples who share their life experiences with engaged couples in small groups in their home and at church. We hold two sessions – one during the Spring and one during the Fall. Each session is composed of six meetings. Three meetings are held at home and three at church.

Please call the rectory at (516) 249-0127 for information or to volunteer for any of the sacramental ministries.

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Prayer

Bible Study After reading Bible passages, we discuss what is God saying to us, how is God showing love for us and what does God want for us. How do we respond? The group meets on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the lower church.

Guardians of the Blessed Sacrament Eucharistic Adoration is held in St. Benedict’s Chapel Monday – Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. for those who wish to spend some quiet time with the Lord. During this time we need two people per hour to be Guardians of the Blessed Sacrament. If you are interested in becoming a “Guardian” please contact the Rectory at (516) 249-0127.

Monday Prayer Group The Monday Prayer Group provides an hour of Eucharistic Adoration with Rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet and time for quiet prayer. All are most welcome. The group meets at 8 p.m. on Mondays in St. Benedict Chapel.

Nocturnal Adoration The Nocturnal Adoration Society is an organization of Catholics dedicated to prayer before the Eucharist for one hour each for the praise of God and for the needs of the Church and world. “Won’t you pray one hour with me”! The group meets every First Friday from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. in St. Benedict’s Chapel.

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Poor Souls in Purgatory Our mission is to pray for our loved ones and all Holy Souls in Purgatory who are undergoing their purification from sin before they can share God’s presence in Heaven. The group meets on Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m. in St. Benedict’s Chapel. All are welcome.

SK Prayer Group This is an intercessory group, enjoying some of the Charismatic gifts and who sit before our Lord present in the Tabernacle. All are welcome, the Spirit says come! The group meets every Wednesday from 8 to 9 p.m. in St. Benedict’s Chapel.

Spirituality Committee This committee is responsible for obtaining the services of a parish retreat master annually, promoting deepening spirituality through small Christian community groups; and searching out parish renewals that will assist parishioners in their growth in holiness. This may include spiritual renewals like Cursillo, Marriage Encounter, offerings from Renew International and parish based weekend retreats. The committee will meet six times per year.

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Education

Adult Confirmation Adult Confirmation is a program designed for Catholics, over the age of 18, who need to receive the sacraments of Eucharist and/or Confirmation. Unlike RCIA, enquirers are baptized Catholics who are familiar with the basics of the Catholic faith but did not receive the sacraments of initiation as children or teenagers. Inquirers have class on a bi-weekly basis and the program culminates with the reception of the sacraments on Pentecost. For information contact the Religious Education office at (516) 694-0633 or [email protected]

Adult Faith Formation The group’s goal and purpose is to provide lectures, films and programs to teach and inform all adult members of St. Kilian Parish about their Catholic faith. For information contact the rectory at (516) 249-0127.

Catechist (Religious Education Classes) With the help of many volunteer teacher/ catechists, the program passes on Catholic belief and practice to over 1000 children each year. Through our eight years of weekly classes, children and young people learn to live a Catholic life and are prepared for the Sacraments of Eucharist, Confirmation and Penance. There is a need for many helpers who will enable us to continue to serve our young people. If you would like more information on involvement and service and/or the sharing of your time and talents, please contact the Religious Education Office at (516) 694-0633 or email us at [email protected].

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RCIA The “Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults” (RCIA) is a lengthy (one to three year) process which prepares unbaptized adults to enter the community of the Church and to celebrate the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist). This process needs adults who will journey with those seeking membership in the Church. For more formation, contact the Religious Education Director at (516) 694-0633.

Respect Life This committee is designed to inform, educate and provide information on Church teachings regarding the Gospel of Life. We organize spiritual and legislative Respect Life events including prayer vigils, both in St. Benedicts Chapel and at abortion sites. We participate in the annual March for Life in Washington D.C. and Lobby trips to Albany. We supply information on all aspects pertaining to respect for human life. Updated information can be found in the Parish Bulletin.

Stewardship Committee This committee is a leadership group that is devoted to discovering and communicating insights into Christian discipleship and stewardship as a way of life. Members, who meet eight times per year under the direction of the Pastor, plan and assist in the implementation of the parish and diocesan vision for Time, Talent and Treasure.

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Social

Friendly Visitors Committee This is a ministry under the direction of Social Ministry/Outreach. Volunteers visit homebound seniors in our community for about an hour per week. Visitors will sit, talk, play cards or a board game, read etc. with the seniors who are homebound. To volunteer for this ministry, or if you know of a homebound senior who could benefit from a visit, please contact the Social Ministry Director at (516) 756-9656.

Greeters The first person one is likely to meet when coming to Mass is one of the men and women who serve as our parish greeters. Their presence, conversation and demeanor speak of a genuine desire that all who come to St. Kilian are welcome. Please contact the rectory at (516) 249-0127 if you are interested in becoming a greeter.

Hospitality This ministry promotes hospitality by organizing and implementing after Mass social gatherings through fellowship, baked goods and beverages. Parishioners and newcomers can meet and greet one another following specific parish Masses throughout the year, usually once per month. The Hospitality Committee also responds to the needs of the parish for special occasions as the need arises. It is also responsible for keeping the kitchen stocked for various parish groups and is under the direction of the Business Manager.

Men of St. Kilian Most men who have attended a men’s fellowship group, quickly discover the benefits they offer. Men participating in such groups cultivate friendships among their fellow parishioners, have fun and learn from one another For information on the Men’s Group, please call the rectory at (516) 249-0127.

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SK Players The St. Kilian Players share our time and talents by presenting a theatrical production each summer. Notices appear in the bulletin and on our website at www.skplayers. com announcing the show and requesting help in the various areas of production both on stage and backstage. Contact information can be found in the bulletin or a message can be left at the rectory at (516) 249-0127 or on our website.

SK Seniors This group of Seniors enjoys spiritual times as well as fun times. We generally meet every Monday or Tuesday at 11 a.m. in the lower church For information please call the rectory at (516) 249-0127.

Welcoming Committee This committee seeks to provide a warm welcome to newly registered parishioners. Phone calls are made to welcome new groups of parishioners on a bi-monthly basis. New parishioners will be invited for hospitality after one of the Masses TBD. Those who are part of this committee will provide information about the church and its ministries. Meeting dates TBD. Please contact the rectory at (516) 249-0127 if you are interested in joining the Welcoming Committee.

Women’s Guild The purpose of the St. Kilian Women’s Guild is to welcome all women of faith, vision and gentleness who are centered in God and to provide friendship, spiritual and social opportunities as well as to serve the parish of St. Kilian. Meetings are usually held on the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Blue Room of the lower church. Meeting reminders and special event notices are published in the bulletin.

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Administration

Buildings & Grounds This is a ministry that seeks to capitalize on the special gifts of carpenters, electricians, plumbers, etc., both amateurs and professionals, who would be available to donate their time and talents to special maintenance needs and projects around the parish campus. This committee will meet monthly for one hour and is under the direction of the Business Manager.

Finance Committee This committee is selected by the Pastor to advise him in the financial matters of the parish. They offer assistance in presenting the annual reports; and assist the Pastor in managing the finances of the parish. The names of the Finance Committee members are listed in the weekly bulletin.

Fund Raising Committee During the course of the year, the parish organizes special events, e.g. a dinner dance, raffles and other charity events. These events combine both social and fund-raising components. Through this ministry, parishioners assist in the planning and implementation of the event, which is under the direction of an Associate Pastor. This committee will meet six times per year.

Pastoral Council The Pastoral Council is an advisory board to assist the pastor in the spiritual and temporal matters of the parish. Members are chosen for three year terms which may be renewed. The Council meets once a month, except in the summer. Parishioners are invited to express their concerns and questions to the council members who are listed in the weekly Bulletin.

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Post Office Mailing Volunteers The Post Office Mailing Volunteers are a group of parishioners who prepare mailings to the parish families, allowing them to receive information in a timely fashion. The assembly of the mailings is done during the day Monday – Friday. General mailings to our parishioners occur a few times a year on an “as-needed” basis. Please contact the rectory at (516) 249-0127 if you are interested in helping out with the parish mailings.

Website/ Social Media This committee promotes the development of parish community, and awareness of parish activities and offerings in liturgy, faith formation, spirituality and outreach to the poor. Using our parish website, parish bulletin, Facebook, twitter and more, this committee promotes the gospel through mass media/public relations under the direction of an Associate Pastor and meets four times per year or as needed.

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Apostolado Espanol (Spanish Apostolate)

Misa en Espanol: Sabado 6:15 p.m.

Alcoholicos Anonimos (AA): Todos Los Viernes 7:30 p.m. Sotano de la Iglesia.

Bautismo se celebra cada cuarto domingo de cada mes en la Iglesia a las 2:00 pm.

Grupo de Oracion: Todos Los Miercoles 7:30-9:30 p.m. cafeteria de la Escuela.

Grupo Juvenil: Todos Los Sabados 7:30 p.m. cafeteria de la Escuela

Preparación Bautismo se celebra cada tercer miércoles del mes 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. en el sótano de la iglesia

RCIA se lleva a cabo de septiembre a mayo , todos los sábados 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. en el sótano de la iglesia.

Nota: Informacion para contraer matrimonio, bautizos y confesiones llame a la Rectoria para una cita con el sacerdote A1 (516) 249-0127.

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Youth

CYO The Catholic Youth Organization provides various intramural and inter- parish athletic activities including boys and girl’s basketball from grades 3 to 12, girls volleyball from grades 4 to 12, boys and girls swimming from grades 2 to 12, baseball from grades 5 to 12, and girls softball from grades 5 to 12. While youngsters hone their athletic skills, they also learn a sense of value and fair play. Registrations are announced in the weekly bulletin. Call (516) 249-0127 for information.

St. Kilian Youth Ministry (SKY) “The Young Church of Today” SKY is the place where teens live the Faith+. We meet at the School Building Cafeteria (basement) on Sunday evenings starting at 6:00 p.m. for both Middle School and High School students. We then share in a meal of Thanksgiving Pizza. High School SKY continues in the rectory youth room (rear of building – Franklin St. side) from 8:15 to 9:00 p.m. SKY event schedule can be found in the weekly church bulletin. SKY Youth Choir practices on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., in the Music Room in the lower level of the Church (enter on the Cherry Street side near the statue in the circle of the parking lot.) Youth Mass is the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 9:30 a.m., with rehearsals beginning at 8:00 a.m. in the Music Room. All youth are encouraged to sing and sit with SKY next to the pipe organ at 9:30 Mass. For information email: [email protected] or call (516) 249-0127. Join our email list & Sky Face Book Page.

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Support

Bereavement Six week spring and fall sessions are available to groups such as spouses, relatives, friends and children. All facilitators are trained and accredited and have experienced the pain and suffering of the particular group. An annual “Help for the Holidays” service is held in November. Call the rectory (516) 249-0127, for more information. Meetings are held in the lower church. Individual counseling is also available.

Guardian Angel Perinatal Support Group This group offers bereavement support for parents whose babies have died during pregnancy or in infancy – miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth or infant death (including SIDS). Our group offers understanding, friendship and bereavement support in an effort to assure that parents are not alone in their grief when their baby has died. Our group is a registered Share Group of the National Share Office in Missouri. Website: www.nationalshare.org. For more information, contact us on our Website: www.stkilian.com/gaps. Meetings are held on the 1st Friday of the month from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the lower church. The group holds an “Annual Remembrance Evening” in October, which is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness month.

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Organizations

Knights of Columbus The St. Kilian Council of the Knights of Columbus is a social and fraternal group that supports the Catholic Church and the Clergy. We conduct social, educational and religious activities to serve the Church, the community, our members and their families. Male practicing Catholics 18 years of age or over are welcome, and invited, to join. Call us at (631) 755-2204 for further information. Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month, at 8 p.m., in the Council home at 1 Morton St., Farmingdale (behind the 7-11 on Fulton St. near Rt. 110).

Columbiettes This organization of women works side by side with the Knights of Columbus (see above) in service to the Church, community, Council, family and youth.

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Patron Saint – St. Kilian

In the early 7th century (ca. 620-640 A.D.), Saint Kilian (the name means “hammer”), was born in the parish of Mullagh in the Diocese of Kilmore, , . Though little is known about Kilian’s early years, it is believed that he was a descendant of a Scottish family that settled in Ireland. In the second half of the 7th century, Kilian left Ireland with 11 companions to secure Papal authority for missionary work in Frankonia, what is today, . However only two – Kolonat, a priest, and Totnan, a deacon – accompanied Bishop Kilian to the area around Wurzburg.

The preaching of these missionaries was blessed by God and many of the people were converted to the faith. Around Easter, in the year 688, Kilian baptized then – reigning Duke Gosbert. The Duke, however, was married to his brother’s widow Gailana, which, at the time, was against the valid Frankish law and the law of the Church. The Duke planned to arrange for his separation when he returned from a Crusade to which he was called. When Duchess Gailana heard about the Duke’s intentions she became angry and full of hatred towards Kilian and his companions. She hired two men to murder them, and arranged for a secret burial in the Duke’s stables. In 689, Gosbert returned from the Crusades and sought information about Kilian, Totnan, and Kolonat. One of the murderers confessed his crime, implicated the other, and then took his own life.

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When St. Boniface, the “Apostle” of Germany, established the See of Wurzburg in 742, he organized a search to find the graves of the three murdered men. On July 8, 752, the remains were found in a shallow settlement on the right side of the river in a shallow grave on the site of the present Neumunster. Above the original sepulcher of St. Kilian and his companions, the first Cathedral was consecrated in 788 by Bishop Beowulf in the presence of Charlemagne, and the relics of St. Kilian were returned to a place of honor. Through centuries of wars, storms and plagues, devotion to St. Kilian and his companions has remained strong.

The feast day of St. Kilian is July 8

Grill Masters at St. Kilian Feast Day Barbecue July 8, 2009

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St. Kilian Parish: A Brief History

The founding of St. Kilian Parish by the Order of St. Benedict dates back to October 1896. Prior to the Benedictines’ arrival, the Catholics of Farmingdale gathered for Mass at the Convent of the Holy Rosary in North Amityville or were sometimes forced to travel in fair or foul weather over bad roads to Hicksville or Lindenhurst to worship. In a letter addressed to Benedictines dated September 27, 1896, Bishop Charles E. McDonnell, Bishop of Brooklyn, said in part:

“I am pleased to know that you accept the mission of Farmingdale. It will be a blessing for the faithful in that district to have a resident priest and church, and I hope many may be brought back or into the church.”

According to an early newspaper article on the founding of the Parish, Father Gerard Spielman, O.S.B. with a “band of his confreres settled in Farmingdale” and “the good Fathers were fortunate enough to secure a beautiful mansion (really a farmhouse) with four acres in the very heart of the village”.

For the first two years (1896 to 1898), Mass was said in a Lutheran Church on Washington Street, which was rented by Father Gerard temporarily. At that time there were only about ten Catholic families in the Parish, which encompassed Farmingdale, Bethpage (formerly known as Central Park), Plainedge, North Massapequa, Wyandanch, Pinelawn, Deer Park, Half Hollow, Old Bethpage and Plainview. On July 4, 1898, in the “presence of a large concourse of people,” Bishop McDonnell dedicated the original church building.

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In the years that followed, the Parish grew slowly, so that by the early 1920s more than 300 families worshipped at St. Kilian, and the operation of a Parish school became feasible.

In 1926, the first St. Kilian school building was dedicated by Bishop Thomas Molloy of Brooklyn. Staffed by the Dominican Sisters, the school served thousands of children even after the opening of the Cherry Street School in 1963. In September 1992, the school became the Farmingdale campus of the Regional School St. John De LaSalle. Sadly the school was closed by the Diocese in 2012 due to lack of enrollment.

Following World War II, the immense population growth on Long Island was reflected in the tenfold growth of Parishioners. This sudden change put a great strain on the existing parish facilities. Crowding was so severe that Masses had to be celebrated in the church crypt and both school buildings were in full operation. In addition to the new school on Cherry Street, a Convent was opened in 1968 to house the Dominican Sisters who taught in the school. In order to make more efficient use of Parish facilities, this building was converted to the Rectory in 1987. St. Benedict’s Chapel, the former convent chapel, was opened to the parish, and is currently used for early weekday Mass on certain holidays and in event of snow, as well as for some devotions.

In 1974, after almost 80 years of service, the priests of the Order of St. Benedict left St. Kilian and responsibility for the Parish was assumed by the Diocese of Rockville Centre. In 1996, the Parish celebrated its centennial of service to God and the people of Farmingdale.

Subsequently a Centenary Campaign for the Restoration & Expansion of our Historic Church was led by Msgr. Charles Swiger in an effort to better serve the needs of the parish. On July 4, 1998 the dedication of The Church of St. Kilian was held. The church as it stands today was dedicated by Most Reverend John R. McGann.

29 St. Kilian Parish Ministry Book

We wish to thank the following parishioners for their time and talent in helping produce this Ministry Book.

Geoff Fenwick who prepared and edited this booklet contents for printing.

Bernie Geary for the cover photo and the photography within this booklet.

30 St. Kilian Parish Ministry Book

Notes

31 St. Kilian Parish Ministry Book

Notes

32 In Tribute to all those living and deceased, who have served with dedication in the St. Kilian Parish Family

Arthur F. White Funeral Home “Tradition of caring Since 1923”

2 Locations 234 Broadway 315 Conklin St. Bethpage, NY 11714 Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-931-1454 516-249-0336 Email: [email protected]

We would like to recognize the St. Kilian’s Ministries for all the good works they do for the Farmingdale Community. 385 Main Street • Farmingdale, NY 11735 516-249-1303 [email protected] Serving the Farmingdale Community and Beyond Since 1927

We want to acknowledge St. Kilian’s Ministries for all their services and blessings they share with God’s people.