St. Patrick R.C. Church 280 East Main Street, Smithtown, New York 11787 “Christ with us. Christ before us. Christ behind us.” April 11, 2021 - Divine Mercy Sunday

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A Very Holy Week - This year, Holy Week seemed all the more holy in that we were once again able to gather and celebrate. At this time last year, churches were closed due to the coronavirus. Pictured above are: (1) Palm Sunday, (2) Holy Thursday, (3) Good Friday, (4) a baptism at the Easter Vigil, and (5) one of three Easter Masses held outside under a tent. St. Patrick Church 280 East Main Street, Smithtown, NY 11787 631-265-2271, [email protected] www.stpatricksmithtown.org Mass Times Reconciliation Weekdays: 6:45 A.M., 9:00 A.M., 12:10 PM Saturday: from 3:45 to 4:45 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM, 5 and 8 PM Sunday: from 8:15 to 8:45 AM Novena Mass (Miraculous Medal): Monday, 7:30 PM Monday: 6:45 to 7:15 P.M. before the Novena Mass Sunday: 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 5 PM Anytime by appointment in the Rectory Marriage Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Couples should make arrangements at the Rectory Thursdays for one hour following 12:10 PM Mass at least six months before the desired wedding date. First Fridays after 12:10 Mass until 2:30 PM Benediction* Baptisms Nocturnal Adoration, third Saturday of the month Currently by appointment. For information, go to from 9 PM to 7 AM Sunday** www.stpatricksmithtown.org > Sacraments > Baptism **Time may be shortened to 1 hour due to Covid-19. Pro-Life Holy Hour, third Tuesday of the month, 7:30 PM **Watch bulletin for possible changes in concluding time From the Pastor’s Desk

At times we wonder if we can do what we have raised them beyond doubt and its accompanying fears committed ourselves to do, and at other times we and excuses to bring God Himself into our world. We jump in with enthusiasm, courage, and joy. We don’t so much doubt like St. Thomas, nor do we never know exactly what the future holds for us. One always have the solid faith of Joseph and Mary. Yet, of the questions I pondered before I took the final God has no doubts about who we are and all we are step to ordination as a priest was, “Will I be able to truly capable of in the best sense possible. The more do what a priest does?” As time goes by, I have we can see Jesus walking with us on our journey of learned many things and I thoroughly enjoy being a life, the more security, peace, and joy we have. Jesus priest. believes in each one of us and knows the joy we can Back in the 1950s before the LIE was built, we bring into the world when we join with Him and one would go to visit my mother’s family in Pennsylvania. another as people of faith, hope, and love. That is Route 25 took us right through Smithtown on the what the Resurrected Jesus is all about. That is what way to the Parkway. Never did it enter my mind that we are all about. one day I would be a priest and serve here. If you had asked me if I would write a message every day I offer these verses from Psalm 18 for your for more than a year to the people of my parish, I prayerful reflection: would have cringed in doubt. But looking at what I think should be done became a reality I have I love you, Lord, my strength, embraced through prayer, reading, and the joy of my rock, my fortress, my savior. priesthood. Whether it is our profession, My God is the rock where I take refuge; relationships, or religion, total commitment is not my shield, my mighty help, my stronghold. work, but an opportunity to become fully alive. The Lord is worthy of all praise, Today’s Gospel (John 20:19-31) relates two when I call I am saved from my foes. Resurrection appearances of Jesus to His apostles. Jesus appears to them where they are physically, He rewarded me because I was just, mentally, and spiritually - filled with fear and behind repaid me, for my hands were clean, locked doors. His appearance restores their faith, for I have kept the way of the Lord, hope, and love for Him. Jesus did not doubt that they and have not fallen away from my God. would follow Him and continue what He began. In the first appearance, Thomas was not present and For his judgments are all before me: he refused to believe that Jesus had appeared to I have never neglected his commands. them: “Unless I see the mark of the nails in His I have always been upright before him; hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put I have kept myself from guilt. my hand into His side, I will not believe.” As much as these are words of human doubt on the part of He repaid me because I was just Thomas, the response is love and hope on the part and my hands were clean in his eyes. of Jesus. Jesus invites Thomas to put his fingers into You are loving with those who love you: the wounds and believe. This passage does not say you show yourself perfect with the perfect. whether Thomas actually touched the marks on Jesus’ body. It simply tells us that Thomas believed With the sincere you show yourself sincere, as he responded: “My Lord and my God.” but the cunning you outdo in cunning. Jesus refusal to dismiss Thomas with his doubts For you save a humble people raised Thomas to be one of the foundation stones of but humble the eyes that are proud. our Church. Jesus has no doubts about what we are capable of when we follow and trust Him with all our You, O Lord, are my lamp, heart, soul, mind, and strength. The Blessed Virgin my God who lightens my darkness. Mary trusted God and conceived through the power With you I can break through any barrier, of the Holy Spirit. St. Joseph did not doubt the words with my God I can scale any wall. of an angel in his dream when he was told Mary conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit. Both Mary Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the and Joseph had no doubts when it was time for Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and shall Jesus to be born and lovingly brought Him from be for ever. Amen. Mary’s womb in a stable. Mary’s faith was truly challenged when she walked with Jesus on the road to Calvary. She did not doubt God’s way would prevail. Like Mary and Joseph, we do not have all he answers ahead of time. Their complete trust in God Masses for the Week Saturday, April 10th: 5:00 PM Kathleen Ramistella 8:00 PM Betty Lavallee Our Pastoral Team Sunday, April 11th: Rev. Msgr. Ellsworth R. Walden, Pastor Rev. Thomas Acheampong, Associate Pastor 7:30 AM Anna Ramos Rev. Abraham Thannickal, Associate Pastor 9:00 AM Ninh Nguyen Rev. Fred Hill, In Residence 10:30 AM Michael & Regina Grieco Deacon Jerry Reda 12:00 PM Deceased Members of the Deacon Mahew Faughnan Recco Family Mr. Joseph Menge, Business Manager 5:00 PM Michael Kissane Mrs. Barbara Pellerito, School Principal Monday, April 12th: Mrs. Elaina Kedjierski, Dir. of Religious Ed., Levels 1-4 Mrs. Peggy Soviero, Dir. of Religious Ed., Levels 5-8 6:45 AM Diane Osman Romano Ms. Dianne Williams, Parish Social Minister 9:00 AM June Fleck Ms. Cindy Marsh, Youth Administrator 12:10 PM Olga Correa 7:30 PM Joaquin Lopez Mr. Josh Moore, Youth Minister Tuesday, April 13th: Contact Us 6:45 AM Brian O’Connor Rectory - 265-2271 9:00 AM Regina Huria Rectory Fax - 863-1586 12:10 PM Vincent Buchanan Parish Website: stpatricksmithtown.org Outreach - 265-2668 Wednesday, April 14th: Religious Formaon - 724-7454 6:45 AM Edward J. Coyne St. Patrick School - 724-0285 9:00 AM Orsola Pasquarelli School Website - spssmith.org 12:10 PM Leona McCoy Youth Community - 360-0185 Thursday, April 15th: Fr. Walden’s Email - [email protected] Parish Email - [email protected] 6:45 AM Regulo Quintokiano Office Hours: Rectory 9 AM to 7 PM, Mon. - Fri. 9:00 AM Ann Bates 9 AM to 5 PM Sat., 10 AM to 1 PM Sun. 12:10 PM Anthony & Josephine Corbo Parish Outreach:9:15 AM to 3:00 PM, Mon.—Fri. Friday, April 16th: Youth Community: 9 AM to 3 PM, Mon. - Fri. Religious Formaon: 9 AM to 3:30 PM, Mon. - Thurs. 6:45 AM James Lynch St. Patrick’s Pastoral Council Email: 9:00 AM Rose DeSalvo 12:10 PM William Eyring [email protected] Saturday, April 17th: Parish Organizaons* 9:00 AM *Multiple Intentions Bereavement Support: Call Outreach at 265-2668 5:00 PM Marie Lamicella Catholic Daughters: 1st Tues., 7 PM 8:00 PM People of the Parish Choir: Thurs. evening, 8 PM Columbiees: 2nd Sat. 10:30 AM Sunday, April 18th: Jusce & Peace: Once a month, 7:00 PM Outreach Ctr. 7:30 AM Joseph Pette Knights of Columbus: 2nd & 4th Tues., 8 PM 9:00 AM Anthony Nuzzi Jr. Legion of Mary: Tues. mornings at 9:30 AM 10:30 AM Joseph Arico Nocturnal Adoraon Society: 3rd Sat. from 9 PM-7AM 12:00 PM James Casey Jr. Pro Life Family: Last Thursday, 10:30 AM , Parish Center 5:00 PM Mary Margret Behrens R.C.I.A. (Rite of Chrisan Iniaon for Adults); 265-2271 Something for Seniors; 2nd & 4th Wed., 1 PM, 265-0034 * Tommy Donato, Irene Urso, Patricia Ann Flynn, Anne Mackle, Joseph Dunn *Many organizaons are not meeng at this me or must limit the number of people. Please call if interested, 631-265-2271.

Treasure Happy Anniversary! Communal Offering for March 21st: $25,760.45. At the 12 noon Mass on Sunday, April Offering Corresponding Sunday 2020: $17,545.00. 11th, all couples who are celebrating Communal Offering for Palm Sunday: $26,159.34. their anniversary during the month of Offering Palm Sunday 2020: $18,543.00. April are invited to come forward and Communal Offering for Easter Sunday: $92,493.50. receive a special blessing for married Offering Easter Sunday 2020: $87,861.00. couples. We encourage all to participate in this special Thank you for your generosity. tribute. St. Patrick Parish Religious Formation Social Ministry

Easter Appreciation REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN Thank you so much for the love, generosity and FOR 2021-2022 compassion you show for others through your support of Parish Outreach. It is a tribute to you that we were able to Deadline for registration is June 30th. You can register provide 75 families with complete Easter dinners, and pay online! including candy baskets for over 100 children. A holiday meal represents so much more to the family that receives Returning Families: If you would like to REGISTER it; it lets them know that they have our support, they are ONLINE, just go to: not alone, and that we care, especially during this time of crisis. https://stpatsrfc.wordpress.com

God Bless you for your compassion for others! New Families: If you would like to register/pay online go to the website above. In order to complete your registration, we ask you to mail both New Student Registration Form (one for each child) and Baptismal First Holy Communions Certificate to: St. Patrick’s Religious Formation Office Spring is a season of sacraments! Our First Holy 284 East Main Street Communions are about to begin. Below is a list of Smithtown, NY 11787 Masses during which First Holy Communions will take place: For the most up-to-date information on religious formation classes, please check the religious Sunday, April 25th 10:30 AM formation website: 12:00 PM https://stpatsrfc.wordpress.com Saturday, May 1st 5:00 PM Sunday, May 2nd 10:30 AM Saturday, May 8th 5:00 PM St. Patrick’s is in need of a part- Saturday May 15th 5:00 PM time custodian to work late Sunday, May 16th 10:30 AM afternoon and evening hours. Light 12:00 PM janitorial duties. Must be reliable and Saturday, May 22nd 5:00 PM conscientious. Please call 631-360- Sunday, May 23rd 10:30 AM 2980 if interested. 12:00 PM Saturday, May 29th 5:00 PM Sunday, May 30th 10:30 AM Pro-Life Rose 12:00 PM Saturday, June 5th 5:00 PM St. Patrick’s Pro-Life Family invites Sunday, June 6th 10:30 AM you to dedicate a Pro-Life Rose for any intention by contacting Lisa by email at [email protected] or call 656-6343. The Altar Bread and Wine were donated for the week Your participation helps bring a greater awareness in loving memory of of the sacredness of all human life, especially the Mark Hanlon. unborn. The cost is $10.

Bread & Wine Memorial The Pro-Life Rose To arrange a memorial for Al- was dedicated this week tar Bread and Wine, please in thanksgiving to call Diane Sperzel at 265- Our Lady of Fatima 3307. Donation for the week is and St. Joseph. $50. Cards will be sent to the family. Divine Mercy Celebration This Sunday, April 11th from 2:30 to 4:00 PM in our church Join us as we celebrate the merciful love of God and pray that His mercy will flow through our hearts toward those in need of it. Our celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday will include a Holy Hour and Confessions. All are invited.

Apart from the mercy of God there is no other source of hope for mankind. - St. Pope John Paul II

Prayers of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy

Opening Prayers (Optional): You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us.

O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fountain of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (Repeat 3 times)

Our Father, Hail Mary and the Apostle's Creed

For each of the five decades

(On each “Our Father” bead of the rosary, pray) Eternal Father, I offer you the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your Dearly Beloved Son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.

(On each of the 10 “Hail Mary” beads, pray) For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Concluding Prayer Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world. (Repeat 3 times)

Closing Prayer (Optional): Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

Be Sure to Support Our Bulletin Advertisers And if your business could use a boost place an ad in our bulletin! Our church bulletin is not only available in church, it is also emailed to our parishioners each week. If you would like to reach Smithtown area residents regarding your business, the St. Patrick’s bulletin is a great place to advertise. To learn more or to place an ad, contact Bill Murphy at 631-697-7974. You can also build your own ad by going to: https://www.jspadbuilder.com Thank You!

Thank you to all who helped to bring some Easter joy to those struggling financially in our area. Pictured are: (1) We Are Smithtown members and (2) a St. Catherine Medical Center representative with generous Easter Basket donations, (3-5) Easter dinners packed up and ready to go thanks to our Parish Outreach volunteers, and (6) an Outreach volunteers making Easter dinner deliveries.

Want to Learn More About St. Patrick School? Take a Virtual Tour There’s a lot to explore when it comes to our school and normally all would be invited to see what our school has to offer at our annual Open House. This year, however, our school is offering a Virtual Tour, as well as scheduled tours of the school in order to keep everyone safe from the coronavirus.

The Virtual Tour includes information on various grade levels, academic intervention services, and a myriad of clubs, activities and sports offerings, as well as student testimonials, alumni testimonials,

Whether you are a parent looking into providing a Catholic education for your child/children, an alum checking in on your alma mater, or just someone interested in our school, we invite you to take an online tour.

You can access the Virtual Tour at the St. Patrick School website: www.spssmith.org St. Patrick School Academic excellence inspired by faith. If you are in high school, please join us for Life Teen 2020-21! Below is a list of our meeting dates: April 11th May 23rd April 18th June 6th April 25th* June 13th May 2nd May 16th Wear a facemask. *Wear Sneakers

All meetings are from 6:00 to 8:00 PM following the 5:00 PM Mass. Please meet in the Parish Center parking lot. When the weather is inclement, meetings will move to the gym. For information, email [email protected]

Sign up now for summer fun at Camp St. Patrick

Spring is underway! Time to plan for summer. St. Patrick’s offers a state-certified summer day camp for children and young people ages 3 to 15. Plans are already underway for the summer of 2021. Kiddie Camp, for children ages 3 to 5, offers full-day and half-day options. Kiddie campers enjoy circle time, game time, outdoor and indoor play, art, music, snack and other fun-filled activities. Main and Teen Camp, for ages 6 to 15, includes indoor and outdoor sports, art, music, language, game room, science clinic, Zumba, tie-die day and more. Parents can customize their child’s camp schedule for certain days or for a full week. Before and after care is available for an additional fee. Camp St. Patrick will continue to follow all social distancing rules per our state and local entities. For more information, call 631-360-0785 or visit www.stpatsyouth.com

St. Patrick’s Learning Center is requesting donations of Barbie items: Barbie Houses, Furniture and Cars - new or used if in good condition. Please call 631-780-6313 if you can donate. Thank you to all who participated in our 40 Days for Life Parish Lenten Project. Your prayers and your witness in front of Planned Parenthood make a difference. All are invited to continue to pray peacefully all year at the vigil site, as your schedule permits. It is recommend that volunteers pray with at least one other person. You can always come out when the regulars are there: • Mondays from (at least) 10:00-10:45 AM • Wednesdays from (at least) 8:30-10:30 AM • Saturdays from (at least) 8:30-10:30 AM If you prefer to pray at a different time and need a partner, please email [email protected] with the days and times you are available and 40 Days staff will try to connect you with another volunteer to accompany you.

One of the great advantages of the Internet is having access to so many resources. This includes spiritual resources. St. Patrick’s pays an annual fee so that all our parishioners can sign up for FREE to FORMED. FORMED is an online platform that offers 24/7 access to the best Catholic content on almost any device, including your computer, smartphone and tablet. You will have instant access to thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, studies and more. FORMED also includes excellent content for children. To sign up for FORMED, go to: https://stpatricksmithtown.formed.org

SUGGESTION FOR THE WEEK ON FORMED One in four people will be affected by a mental health problem at some point in their lives, yet the stigma surrounding mental illness silences many and prevents faith communities from responding compassionately and effectively. This eight-session course—designed for use in small groups—explores the realities of mental health and illness, as well as the vital need for faith-based community conversations about these topics. The sessions are accompanied by compelling films that feature the stories of Catholics living with mental health challenges, along with the insights of archbishops, theologians, and psychologists. The course also includes a Leader’s Guide, Participant’s Guide, and additional educational and spiritual resources.

- Eight sessions (available as a coursebook or audiobook) - Eight films - Interactive discussion questions and group exercises - Prayers and reflections - Comprehensive leader and participant guides

Learn more about this course and Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries at www.sanctuarymentalhealth.org/catholics/

Warning: This course and films address difficult and sensitive topics, and may not be appropriate for a young audience. Parental guidance is advised. These films capture the experiences of individuals in their own words; the views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not always represent the views of Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries, FORMED, or the Augustine Institute. 1 2

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Holy Week at St. Patrick’s

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Pictured on pages 1-12: (1) Altar decorations in preparation for the Holy Triduum, (2-4) Palm Sunday, (5-6) Holy Thursday, (7-10) Good Friday, (11) RCIA catechumens and candidates recite the Nicene Creed at Morning Prayer on Holy Saturday, (13) RCIA catechumens and candidates receiving sacraments at the Easter Vigil, (24-28) Easter Sunday Tent Masses.

Next week the Nocturnal Adoration Society will meet for one hour of prayer immediately after the 8:00 PM Saturday Mass. Parishioners are encouraged to stay and pray privately or with the Nocturnal Adoration group. Nocturnal Adoration offers an opportunity to respond to the plea of Jesus on the night before He died: “Could you not spend one hour with me?” It is a unique opportunity to be in the presence of Jesus at a time when there are no distractions; to meditate on His passion, death and resurrection; to pray with Him to our Father; and to receive the strength of the Holy Spirit to continue His mission of love and compassion. Members pray for the intentions of society members worldwide, for world peace, for pro-life issues, vocations, victims of war and natural disasters, and our departed brothers and sisters. Our Nocturnal Adoration Society hopes to soon return to its monthly all night vigil. St. Patrick’s Legion of Mary invites you to the 12th Annual Women’s Retreat “Behold Thy Son” Friday, May 7th to Saturday, May 8th at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington Check in Friday between 1 & 6:00 PM - Ends Saturday at 9:00 PM Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Reflections, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Sacrament of Confession, Silence throughout Retreat (optional at meals) Cost of $125 includes dinner on Friday, three meals on Saturday and private room with shower. Masks must be worn in public settings. Please send form below with check made payable to St. Patrick Parish to: St. Patrick R.C. Church, 280 East Main Street, Smithtown, NY 11787, Attn. Legion of Mary ------Behold Thy Son Retreat Name______Email ______Address ______Phone ______Parish ______Special Dietary Needs? ______Approx. Arrival Time ______For additional information, contact Lana Maggio at 631-374-1116 or Corinne Addiss 631-804-7222 or [email protected]

Pray for Our Nation Please join us on Thursday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30 PM in the church for a Holy Hour and Prayers for our Nation.

Prayers for our Nation will not be held on April 29th, May 13th, and June 10th due to other events being held in the church.

Members of our Legion of Mary and St. Anne’s Prayer Group lead us in prayer as we entrust our country to Divine Providence through Our Lady’s Intercession.

XLT Holy Hours XLT (for exalt) Holy Hours are a time to grow closer to Christ through song, word, and adoration. Take some time to step away from the world and into a face-to- face encounter with Jesus. XLT Holy Hours are sched- uled for the following Friday nights from 7:00 to 8:00 PM in the church: April 16th - May 7th - June 4th

The holy hour in our modern rat race is necessary for authentic prayer. Our world is one of speed in which intensity of movement is a substitute for lack of purpose; where noise is invoked to drown out the whisperings of conscience; where talk, talk, talk gives the impression that we are doing something when really we are not; where activity kills self-knowledge won by contemplation. - Archbishop Fulton Sheen Giving Made Easier Churches now routinely offer Focus on online giving for church donations. There are many Religious Freedom reasons for this. Fewer people From Catholics For are using cash and checks. Freedom of Religion Mass attendance at your home www.cffor.org parish is usually interrupted by vacations, business trips, illness, snow storms, and now coronavirus concerns. And many people find it easier (and greener) to not have Canceling Christianity to deal with church envelopes. Continues in America St. Patrick’s offers several forms of online giving: "Cancel culture is the modern social attitude that (1) Faith Direct: Signing up for Faith Direct allows controversial speech or behavior must be punished through you to indicate a weekly contribution amount that is public shaming, silencing, boycotting, firing, bankrupting, automatically withdrawn from your account. Just go to de-platforming, etc. The result is that the so-called offender's influence, presence, and/or reputation is faithdirect.net or download the Faith Direct app from the (1) App Store. Our Parish code is NY51. 'canceled out.'" In America today, Christian figures and symbols have (2) Our website: You can contribute at any time by increasingly become the subject of debate and vandalism going to our website: stpatricksmithtown.org. Just click as protestors pull down statues of saints, such as St. the “Donate” button at the top right. Junipero Serra in CA, calling him a colonizer when he (3) Our Parish App: In addition to its many other actually combated the cruelties of the Spanish features, the OneParish App has a donation page that colonizers. One prominent activist said that taking down statues of Jesus is acceptable so long as they depict Jesus allows quick and easy one-time or recurring donations. as white, saying, “They are a form of white supremacy." (2) You can download the One Parish App at the App Store. Opposition to core Christian beliefs on life, marriage, and gender, have affected many institutions and resulted in numerous lawsuits. An example is the Little Sisters of the

BASKETBALL IS BACK! Poor, forced by the government to provide objectionable St. Patrick’s Youth is set to reopen its basketball healthcare insurance, have taken their case to the program in the Spring of 2021. Guidelines set forth Supreme Court three times. Last summer, Msgr. Charles Pope, a popular D.C. priest, by state and local authorities will be followed to became a victim of the cancel movement after he led a ensure the safety of participants and spectators. religious procession to the Emancipation Memorial and Registration is currently open online. read Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. He Go to stpatsyouth.com/sports received so many online attacks, he had to shut down his and click on “Spring Basketball Registration” accounts. (gotquestions.org/cancel culture, 2021(1); washingtonexaminer.com, 6/23/20(2); 1.cbn.com, 6/26/20; rt.com, 6/23/20; crosswalk.com, 11/5/20)

Happening Now: Satanic Temple suing Boston City over Opening Prayer The Satanic Temple has sued Boston after the city council declined to allow Satanists to deliver an invocation at the start of its meetings. The group, which has lodged freedom of religion challenges nationwide, said that the council's policy for its opening prayer is discriminatory and unconstitutional because it does not permit prayer from every religious organization that wishes to deliver one. However, our laws do not require that Satanism be protected as a religion because it is, in fact, not a religion. It is irreligion or anti-religion, meant to deny devotion to God. "Its goal is to produce a society where religion is no longer viewed as a duty or inalienable right. Thus, granting Satanism religious-freedom protections undermines rather than strengthens religious-freedom rights by directly If you ever feel distressed during your day, call attacking their foundation: the existence of a Creator who is upon our Lady, just say this simple prayer: the source of unalienable rights." (3) “Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to (indcatholicnews.com, 2/1/21; returntoorder.org, 1/31/21; me now.” I must admit, this prayer has never thecatholicthing.org, 5/6/17(3) failed me. "Evil triumphs when good men do nothing." - St. Teresa of Calcutta - Thomas Jefferson As we journey through the Easter season, let us call to mind all our brothers and sisters on Long Island who are in need. One of the ways we can assist our neighbors and the Church is through giving to the Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA). For all of you who have given to the CMA in the past, thank you. Your gifts have helped bring the loving face of Jesus to hundreds of thousands of Long Islanders.

Each year, the CMA creates pathways of faith that guide all people to our loving Father. This year, the CMA needs your help, more now than ever before, in our efforts to spread the Good News throughout Long Island. Last year was a challenge for everyone. As the pandemic surged through our Long Island community, pastoral care was expanded to those in need.

Catholic Charities programs expanded its food programs to seniors and our parish outreach programs remained open; the Education Department was able to provide internet service to families that did not have it so that children could continue their studies and parents could continue to work; Faith Formation, Young Adult Ministry and Youth Ministry programs were able to remotely bring the faith to God’s people. All of this was accomplished because of your support and prayers.

Please consider giving to the CMA so that we can make this year’s Appeal grow substantially in gifts, so that everyone who comes to the Church for help may receive it.

Additionally, the CMA helps raise funds that help feed the poor, clothe the naked, and assist our veterans and people with disabilities. The CMA also assists women with untimely pregnancies who need assistance and seminarians who are following God’s call to the priesthood.

Our parish will also receive a share of the funds if we reach at least 80% of our parish goal; the more money our parish raises, the more we will receive in rebates.

Whatever you give, thank you for helping to create pathways of faith on Long Island. May God bless you, your family and this year’s CMA.

To make a donation, visit https://www.drvc.org/CMA/ or call 516-678-5800,ext. 296.

Rick Hinshaw has spent the past three decades in primarily Catholic communications work: as a reporter, news editor, columnist, and for eight years editor of The Long Island Catholic; several years as co-host and co-producer of “The Catholic Forum” program on the diocesan Telecare channel; two stints as Director of Communications for the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights; and a year as Associate Director for Communications at the New York State Catholic Conference. He also served for three years as Public Information Officer for the late Nassau County District Attorney Denis Dillon, a staunchly Catholic and active pro-life leader. Rick’s wealth of experience offers great insight into a variety of issues. To check out his blog, “Reading the Signs,” go to: rickhinshaw.com.

Words of Wisdom from our Level 2 Students Thank you to all our new Words of Wisdom writers! Second grade students from our Religious Formation Program and our school are asked to read the “Children and Family Reflection” column in the bulletin and write down their thoughts on cards provided for them. They then drop the cards in the collection basket on Sunday as their contribution to our parish. Below are a few of their reflections: April 4th, Easter Sunday Gospel Reading: John 20:1-9 Children & Family Reflection: When have you been very excited about good news? • I was excited when my mom got me a customized basketball jersey for my birthday. - Thomas • I was very excited when my parents told me I was going on vacation. - William • I have been excited when my mom works remotely. I love when my mommy is home. - Anthony • My mom gave me good news that I was going to have another brother and I was going to be a big brother. - Lukas • I was really excited when I found out I was getting a puppy. He brings our home a lot of love. - Nicholas • When someone says the whole class is off for one week. They will play soccer and baseball and football and basketball. They also can play video games too. - George • I was very excited when my baby cousin was born in February 2020. - Andrew

March 28th Palm Sunday Gospel Reading: Mark 14:1 - 15:47 Children & Family Reflection: Describe a time when you were treated unfairly. How did you respond?

• When I was treated unfairly, I said to him you need to treat people fair because then you will be treated the same way. - Lukas • One time I had to wear my winter jacket and my older brother did not. I felt hurt, but I listened to my mom anyway. - Nicholas • One time in school a kid who wasn’t listening got to help the teacher and I didn’t. It made me upset because it wasn’t fair. - Anthony • In school, I asked to go to the bathroom and then the teacher let someone else go to the bathroom before me. “You let someone else go to the bathroom before me,” I said. She said, “Oh I thought you said something else.” - George • This group of girls was being loud and so I went over to them and then they just said “stop.” I did nothing about it. - Connor • One time at school standing on line, three boys were in front of me. They were talking about which baseball team they liked. They were all Yankee fans. I said I like the Mets. The boys said “boo Mets.” That made me feel sad but I just ignored them. - Madeline

March 14th Gospel Reading: John 3: 14-21 Children & Family Reflection: Jesus loves our world enough to die for it. What do you love about our world?

• What I love about this world is that there is a a lot of nature and trees so we can breathe. - Anthony • I love being able to spend time with my family and friends. We share special times at places like the beach and park. I love the nature around me that God created. - Alana • What I love about the world is that we have water. You need water to drink and survive. Rain can also help the flowers bloom. - Madeline February 28th Gospel Reading: Mark 9: 2-10 Children & Family Reflection: What special place do you and your family go in order to be with God? • My family and I go to church where we can feel closer to God. - Alana

February 21st Gospel Reading: Mark 1: 12-15 Children & Family Reflection: What some things you would like to do during Lent to help your faith grow stronger?

• I drew closer to God this Lent by getting my first Reconciliation. - Andrew • I will use this time to think about my family and friends and how I can be more kind to them. - Alana Attention Level 2 Students: For your convenience, copies of the cards on which you write Reflections on the Sunday Scriptures your gospel reflections will be included in the bulletin April 18, 2021, Third Sunday of Easter most Sundays. Feel free to use the form below and Readings: Acts 3: 13-15, 17-19; 1 John 2: 1-5A; to make copies. Your reflection may be dropped into Luke 24: 36-48 the collection basket as your gift to our parish. (Please provide your first and last name. Only first The two disciples recounted what had taken place on the names will be used in the bulletin.) way, and how Jesus was made known to them in the breaking of bread. While they were still speaking about this, he stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” But they were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost. Then he said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” And as he said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While they were still incredulous for joy and were amazed, he asked them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of baked fish; he took it and ate it in front of them. He said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And he said to them, “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.”

Focus Questions: 1. Describe someone in your life for whom Christ is truly alive. How does this person’s example influence the way you live? 2. Relate a time when your heart was opened by the breaking of the bread. 3. Relate a time when you let someone down and expected to be called on it. Instead the other person offered friendship and forgiveness.

Children & Family Reflection: What can you do to bring peace to your family, your community or your world?

Check Out our Knights of Columbus Ingratitude is the soul’s enemy. It is a burning wind that dries up the source of love, the dew Knights of Columbus of mercy and the streams of grace.” Spend Smithtown today in a spirit of thanksgiving for God’s many 199 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset gifts and blessings which, all too often, we take for granted. Our Council is open Wednesday evenings at 4:00 - St. Bernard PM, and Thursday and Friday evenings at 6:00 PM. Stop by and say “Hello.” Nightly drink specials, Hall rental available.

Visit us at: knightsofcolumbussmithtown.org

St. Patrick Youth

Some of our youth programs are not offered at SPORTS PROGRAMS this time due to Covid-19. Please call Spring Deck Hockey 631-360-0185 for information. Spring season is underway St. Patrick’s Youth web address is: Spring Basketball stpatsyouth.com Registration is now open for a spring basketball season beginning after Easter. Go to stpatsyouth.com/sports All forms and registrations are and click on “Spring Basketball Registration.” available on our website. Youth Office email is [email protected] Our phone is 631-360-0185 Are You on Our

VIRTUS Training Parish Email List? All volunteers/coaches are required to attend a VIRTUS class if they have not done so. On-line Our parish stays in touch with parishioners via registration must be completed before you attend. email concerning important announcements, Christmas and See VIRTUS.org for information and registration. Easter schedules, and reflections from our pastor, Fr. Walden, CPR/First Aide and more. If you would like to join our email list, just email us at Training courses are available and will be available [email protected] and we will add you to our list! throughout the year. Call 631-360-0185. Read the Bible in a year challenge! St. Patrick’s Youth challenges you to read the Bible Pray for the Sick in a year! Just go to the website and you will find Lillian Adams Richard D. Anna LoBrutto the link with daily readings Thomas Adams Andrew DiLeo Chris M. Enrichment/Before and Aftercare Program Laura Alam Kenneth Cook Mary Ann M. Before Care – Our program is offered Monday Dennis Anderson Anthony Costaro, III C. Madden through Friday following the St. Patrick School Russ Anderson Dee Covello Paul Mason schedule. It begins at until 8:20 AM Allan Ahrens Marie Crowley Alison McDonald Caroline Arnold Joseph Cuccia After Care- Our program is offered Monday through Robert McGinley Don Atmanchuk Sr. Grace Demille Dustin McGranahan Friday following the St. Patrick School schedule, J.M.A. Karen Dempsey James McLean from 2:20 to 6:00 PM Fil Antonucci Matthew DiStefano Kathleen N. You must register in advance. Grace B. Richard DeVilla Catherine Grimaldi Pane You may download forms from our website Lenore Baran Lina Espinal Rose Pastore 3,4,5 year old Enrichment Program – John Bartley Salvatore Esposito Connie Polik Our program offers NY State guided curriculum Judith Bartley Debra Fischer Fred Polik along with daily religion, music, arts and crafts and Rose Bevers Paulina Franchini Patty Regano gross motor play. Michael Biondo Robert Gann Zena Romanzi Ann Bono Ralph Garofalo Ariel Ruvinsky Playtime with Mommy/Caregiver – Ashley Borino Marilyn Gast Children ages 18 months through 2 years. Sara Anthony Borrelli Alan Giglio Renee S. Creative fun, play, crafts, light snack & music time Agnes Black Mary Gorman Geraci Bea S. Separation Class Brady Browning Elinor Glasser Lawrence Savery Children ages 2 to 3 years old George Bruckbauer Thomas Gould Joan Schiavoni Circle time, music, playing and sharing Francis C. Bob Heimink Tankyard Schiavoni Small group instruction, crafts and snack time Mike C. Mary Heimink Anna Sicuranza Music Ministry Rick C. Robert Heimink, Jr. Theresa Soriano Folk Group (Grades 6 -12) Jim Cangialosi Linda Hennig Jacqueline Spinelli Daniel Carrano Steven Iglio Children’s Choir (Grades 1-5) Christine Strecker Joseph Cascone Cynthia Kambos Christine Thompson Children’s Choir practice: Dee Covello Thomas Keane 6:15 to 7:00 PM in Keegan Hall John Walsh Tom Clark Mary K. John Weiss Folk Group practice: Maria Clarke Bassam Khudari James Wheeler 7:15 to 8:30 PM in the church Richard Collaro Linda Larche Marie Z. New members always welcome! Carly Colvell Matthew LaTorre Sarah Ziegenbein Junior Catholic Daughters John Lawler JCDA is a young women’s service organization Young women grades 5 -11 are welcome! Those listed under “Prayers for the Sick” remain on the list for a JCDA meet every 3rd Tuesday of the month in our limited period of time. If you would like to add a name or return a modular classroom from 6:30 to 7:30 PM name to the list, please call Parish Outreach at 631-265-2668. Call Patty Davis at 631-780-6313 for details Learning Center Pray for the Dead Tutoring for Pre-K through High School All areas of study, catholic entrance exam Michael Dominick D’Agostino Peter Martin, D.C. and SAT preparation Charles P. Imperial Eugene John Simon Carmela J. Izzi Anthony J. Wannick, Sr. Sr. Patricia Ann Kenny Parting Shot . . . . Easter Treats for our Priests - If anyone deserved an Easter basket this Easter, it would be our hard working priests. Pictured are St. Patrick School first grade students presenting an Easter basket for the St. Patrick priests to Fr. Walden.

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