St. Francis of Assisi St. Bernard of Clairvaux

St. Bernard of Clairvaux

St. Francis of Assisi

Our Mother of Perpetual Help (A Secondary Mission Church) ST. BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX CHURCH BRADFORD,AUGUST 8, 2021 PA

To get discouraged or down in the dumps is normal, none of us can escape the possibility of feeling that way. In the first reading, that is what Elijah, the prophet, is experiencing. He pictures himself as a failure because the people are ignoring the words that God has given him to say. Basically, he is tired of fighting with them and making no progress. But as the reading continues, God does not give up on Elijah. He sends an angel and provides him with food for the journey to the mountain of God. There, Elijah is rejuvenated by God and goes back to the people to continue the work of God. In the gospel, like Elijah, Jesus is meeting with more and more opposition to His message. The people had a hard time ac- cepting Jesus for who He was. For the most part they only saw Him as the son of Joseph and Mary. They saw Him as One who could feed them on a regular basis, as evidenced by the multiplication of loaves and fishes twice. He too got discouraged at times, that is why He went up to the mountain to pray for solace and comfort from His Father. The He would come down and continue the work. Like Elijah and Jesus, we too become discouraged and down in the dumps, it is part of being human. We like to have things run smoothly in our life. Yes, at times it does seem dark with no way out. It is at that time we have to stop and regroup. We are not lost; we are not abandoned. God is there with us in our darkness. It is a time to remember the “Footprints in the Sand” poem by Margaret Fishback Powers: In a dream sequence, the author saw himself walking along the beach with Jesus. Later, when he looked back, he noticed two sets of footprints, then one set, then two sets, then one set, and so on. He asked the Lord why He would leave him during his most trying times. But the Lord responded: “My precious child, I love you and will never leave you. Never, ever during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.” So, when things seem depressing and hopeless, remember that that is when Jesus has you on His shoulders. On another note…. I’d like to call your attention to the new railings in front of St. Bernard Church made possible by your generous giving. St. Francis also has had some roof repairs done to stop the nuisance leak. Your contributions to CSA and to the regular weekly collections have made these repairs possible. As you can see, we have already met our CSA assessment for St. Bernard and are less that $5,000 from meeting it at St. Francis. Remember, that any overage stays with the parishes and helps us to pay for special projects like the above mentioned. Thank you all so very much! God bless, Fr. Ray

LAST WEEK’S COLLECTIONS

DIOCESAN SPECIAL COLLECTION St. Bernard - Needed Weekly: $ 4,745 CHURCH IN LATIN AMERICA August 1 ..……. $ 6,411

The Office of Diocesan and International Missions reminds 2021 SB CSA Assessment……………$ 34,619 everyone to contribute to the Aug. 14-15 Collection for the SB 2021 CSA Collected………$ 36,102

Church in Latin America. For many in Latin America and the Caribbean, a rising secular culture, difficult rural terrain and St. Francis of Assisi - Needed Weekly: $ 3,952 a shortage of ministers all present obstacles to practicing August 1 .….….$ 3,296 2021 SF CSA Assessment……………$ 22,249 the faith. Your support for the collection provides lay leader- SF 2021 CSA Collected………$18,610 ship training, catechesis, priestly and religious formation, and other programs. Please be generous to this special col- OUR PARISHES THANK YOU lection. FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS AUGUST 8, 2021

UPCOMING MEETINGS Catholic Women: TBA Rosary Altar: TBA K of C #403 : Tuesday, August 10th @ 7 pm - SB Office "Jesus Christ Superstar" presented by the Olean Commu- Bradford Catholic Community Members nity Theatre and the Cattaraugus County Living Arts Asso- ciation at the Ray Evans Seneca Theater, Salamanca, NY. ~ Looking for fellowship? Tickets $15 at the door or online at www.showclix.com ~ Want to see a familiar face? Showtimes: Then you will want to come to Friday, August 13th The Tri Parish Catholic Community Gathering and Once a month EVERYONE: Men, Women, and Families Saturday, August 14th, 7:30 p.m. are invited to spend less than an hour Sunday, August 15th, 2:00 p.m. REJOICING, REFLECTING AND RECONNECTING With others from our parishes DATE: September 12, 2021 TIME: After 10:00 Mass PLACE: Fr Leo Social Hall PURPOSE: Rejoice, Reflect, Reconnect Come see what this gathering is all about! Sponsored by the Catholic Women’s Club. NEW PROGAM AT ST. BERNARD CHURCH St. Bernard parish is looking to pilot a Sunday School pro- To St. Francis Parishioners: gram this fall. Kids under 5 can gather during the 10 am Beginning with your August/September envelopes, mass and participate in a child-friendly Bible story, crafts, you will notice a change. In order to centralize the songs, and more. If you would consider using this service purchase of envelopes and take advantage of a for your kids, or are a woman of the parish (moms, aunts, great promotion, we have contracted with Our grandmas!) who would consider volunteering, please con- Sunday Visitor to provide our offertory envelopes. tact Ruby Morris at 740-632-4717. We are hoping for a handful of parishioners to get started and will then schedule The weekly envelope will look like this: an informational meeting. Note: all child-safety clearances will be in order before this program can commence.

Parenting Pointers When Jesus talked about being “the bread of life” the Jews didn’t under- stand what he meant and complained. Jesus responded, “Stop murmur- ing among yourselves.” (John 6: 43). Sometimes we complain about food too. What’s each family member’s favorite food? Can you treat each member to their favorite food sometime this week?

Special collection envelopes will be in different col- ors to help differentiate them from St. Bernard’s. If you have any questions or need to change any OTT& MCHENRY PHARMACY mailing information please call the parish office. PLEASE GIVE THEM YOUR SUPPORT! AUGUST 8, 2021 OBLIGATION TO ATTEND MASS ON FAMILY LIFE SUNDAYS AND HOLY DAYS “Stop murmuring” Jesus told the disciples in today’s gospel. REINSTATED BEGINNING AUG. 15 Complaining is a dead-end; constant complaining is nag- ging. We might feel better but others feel bitter. Silence or Although parishioners have been enjoying the opportunity to grumbling will not resolve the problem. Address differences return to Mass in increasing numbers since pandemic re- honestly and respectfully. Don’t make them personal at- strictions have eased, the Catholic bishops of Pennsylvania tacks. — including Bishop Lawrence Persico — are making it offi- cial. As of Aug. 15, 2021, the Solemnity of the Assumption BACA Teachers Wanted of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the dispensation from the obliga- If you are called to serve as a teacher who is passionate about guiding young people through their academic and spiritual journey tion to attend Mass on Sundays and holy days will be lifted. the Bradford Area Christian Academy is looking for you! Please As always, the obligation does not apply to those with seri- apply online at: www.bacaacademy.com/openpositions ous illness or health risks, as well as their caregivers. MARRIAGE MOMENTS It’s summer. It’s hot in the northern hemisphere. How do you and your beloved keep cool? If you’re lucky enough to have air-conditioning. Be thankful and help someone who doesn’t. If you live in the southern hemisphere – just wait. AUGUST 8, 2021 AUGUST 8, 2021

BULLETIN INFORMATION MUST BE RECEIVED IN WRITING BY NOON ON FRIDAY 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO BULLETIN DATE.

Bright Alternatives walk for Life will be held Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Hamlin Lake MEMBERSHIP: All Baptized Catholics should be registered, practicing and supporting members of a in Smethport. More information will be future Parish. Only properly registered members appear bulletins later. To make a pledge or to walk for on our parish list and are eligible to receive the this very worthy cause, call Joyce Geis at benefits of parish membership for sacraments. Each (814)362-6117. There are also informational parishioner is called upon to practice good fliers in the churches. The Walk For Life is stewardship of time, talent and treasure. If you are one of our biggest fundraisers of the year and not currently receiving envelopes, you may not be registered. Call the Parish Office - we would love to one we always look forward to. This is a family meet you! event; everyone is invited to participate even if they cannot do the physical walk. The day MARRIAGE: Couples need to contact a priest at least six months before their wedding. Registered includes activities, prizes, and food! Fun for all and active participation needs to be considered ages. More information can be found at before marriage. https://brightalternatives.org/walk/ We welcome all inquiries about the Catholic faith. This RCIA process begins in the fall of the year. Please call the Parish Office for further information.

PASTORAL CARE OF THE SICK: Please call PASTORAL STAFF: the Parish Office to request the Sacrament of the Rev. Raymond C. Gramata, Pastor Sick for family members who are seriously ill. Rev. James Gutting, Senior Associate Communion for the sick is taken to the hospital, OFFICE HOURS: nursing homes, and the home-bound on a regular Monday thru Friday: 8 am to 4 pm basis.

(Now OPEN through lunch hour) BAPTISM: Both parents must attend the Pre- Wendy Thomson, Office Manager Baptism Preparation Program. Please call the St. Lisa Kuret, Administrative Assistant Bernard Parish Office for dates and times of MASS SCHEDULE: Please consult bulletin upcoming class. Baptisms are scheduled after

CONFESSIONS: completing the program. Call the Parish Office to St. Bernard — Saturdays from 4:30 to 5 pm before schedule the class and baptism. Godparents must be 5:15 mass, Thursday before First Friday at least 16, confirmed and active, registered from 4:30 to 5 pm. members of their parish. St. Francis — After 9 am mass on Saturdays.

Private appointments may be made by calling the Liturgical Parish Office (362-6825). Altar Servers, Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors

Organist St. Bernard Rita Bennardi REP Coordinator: Kim VanHorn Organist St. Francis Michael Hicks Students not attending Catholic school should be Resurrection Choir Joan Raabe enrolled in REP programs. The Bradford Catholic God’s Housekeepers Parish Office Community Religious Education program meets at Liturgy Fr. Raymond C. Gramata

follows: Parish Community Grades 1-7, 11:00 am every other Sunday morning Parish Council Fr. Raymond Gramata at St. Bernard in Fr. Leo Gallina Social Center Catholic Women’s Club Teri Everett Grades 8, 9, 10 & 11(Confirmation), 5:45 pm Rosary Altar Society every other Sunday evening Telephone Prayer Chain Natalie Marasco (598-5565) at Fr. Leo Gallina Social Center For more info call the parish office 362-6825 Cover photos of churches by LongArt Photography MINISTER SCHEDULE FOR MASSES AUGUST 14 - 15

Saturday: SB 5:15 pm Lector: Mary Anne Stauffer EM: Kim VanHorn Monday, Aug 9 Servers: Laryssa Webster/Volunteer SB 8:00 am Chicki Galbraith (Mariann Pascarella) Sunday: SF 8:00 am SF 9:00 am George Kaczmarek (Family) Lector: Judy Randolph Tuesday, Aug 10 EM: Chris Pehonsky SF 9:00 am Lawrence Bernhard (Mike & DawnKozminski) Servers: Samantha Soyke Wednesday, Aug 11 SB 10:00 am SB 8:00 am Thomas Burke (David, Andy & Sara Nuzzo) Lector: Rhett Kennedy Thursday, Aug 12 EM: Kim Lance SB 8:00 am Rick Wareham (Family) Servers: Ward Kennedy/Volunteer SF 9:00 am Parishioners OM 11:30 am Aug 13 Lector: David Ditz SB 8:00 am Helen Platko (Family) EM: Kim Ditz Saturday, Aug 14 Servers: Jacob Hannahs SF 9:00 am Mac & Maxine Healy (Steve & Family) SB 5:15 pm Carla Zandi Shamblen (Family) : No visits until further notice Sunday, Aug 15 - THE ASSUMPTION OF MARY SF 8:00 am Humbert & Anna Piscitelli (Louise Stoltz) SB 10:00 am Judy Mongillo (Catholic Women’s Group) PRAYER REQUESTS FOR PRIESTS OM 11:30 am Mary Ann Tanty (Quenton & Julie DeGolier) Please Pray for the Following Priests Sun, Aug 8 - Rev. Msgr. David A. Rubino (Weekly confessions: Saturdays after 9 am St. Francis Mass Mon, Aug 9 - The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico and at 4:30 pm before 5:15 pm St. Bernard Mass) Tues, Aug 10 - Rev. Raymond W. Hahn Wed, Aug 11 - Rev. Justin P. Pino GOD’S HOUSEKEEPERS Thurs, Aug 12 - Rev. Brandon Kleckner Our beloved housekeepers have been Fri, Aug 13 - Very Rev. Michael T. Kesicki retired! We have enlisted volunteers from Sat, Aug 14 - The Most Rev. Donald W. Trautman Futures, Inc. to take over the cleaning of St. Bernard Church. Please thank these volunteers, when you see them, for their years of service! Thomas Ackley, Virgil Anderson, Mary Beth Behan, Paisley READINGS FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 8, 2021 Behan, Barb Bernheisel, Theresa Bond, Barbara Boser, Sunday: 1 Kgs 19:4-8/Ps 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 [9a]/Eph Bonnie Buccolini, Gigi Carroll, Dominic “Frank” Cavallero, Annie Champagne, Gerry Cierpilowski, Dick Clark, Melissa 4:30—5:2/Jn 6:41-51 Cox, Billie Cummins, Paul & Marianne Curcio, Charlotte Monday: Dt 10:12-22/Ps 147:12-13, 14-15, Cuthbertson, Denise Douthit, Richard Douthit, Alliyson 19-20 [12a]/Mt 17:22-27 Feldman, Stepheny Franco, Pat Geary, Chip Giordano, Pat Tuesday: 2 Cor 9:6-10/Ps 112:1-2, 5-6, 7- Girard, Rick Grandinetti, Paul Hamer, Jill Henry, Craig 8, 9 [5]/Jn 12:24-26 Johnson, Lilly Keesler, Judy Keenan, Mary Keesler, James Wednesday: Dt 34:1-12/Ps 66:1-3a, 5 and Kibby, Bill Kline, Craig Kloss, Mason LaBrozzi, Shirley 8, 16-17 [cf. 20a and 10b]/Mt 18:15-20 Lerch, Elizabeth Lindemuth, Don Long, Paula Louk, Jude Thursday: Jos 3:7-10a, 11, 13-17/Ps 114:1-2, 3-4, 5-6/ Luke, Barbara Matto, Chester Meyer, Mariana Militelo, Joe Mt 18:21—19:1 Monago, Lou Monti, Christy Moyer, Mary O’Connell, Pete Palumbo, Dom Piganelli, John Pockey, Dan Popiel, Friday: Jos 24:1-13/Ps 136:1-3, 16-18, 21-22 Courtney Prentiss, Angela Rimer, Steve Schmidt, Judy and 24/Mt 19:3-12 Signor, Steve Skaggs, Hailey Smith, Alex Tingley, David Saturday:Jos 24:14-29/Ps 16:1-2a, and 5, 7-8, 11 [cf. 5a]/ Tominez, Matthew Whelan, Beckett Whitney, Corrine Mt 19:13-15 Wilson, Donna Whitford, Christine Yeager, Lisa Zurat & Next Sunday: Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab/Ps 45:10, 11, 12, those affected by Covid-19.

16 [10bc]/1 Cor 15:20-27/Lk 1:39-56 May they be strengthened by the healing presence of God’s Spirit.