Understanding Your Parish 2014 A Call to Communion: Co-Responsibility for the Good of the Church

Saint Ann Catholic Church • Maronite Rite Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn

Revised on 12/2013 2014-002 Understanding your parish Booklet 2014 (2013-12-21)

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Saint Ann Catholic Church – Maronite Rite 1919 3RD Avenue, Watervliet, New York Established in 1905 in Troy, New York

For the glory of God and in honor of Saint Ann, This Building (erected in 1850) is hereby consecrated and dedicated by His Excellency the Most Reverend Gregory John Mansour, S.T.L., Bishop of Saint Maron of Brooklyn, with the Clergy and the Faithful gathered on Saturday, May 18, 2013.

“Indeed, goodness and mercy will pursue me all the days of my life; I will dwell in the house of the LORD for endless days.” (Psalm 23: 6)

Reverend Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M. Pastor, Saint Ann Catholic Church

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Table of Contents

Life of Saint Ann, the Patroness of our Parish ...... 7 Introduction to the Maronite Catholic Church ...... 8 The Maronite Church in the United States ...... 9 History of Saint Ann Maronite Catholic Church ...... 10 Priests and Religious who served St. Ann’s ...... 11 Sisters serving the Parish of St. Ann ...... 11 St. Ann’s Vocations ...... 11 Awards & Honorees of St. Ann’s ...... 12 Parish Special Recognition ...... 12 Silver Massabki Awards ...... 12 Lifetime Trustees Award ...... 12 Michael-David HANNOUSH Scholarship ...... 12 “Jewel of Saint Ann” Award ...... 12 Extraordinary Friend of Saint Ann Recognition ...... 12 Saint Ann’s Parish Prayer ...... 13 Vision & Mission Statement ...... 14 2014 Parish Theme ...... 15 Listing of Active Registered Parishioners ...... 16 Leadership body of Saint Ann Catholic Church ...... 17 Pastor ...... 17 Pastoral Assistants ...... 18 Board of Trustees ...... 18 Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) ...... 19 Parish Finance Council (PFC) ...... 20 Organizations of Saint Ann Catholic Church ...... 21 Daughters of Saint Ann (DSA) ...... 21 Saint Maron Men’s Society (SMMS) ...... 21 Maronite Youth Organization (MYO) ...... 22 Standing Committees of St. Ann Catholic Church ...... 23 Spiritual & Liturgical Committee ...... 23

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Christian Formation Committee ...... 25 Family & Sanctity of Life Committee ...... 26 Building & Maintenance Committee ...... 27 Collections Counters ...... 27 Media Services...... 28 Administrative Services ...... 28 Parish Guidelines ...... 29 Welcome Visitors...... 29 Parish Registration ...... 29 Religious Education Registration ...... 29 Baptism & Confirmation Arrangements ...... 29 Requirements for Godparent ...... 30 Mass Intentions ...... 30 Donating the Sanctuary Lamp ...... 30 Offering Altar flowers ...... 30 Gift Bearers ...... 30 Lenten Retreat ...... 30 Penance & Reconciliation Service ...... 30 Communion for the sick and homebound ...... 31 Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick & Prayers for healing ... 31 Eucharistic Adoration ...... 31 Rosary Recitation ...... 31 Thanksgiving Prayers Intentions...... 31 Arrangements for Funeral Services ...... 31 Weekly Parish Bulletin Mailing Letter ...... 32 Volunteer Spiritual Retreat ...... 32 Adult Faith Formation Opportunities ...... 33 Pre-baptismal Instruction ...... 33 Sacramental Instruction: First penance & First Holy Communion ...... 33 Marriage Preparation for the Sacrament of Matrimony ...... 33 Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) ...... 33 Women’s Bible Study ...... 34 Virtus for Catechist and Parents ...... 34 Social Events & Major Parish Fundraisers ...... 35 Facility Scheduling ...... 35 Sunday Morning Coffee Hour ...... 35 Christmas Party & Play ...... 35 Parish Picnic ...... 35 Annual Lebanese Hafli ...... 35 Outrageous October Raffle ...... 36

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50/50 Raffle ...... 36 Annual Charity Golf Tournament ...... 36 Memorial Messages & Business Ads for Bulletin ...... 36 Parish Outreach To Others ...... 37 Maronite Calendar ...... 37 Eparchial Bishop’s Appeal & Assessment ...... 37 Michael-David HANNOUSH Scholarship ...... 37 Mass for Graduates ...... 37 Maronite Day at the Shrine of our Lady of the Martyrs, Auriesville, NY ...... 37 Services at St. Mary’s & Samaritan Hospitals ...... 37 Order of Saint Charbel ...... 38 National Apostolate of Maronites (NAM) ...... 38 Saint Ann’s Events & Activities 2014 ...... 39 Contact Information ...... 44 Address ...... 44 Mass Schedule ...... 44 Liturgical Services ...... 44 Office Hours ...... 44

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His Holiness Pope Francis

His Beatitude Patriarch Bechara Boutros Rai, His Excellency, The Most Reverend Gregory Patriarch of the Maronite Catholic Church John MANSOUR, Bishop of the Eparchy of meets His Holiness Pope Francis in Rome – Saint Maron of Brooklyn meets Pope Emeritus Italy. Benedict XVI in Rome – Italy.

(Left to right: Chorbishop Joseph KADDO, His Excellency Gregory John MANSOUR, His Excellency Howard HUBBARD, Reverend Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M.) Taken by Rosemary Patnode on Saturday, May 18, 2013, for the occasion of the Consecration & Dedication of St. Ann Church in Watervliet

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Life of Saint Ann, the Patroness of our Parish

Saint Ann (or Saint Anne) believed to be the mother of the Virgin Mary, and therefore the grandmother of Christ, is not mentioned at all in the Bible.

Ann was married to Joachim of Nazareth. They were childless, which was a great source of embarrassment and agony to the typical family of the time. Ann and Joachim both suffered from not having a child. Joachim went for a 40 day and night retreat to a shepherd's hut for deep prayer to God. Ann herself also spent time praying for a child.

While in prayer, an angel came to her and announced that she would have a child and must consecrate it to the Lord. An angel also appeared to Joachim and he rushed to Jerusalem to Ann. Supposedly they met and embraced at the Golden Gate in Jerusalem. This image is one of two that are most often used by artists in portrayal of Saint Ann. Nine months later, the child Mary was born to the couple. They consecrated her to God as they had promised.

As with the other details of her life, her date and location of death are not known. In the eighth century, Pope Constantine declared July 26th as her feast day. The Eastern churches celebrate her feast on September 9th, the following day of the Virgin Nativity Feast day.

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Introduction to the Maronite Catholic Church

The Maronite Catholic Church is one of 22 Eastern Catholic Churches in full communion with the Holy See of Rome. The Maronite Church, with its unique liturgy, theology, spirituality and discipline, is prominent especially in modern Lebanon. The Maronite Church has her own cultural and linguistic tradition, and is guided by a patriarch, major archbishop, metropolitan or other hierarch, who along with their synod of bishops are in full communion with the Pope and is guided by a patriarch, her father and head, and over 40 bishops who shepherd eparchies (dioceses) throughout the world. The Maronite Church in the United States is divided into two eparchies (dioceses); Bishop Gregory MANSOUR heads the Eparchy of St. Maron of Brooklyn (the eastern U.S.) and Bishop Elias-Abdallah ZAIDAN the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles (the western U.S.). The Maronite Church dates back to the early Christians of Antioch where “they were called Christians for the first time.” (Acts 11:26). The Church still uses as its liturgical language Syriac, a dialect of the Aramaic that Jesus himself spoke, and takes her name from the hermit-priest, Saint Maron, who died in 410 AD. The members of the Maronite Church are a part of the Syriac people; though they have, over time, developed a distinctive Maronite character, this has not obscured their Antiochene and Syriac origin. After Saint Maron’s death, over 800 monks adopted his way of life and became known as the Maronites. The Muslim invasions and conflicts from within the Byzantine Empire caused the Maronites to flee the plains of Syria to the natural protection of the mountains of Lebanon. By 687 AD, the Maronites elected Saint John-Maron, a patriarch of the vacant See of Antioch and developed as a distinct church within the Catholic Church; he became the first Maronite Patriarch. Throughout their history, the Maronites have been united in a strong bond with the Christians in Europe. They fought heresies against Church teachings and supported the Crusades. They fought against the hostilities and intolerance from the Turks in the 17th through 19th centuries, retreating to the Mountains of Lebanon and Egypt and Cyprus. Throughout these tribulations, the Maronites, through the leadership of their own Patriarchs, retained their spirituality, traditions and identity as one of the 22 distinct Eastern Catholic Churches, and always remained loyal to and in union with the Patriarch of the western Church, the Pope. The Maronites began immigrating to the United States in the late 19th century. A Maronite seminary was established in Washington, D.C. in 1961. In addition to priests, the Maronite Church also has communities of religious men and women who serve the Church. There are 86 Maronite parishes and missions across the United States. The Maronite Church welcomes everyone to attend her liturgies, even though many, who attend, have a Lebanese or Syrian background. For more complete information about the Maronite Catholic Church, visit www.usmaronites.com

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The Maronite Church in the United States

Immigration of Maronite faithful from the Middle East to the United States began during the latter part of 19th century. When the faithful were able to obtain a priest, communities were established as parishes under the jurisdiction of the local Latin bishops. During the Industrial Revolution, the Maronites, suffering from racking poverty and fear of further religious and political oppression, saw the United States as a safe haven and full of opportunity. They immigrated to towns and cities in New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Louisiana, Virginia and Texas. A Maronite Seminary was opened in Washington, DC in 1961, giving men born and raised in the US the opportunity to become Maronite priests. The U.S. Maronites, however, still did not have their own bishop. Pope Paul VI, with the apostolic constitution Cum supremi of January 10, 1966, established the Maronite Apostolic Exarchate for the Maronite Faithful of the United States. The Most Reverend Francis-Mansour ZAYEK, a bishop since 1962, was appointed the first Exarch in a decree of the Sacred Congregation for the Eastern Churches dated January 27, 1966. The see city was Detroit, Michigan, with a cathedral under the patronage of Saint Maron. At that time, the Exarchate was assigned as suffragan to the Archdiocese of Detroit. On November 29, 1971, Pope Paul VI, with the apostolic constitution Qua spes, elevated the Exarchate to the status of an Eparchy, with the name of Eparchy of Saint Maron of Detroit. With a decree the Sacred Congregation for the Eastern Churches dated June 27, 1977, the see of the Eparchy of Saint Maron was transferred to Brooklyn, NY, with the cathedral under the patronage of our Lady of Lebanon. The name of the Eparchy was modified to Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn. Bishop Zayek was succeeded by Bishop Stephen Hector Doueihy and then by the Most Reverend Gregory John MANSOUR, our current bishop. With the apostolic constitution Omnium Catholicirum of March 12, 1994, the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon was established with the Cathedral at Los Angeles, CA under the patronage of Our Lady of Lebanon. The Most Reverend Elias-Abdallah ZAIDAN is the actual Bishop of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles. The territory of the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn is compromised of the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia. The Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn is a constitutive part of the Antiochene Syriac Maronite Church and Bishop Gregory John MANSOUR is a member of the Patriarchal Synod of Bishops. However, in conformity with the Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches, the Eparchy is under the direct jurisdiction of the Roman Pontiff.

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History of Saint Ann Maronite Catholic Church

In the later part of the 19th and early 20th centuries, Lebanese Maronite merchants and others moved to Troy, a prosperous industrial city. In response to their desires to fulfill their spiritual needs, a Maronite priest, Father Gabriel Korkemaz, was sent to the US to establish Maronite parishes. That same priest was requested to come to Troy in 1905 and established St. Ann Maronite Church there on Havemans Avenue. The parish moved to its temporary house of worship on Hill Street until a new church was built. In 1912 the parish was incorporated, opening their new church building on 190 Fourth Street. The parish thrived. Circa 1940, women of the parish formed the Daughters of St. Ann, which is still active today. Tragedy struck the parish in 1959 when, following the conclusion of a novena, a fire swept through the church. The devastated parish community raised enough money to build a new church on the site of their shrine to Saint Ann which had previously been constructed on an adjoining parcel of land. Until the new church building was completed, Divine Liturgy was celebrated in a nearby storefront. On October 23, 1960 the Most Reverend William Scully, Bishop of Albany celebrated Mass and dedicated the new church on Fourth Street in Troy. St Ann parish continued to flourish on Fourth Street in Troy under the leadership of various Maronite pastors. Our current Pastor, Reverend Georges Bouchaaya, M.L.M. (Maronite Lebanese Missionaries) was assigned to the parish in June 2010. The church on Fourth Street underwent some much needed repair and renovation. In 2005, the Parish of Saint Ann celebrated their 100th anniversary. That same year, the parish acquired the former Third Street Methodist/Episcopal Church building and adjoining residence, both in need of extensive repair, across the Hudson River in Watervliet, NY. In 2006 the rectory and church building in Watervliet were recognized as historic sites and placed on both the NYS and National Register of Historical Sites. The stained glass windows in the newly acquired church along with its façade were restored under two grants. The Knights of Columbus, Watervliet Chapter donated to St Ann for the restoration of the 1911 Steere and Co. pipe organ. After seven years the restoration of the Watervliet church was finally completed in December 2012. On December 2, 2012, following the last Divine Liturgy at the Troy church, parishioners carried in a motorcade procession the Blessed Sacrament, statuary and other church belongings to our new home. The first Divine Liturgy in the new church was celebrated on Dec 9, 2012. The Solemn consecration and dedication of our new church was held on May 18, 2013 by his Excellency, Most Reverend Gregory John MANSOUR, bishop of the Eparchy of St. Maron of Brooklyn. On that occasion, the parish received the Papal Blessing from his Holiness, Pope Francis. We hold in deep regard our Maronite Catholic heritage and its long history in the capital region. St. Ann church has been in existence and continuously active for over one hundred years and looks forward to continuing our religious traditions at our new home in Watervliet.

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Priests and Religious who served St. Ann’s

“I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will shepherd you wisely and prudently.” (Jeremiah 3:15)

1. Father Gabriel Korkemaz (+) (1905 – 1909) – [Founder] 2. Msgr. Stephen Korkemaz (+) (1909 – 1947) 3. Father Paul Korkemaz (+) (1947 – 1976) 4. Father Joseph E. Keyrouze (+) (1950 – 1961) – [Native son of the Parish] 5. Father (Chorbishop) Joseph F. Kaddo (1972 – 1973) – [Native son of the Parish] 6. Father John Korkemaz (+) (1976 – 1978) 7. Father Elias Njeim (1979 – 1980) 8. Father Thomas Coover (1980 – 1981) 9. Father Donald N. Thomas (+) (1981 – 1986) 10. Father Paul Mooradd (Feb. 1987 – Aug. 1987) 11. Father Hares D. Zogheib (+) (Sept. 1987 – Aug. 1993) 12. Father John Morrison (Sept. 1993 – Sept. 1998) 13. Father David Wm. Mickiewicz (Sept. 1998 – Apr. 2001) – [Sacramental Minister] 14. Father Elie G. Kairouz (April 2001 – May 2010) 15. Father Georges Bouchaaya, M.L.M. (June 2010 – …)

Sisters serving the Parish of St. Ann Sr. Florence-Joseph FLAHERTY D.C. (Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul)

St. Ann’s Vocations 1. Father Joseph E. Keyrouze (+) (Diocesan priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany) 2. Brother William Burns (+) (Christians Brothers) 3. Sister Rose Aruse Attea (+) (Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet Order) 4. Father John Turner (+) (Order of the Vincentians) 5. Chorbishop Joseph F. Kaddo (Diocesan priest of the Eparchy of St. Maron of Brooklyn) 6. Brother Paul Hoover (Most Holy Trinity Monastery) 7. Mr. Richard Thornton, Sr. (Candidate to the Permanent Diaconate of the Eparchy of St. Maron of Brooklyn)

PS: (+) designates deceased.

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Awards & Honorees of St. Ann’s

Parish Special Recognition Peter REZEY (+) 1960?

Silver Massabki Awards Michael DEETS (+ 1987) 1975 Carol-Ann SHUFELT 1989 Frank P. GAZELEY (+ 2004) 1976 Adele MAZLOOM (+ 2007) 1995 Alfred (+ 2000) & Lilian DEED 1978 Richard THONRTON, Sr. 1996 Wadad FRANGIE 1980 Georgette HANNOUSH 2011 Edith PATNODE (+ 2011) 1988 Henry NAHAL 2012

Lifetime Trustees Award Nabih KORKEMAZ (Sunday, February 03, 2013) Wadad FRANGIE (Sunday, February 03, 2013)

Michael-David HANNOUSH Scholarship Joumana A. EID (Sunday, June 03, 2012)

“Jewel of Saint Ann” Award Sayed FRANGIEH (Sunday, December 22, 2013) Jim TRAA (Sunday, December 22, 2013) Samia NICHOLAS (Sunday, December 22, 2013) Carolyn LALLI (Sunday, December 22, 2013)

Extraordinary Friend of Saint Ann Recognition City of Watervliet (Sunday, December 08, 2013)

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Saint Ann’s Parish Prayer1

O Lord, our God, guided by their love for you, under the discipleship of Saint Maron, our ancestors in faith founded this parish in honor of your Christ grandmother, Saint Ann. The tenderness of your Fatherly care, the glory of your Christ Cross and the splendor of the Spirit's love have been our guiding light. You have built up our community and made her foundations firm in the faith, binding her stones with love. We thank you for your generous gifts and for all the graces you have bestowed upon us. Gathered in your name, we humbly ask you to be our guide and protector on the journey we are about to take. In your infinite love and mercy, bless our families and guard this community. Through the intercession of our mother Mary, and our patroness, Saint Ann, may our church serve as a beacon of light to draw your lost sheep back to the fold. Breathe into us a new spirit that we may bear your name, not only in our words, but in our actions as well. O Good Saint Ann, pray for us! Amen.

1 This prayer was prepared by Carolyn LALLI and approved for our parish use on March 2012 by His Excellency Most Reverend Gregory-John MANSOUR, S.T.L., Bishop of the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn.

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Vision & Mission Statement

Embedded in our Maronite tradition and Antiochene Heritage, we, the people of God, who dedicated our hearts to make St. Ann Church a shining star of the east in the Capital Region, excelling in the spirit of community, spirituality and friendship, we welcome and embrace everyone who seeks spiritual refuge under the motherly care of Good Saint Ann. Embarked on a new journey of discipleship and missionary work, Saint Ann Maronite Catholic Church will continue in the same spirit it has embodied in its new location (Watervliet) as it has in its prior location (Troy). It is a new chapter in our parish life we have written with honor and praise. Honor for what our hands achieved and thanksgiving for a shower of blessings and graces from the Lord. This pastoral mission has been a gift and a new calling from God to our community.  The foundation of the Church of Saint Ann has been built by the sacrifices, commitments and unwavering faith of all those who have come before us, dedicating their lives, time, treasure and gifts to Saint Ann.  The structure has been strengthened by God’s many blessings.  The “keeping of our House of God” has been an ongoing endeavor that every generation has supported with determination, great love and deep faith.

With the relocation of our parish church, from one spiritual home (Troy) to another (Watervliet), our parish community has been called to a new mission and new goals. Having completed the work necessary to fully occupy the new spiritual house of St. Ann, this edifice and its functions is dedicated to God as:  A house of God for worship and a place of refuge for those in need spiritually;  A house where all can gather for prayer and the sacraments, for Christian formation and to establish relationships of friendship and brotherhood and where children, youths, families and the aged can grow in that spirit of community that Christ taught us and that the world needs so badly.  A place to grow in the knowledge and love of Christ as individuals and as a parish community and to encounter Him in the Eucharist, in listening to His word, in prayer and in charity.  A place to get to know God better, to worship Him together and to learn how to take the message of His love to the neighborhood and the world.

May this church, now dedicated to Saint Ann, always be a source of grace and strength so that the families of this community may grow in holiness and charity. May the divine sacrifices and worship offered here, through the intercession of St. Ann lead us to the Life and Truth of Christ, so that we may always walk in His Way that leads to Eternal Life.

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2014 Parish Theme

A message from the Pastor Date: Sunday, November 02, 2013 Prot. No. 2013/321

Sharing the Vision of Christ “With what shall I come before the Lord […]? (This is) what the Lord requires of you: Only to do justice and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6: 6, 8)

Dear Parishioners and Friends of Saint Ann, Our parish theme for this upcoming year is, “Sharing the Vision of Christ.” At first glance it seems a simple activity. We want to make Christ known, we want to make him visible in a world that often ignores or denies his very existence. Our first approach is that we tell others about Christ, what he did, where he lived, about his miracles and preaching, about his compassion for the poor, the sick, the dying. We give a sketch of the one we follow, a portrait of the one we believe in. But we ask is that the vision that Christ would have us share with others? If we take a closer look, we find that Jesus had a much larger view than simply focusing on his mission. The shared vision of Christ was a vision he shared with his Father in heaven. His was a world vision, an all encompassing vision, one that reached out beyond the boundaries of his own land to all peoples and communities. When he spoke he shared the father’s vision that “all may be one”, that all may live in peace and harmony, all might become his adopted sons and daughters. All that Christ said and did was to bring all of us to his heavenly father. Our mission in a sense is a simple one. Our focus is to talk about love by being loving, to talk about compassion by being compassionate, and to talk about forgiveness by being forgiving of ourselves and others. Micah sums it up beautifully: We are to do “only what is right, to love goodness and to walk humbly with our God.” If we do this, day in and day out, the vision of Christ will become blazingly clear! Let us share that vision and we will not only know about Christ, we will become Christ for others! May God, through the intercession of Good Saint Ann, continue to bless you, your families and our community! Yours in Christ, Rev. Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M., Pastor, Saint Ann Catholic Church

Parish Theme Saint Ann’s designates a Parish Theme each year and this becomes the focus for our liturgical celebrations, and various Parish activities. This Parish Theme is a means of bringing the readings home into our lives - trying to see the connection to Jesus in our daily life. This time of Reflection afford people an opportunity to stop their normal routine, for a couple of hours and "Take time for God."

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Listing of Active Registered Parishioners Maronites who do not reside with a convenient distance to a local Maronite Church are permitted to attend other Catholic Churches, but, nevertheless, they retain their membership in the Maronite Church.

This is the list of registered and active parishioners. We encourage every family and household to keep their information updated in the parish records.

1. ABDALLAH, Tony & Eva 40. KARAM-AUGUST, Jeanette 2. AKIKI, Shekrallah-Gregory & Carole 41. KARAME, George & Rosie 3. BAGLEY, Ronald 42. KARRAT, Fred & Elizabeth 4. BAKER, Michael & Nancy 43. KARRAT, John & Lora 5. BAKHOS, Charles & Leila 44. K-MOUAWAD, Jamileh 6. BASLE, Frank 45. KORKEMAZ, Nabih 7. BASLE, Michael 46. LALLI, Carolyn 8. BOUDIWAN, Elias & Georgette 47. MACARI, Elinor 9. BOUTROS, Michel & Kathy 48. MARRON, Thomas & Cheryl 10. BRENENSTUHL, Joan 49. MAWAD, Della 11. CARROLL, Marylou 50. MATAR, Jean 12. COONEY, Nancy 51. MOONEY, Jay & Rolla 13. DEEB, Ellen 52. NAHAL, Albert & Pauline 14. DEEP, John & Marian 53. NAHAL, Henry & Denise 15. DOMAREW, Chris & Rachel 54. NAHAL, Henry-James & Megan 16. EID, Allam & Mona 55. NAMMOUR, Naim & Janette 17. ETOLL, Kay 56. NESHEWAIT, Adi & Tala 18. FARINA, Edith 57. NESHEWAIT, Amjad & Tala 19. FRANGIE, Pascal 58. NICHOLAS, David &Yola 20. FRANGIE, Paul 59. NICHOLAS, Samia 21. FRANGIE, Sayed 60. PATNODE, Albert & Denise 22. FRANGIE, Wadad 61. PATNODE, Rosemary 23. FRANGIEH, Wadih & Rita 62. PATNODE-DENNIN, MaryBeth 24. FURFARO, Marrian 63. PETERS, Richard & Sherri 25. GOLDEN, Gerard 64. RAHAL, Robert & Rindala 26. GRADY, Ann-Marie 65. REZEY, Erika 27. HAJJNASR, Elias & Hala 66. REZEY, Marie Lynn 28. HAKIM, Evelyn 67. REZEY, Michael & Karen 29. HANNOUSH, Albert & Mirvatte 68. REZEY, William Paul II 30. HANNOUSH, David & Diana 69. RILEY, Sr., Thomas 31. HANNOUSH, Elias & Georgette 70. RYAN, Michael J. & Donna 32. HAXHILLARI, Riza & Eriklida 71. SHUFELT, Clayton & Carol 33. HEALY, John & Victoria 72. SKYPE, Georgiann 34. JABOUR, Joseph & Kathy 73. STOLAR, Robert 35. JOSEPH, Lena 74. THORNTON, Richard & Patti 36. KADDO, Francis 75. TRAA, James & Beverly 37. KADDO, John & Nazha 76. VUMBACO, Jay & Mary Ann 38. KADDO, Teresa 77. WARNER, Regina (Jean) 39. KARAM, Vivian 78. WASHINGTON, Patrick

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 16 of 44 Leadership of Saint Ann Leadership body of Saint Ann Catholic Church All planning, reports, and programs of the parish shall be built on the basic concept of making Christ known, loved, and served in every circumstance of parish life.

Pastor

The pastor, as "the proper shepherd" of the parish, is a priest appointed by the bishop to represent him to the local parish. Mindful that he is to exercise his authority as an extension of the bishop and in the example of Christ, the Good Shepherd, the pastor care for the souls of the faithful entrusted to him, promotes the spiritual welfare of the faithful by preaching and celebrating the sacraments, especially the Eucharist; and he leads and directs temporal growth and development of the parish. The pastor must fulfill his duties to teach, to sanctify and to govern the faithful with the cooperation of the deacons, religious and lay members of his parish. These duties include: - Preaching of the Word of God in its entirety; - Delivering catechetical instruction in the truths of the faith in accord with the magisterium of the Church; - Fostering charitable works and promoting social justice; - Encouraging prayer within the home and the parish through good devotions; - Evangelizing those who have left the practice of the faith or those who do not profess the true faith; and most importantly, nourishing the faithful through the sacraments, particularly through frequent reception of the holy Eucharist and penance. A special emphasis is placed on the pastor’s obligation to provide for the Catholic education of his people, particularly children and young adults, and ensuring that the most holy Eucharist is the center of parish life (CIC No. 528). In all, a pastor must be a priest "distinguished for his sound doctrine and integrity of morals, and endowed with a zeal for souls and other virtues" (CIC. 521.2). All of the faithful should pray for their parish priests each day that they may be good priests who reflect in their lives, Jesus, the true, eternal Priest. Reverend Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M. A religious order priest affiliated with the Congregation of Maronite Lebanese Missionaries

Professed his religious vows ...... on 11/17/1996 Ordained ...... on 09/11/2004 Appointed Administrator ...... on 06/01/2010 Appointed Pastor ...... on 06/01/2011 Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected] For confidential communication, you can reach your pastor on: [email protected] In case of EMERGENCY ONLY, please call on (518) 466-0868

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The pastor is helped by a permanent deacon & religious sister in fulfilling his obligations for the spiritual and temporal welfare of the parish. They render their services in pastoral ministry as co-workers with the pastor in common counsel and endeavor with him and also under his authority" (CIC No. 545.1) Sister Florence Joseph FLAHERTY, D.C. From the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul

Entered the convent ...... on 04/02/1958 Professed her religious vows ...... on 05/01/1963 Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Richard THORNTON, Sr. Candidate to the Permanent Diaconate of the Eparchy of St. Maron of Brooklyn

Enrolled in the Subdeacon Formation Program ...... in 2013 To be begin the Deacon Formation Program ...... in Oct 2014 Contact Cell: (518) 364-6645 | Email: [email protected]

Board of Trustees

Canon law specifies that the pastor is entrusted with both the spiritual and temporal affairs of a parish and the bishop entrusts to him the pastoral care of that community. But in doing that, he needs to operate oftentimes in the secular world, and the way we do that is through a corporate structure. Each Parish of the Eparchy is a five-member Corporation. Corporate law requires each parish to have two lay trustees. By virtue of their office, the bishop, vicar general and pastor are automatic members of the corporation. The bishop is the president of the corporation, and the vicar general is the vice president. In addition, two lay members of the parish – called trustees – are appointed by the Bishop to serve as treasurer and secretary of the board of Trustees. The trustees are chosen from among the congregation to be custodians of the church property. “The trustees are the members and officers of the civil corporation registered with the state. Their role fulfills civil statute requirements.” Lay trustees provide advice and oversight in the administration of the parish on behalf of their fellow parishioners. A parish trustee is an active and responsible member of a parish community who assumes responsibility as an advisor and counselor on behalf of the parish. A trustee is a member of the corporate board and serves as a

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 18 of 44 Leadership of Saint Ann trustworthy advisor to both the pastor and consultative bodies of the parish. The role of trustee is definitely NOT "honorary", but should be filled by serious, competent lay parishioners who clearly understand and accept their role in managing and safeguarding the temporal goods of the parish, and who also understand and embrace an authentically Catholic understanding of the Church and her structure. They should be familiar with pertinent civil and Church law, especially those areas dealing with the administration of temporal goods. Bishop Gregory John MANSOUR, S.T.L. Chorbishop Michael THOMAS, J.C.D. Father Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M. Georgette HANNOUSH Henry NAHAL

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Parish Pastoral Council (PPC)

The pastor carries out the offices of teaching, sanctifying and ruling with the cooperation of deacons and with the assistance of lay members of Christ's faithful. In accordance with church law, through prayerful discernment, using the process of collaboration and consensus, he sets goals, establishes policy, priorities, and objectives through prayerful discernment, using the process of collaboration and consensus that will assure us that we, as a parish, are true to our own parish vision and the missionary thrust of the Catholic Church. The Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) consists of active members of Saint Ann Parish, some elected and some appointed by the Pastor. The purpose of the council is to advise the Pastor on issues pertaining to the spiritual and social needs of Saint Ann Community. The decisions of the Council are not binding on the Priest or the Community, since the Priest is the decision maker on the local level, and the Eparchial Bishop has the final say in all matters. The Parish Pastoral Council is a representative body, not a body of representatives. It reflects the wisdom of the People of God, not constituencies within the parish. Council members should not be chosen because they belong to this or that ministry or parish organization. They should be chosen because they have the gifts necessary for the pastoral council. The council’s gift is practical wisdom. To be sure, council members are encouraged to educate themselves in the various fields of theology and pastoral care. They need not be experts, however, to join the council. Pastors turn to the council not for expert opinion, but for the wisdom of the community. The Council meets monthly to coordinate the activities of the Parish family, overseeing all events and ideas of the Parish Organizations. The Council is made up of the Pastor and his pastoral assistants; the 2 parish lay trustees, the 3 parishioners elected by the parish, 2 parishioners appointed by the pastor, the presidents of the Daughters of Saint Ann and Saint Maron Men’s Society and the representatives of standing organizations. When

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 19 of 44 Leadership of Saint Ann necessary, the chairperson of standing committees also attend the council meetings for the sake of sharing information about their events and activities.

Officers of the Parish Pastoral Council Rosemary PATNODE, President Richard PETERS, Vice-President Carol SHUFELT, Secretary

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected] Members of the Parish Pastoral Council Father Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M. Pastor and his Sr. Florence Joseph FLAHERTY assistants Richard THORNTON, Sr. Georgette HANNOUSH Trustees Henry NAHAL Michel BOUTROS Elected members Gerard GOLDEN Albert NAHAL Appointed Rosemary PATNODE members Richard PETERS Patti THORNTON (Daughters of St. Ann – President) Organizations Albert PATNODE (St. Maron Men’s Society – President) Representatives Carol SHUFELT (Junior MYO – Director)

Parish Finance Council (PFC)

The members of the Parish Finance Council are appointed by the pastor, and are responsible for accounting (the maintenance of financial records, budget approvals, oversight of all parish-related income and expenditures), banking, investments, and business management. The Parish Finance Council reviews the financial status of the Parish and the cost projections for all of the potential goals of the Parish. It advises the Pastor on all financial issues that pertain to the growth and stability of the Parish. The PFC meets monthly to promote the material needs of the Parish, and to prepare monthly and yearly reports of finances to submit to the Eparchy for approval. Parish Finance Council David HANNOUSH Freddy KARRAT Jay MOONEY

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 20 of 44 Organizations Organizations of Saint Ann Catholic Church

The Catholic laity includes all the members of the Church who do not belong to the clergy. Today's laypeople have a lot to offer the Church, both through their own efforts and by cooperating with the Church. Catholics outside of the clergy might feel a special call (that is, a call to ministry) to help spread the Word of God or to do good works in a special field. The Church now recognizes that members of the Catholic community have many special gifts. All over the world, Catholics have formed lay organizations that work under the authority of the Church to train and to foster ministry and mission work of the laity.

Daughters of Saint Ann (DSA)

The “Daughters of Saint Ann” (DSA) is an organization comprised of women over the age of 18 who are active members of the Parish. They meet regularly on the third Thursday of each month to pray, socialize and share ideas. The Daughters work diligently to raise funds for the various needs of the Parish and for the Poor. At the meetings, which are conducted by the President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer: - Various spiritual activities coinciding with the many religious holidays are scheduled - Entertainment as well as educational activities for the entire Parish are planned - Fundraisers which contribute to the building of the Church are organized. Officers of the Daughters of Saint Ann Patti THORNTON, President Karen REZEY, Vice-President Georgette HANNOUSH, Treasurer Rosemary PATNODE, Secretary

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Saint Maron Men’s Society (SMMS)

Saint Maron Men’s Society (SMMS) is a lay catholic organization that provides an atmosphere for fostering Christian fellowship and a sense of community among the men of the parish aimed at strengthening family life in our parish. They serve as a support group and provide a structure to assist with various parish religious celebrations, social events and they raise money to support the parish and needy.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 21 of 44 Organizations Officers of Saint Maron Men’s Society Albert PATNODE, President Jim TRAA, Vice-President Richard PETERS, Treasurer Richard THORNTON, Sr., Secretary

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Maronite Youth Organization (MYO)

The Maronite Youth Organization (MYO) is a social, service-oriented, and spiritual organization. Open to those 13 years or older or in grades 7-12, the MYO is organized to: - Build a close relationship between its members and the parishioners - Strengthen young adults with respect to their Catholic faith, and the Maronite traditions in their Church - Help the youth to live together in a community based on love and respect.

Officers of Maronite Youth Organization Carol SHUFELT, Director Patti THORNTON, Assistant

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

The Commemorative Parish Picture taken by Rosemary Patnode on Saturday, May 18, 2013, for the occasion of the Consecration & Dedication of St. Ann Church in Watervliet

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 22 of 44 Standing Committees Standing Committees of St. Ann Catholic Church It is common for Parish Pastoral Council to appoint committees to help accomplish the council’s work of study and reflection. The aim of these committees is to enhance the main work of the council, the work of investigating and pondering an issue. Neither the council nor its committees, strictly speaking, implements the recommendations of the council. When the pastor accepts the council’s recommendations, he establishes committees to implement them. These are parish committees, not committees of the council. These standing Committees are charged with specific tasks and areas of responsibility which have been established under their jurisdiction. Parishioners participate in the mission of the parish in a significant way when they work as members of the parish committees. The committees are entrusted with the day-to-day implementation of parish plans and goals; develop plans and procedures to achieve the goals. All goals require cooperation and collaboration. Staff and committees do this by developing objectives/strategies, delegating tasks, assigning resources and measuring progress in their particular area of mission. They communicate to the Parish Pastoral Council regularly in minutes, reports, and through their liaison to the council.

Spiritual & Liturgical Committee

The Spiritual & Liturgical Committee has the responsibility for all matters relating to the Liturgy. The Committee assists the pastor in fulfilling his role as priest and leader of the worshiping community. The committee addresses in a particular way prayer and worship within culturally diverse communities. It provides leadership in liturgical formation and sacramental catechesis, especially by means of its seasonal decoration parish preparation and monthly or weekly publication in the bulletin. It assists the pastor in preparing for major liturgical feasts and celebrations and helps the parish in developing liturgical and para-liturgical programs for the enhancement of worship services. The Committee coordinates the zeal and the services of parishioners to the Church in the roles of sacristans, altar servers, choir, lectors, and ushers.

Sacristans: These are people who help the priest with preparation of the altar and the church for regular liturgies as well as special celebrations of the mass. Richard PETERS Michael REZEY

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 23 of 44 Standing Committees Altar Servers: This is an organization of boys starting from age 5 and up, who minister at the altar during weekly liturgy and at special celebrations. These young men are trained to serve during the liturgy and to help one another as well as the Pastor. They have a group activity that is planned at least once a year. Coordinator, Richard THORNTON, Sr. George M. BOUTROS Sarkis FRANGIEH Daniel D. HANNOUSH Elias A. HANNOUSH Gjon HAXHILLARI

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Choir: The choir is made up of men and women whose voices enhance the Divine Liturgy on Sunday and at special liturgical celebrations. As they lead the congregation in traditional hymns and songs of praise, they provide an atmosphere of prayer and spirituality. All are welcome to become members of the choir. Choir Director & Organist Richard THORNTON, Sr.

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Lectors: Lectors are trained to welcome the assembly before the Divine Liturgy and to make special announcements after the Liturgy, proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture during Mass, and to announce the intentions for the General Intercessions. Parishioners must have received the Sacrament of Confirmation, be in good standing with the Catholic Church and actively practicing their faith. Lectors Coordinator Karen REZEY

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Ushers: Volunteers from the Members of Saint Maron Men’s Society offer their services, on a rotating schedule, open the doors to welcome the community before liturgy and greet parishioners with a smile and a wish of welcome as they arrive for Mass. The ushers assist in seating parishioners for liturgy and take up the collection. They provide "good order" at worship as needed.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 24 of 44 Standing Committees This ministry is open to all parishioners 16 years and older, especially to the members of Saint Maron Men’s Society. Ushers Coordinator Gerard GOLDEN

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Christian Formation Committee

The “Christian Formation Committee” establishes and directs Maronite- based religious education programs for the parish, ranging from preschool through adults. Our Faith Formation program is based on "Faith of the Mountain," a series especially designed for Maronite children in the USA, teaches our children the Catholic faith and Catechism as expressed by our Maronite heritage. This committee also assists each individual in the parish community to attain that level of Christian maturity and commitment needed to live and exercise his vocation as a Christian.

Chairperson Father Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M.

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Religious Education Program: It is for all children from Pre-school up to and including grade 12. This commission prepares the yearly Maronite Christian Formation program for grades K-7, teaches the students, forms their Christian ideals and assists parents in the maturation of the faith of the children. It also prepares them to receive the sacrament of First Holy Communion. This program plans special prayer days and fun days for the children of the Parish. Directress Sister Florence-Joseph FLAHERTY, D.C.

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Maronite Awareness

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 25 of 44 Standing Committees The task of this group is to plan activities and strategies that facilitate the promotion of Maronite traditions, customs and practices at both the parish and community levels. Age groups of interest include children though adults. Coordinators

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Youth Ministry: It organizes and carries out programs which offer youth and young adults the opportunity to participate in the spiritual dimension of catechetics, community building, service, prayer, and retreat. Youth Ministers Carol SHUFELT Patti THORNTON

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Bible Study: The study of the Bible is absolutely necessary to the development of the Christian life. The purpose of the Bible Study is to present basic Bible principles, methods and guidelines. We will consider proper attitudes in study, Bible inspiration and a comparison of the Old and New Testament. It includes discussion of the authority and inspiration of Scripture, the importance of knowledge and understanding, the differences between the Old and New Testaments, the importance of following Divine authority in religion instead of human authority or man-made laws, and how to use the Bible help (such as translations, concordance, and cross-references). Coordinators Father Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M. Richard THORNTON, Sr.

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Family & Sanctity of Life Committee

The Mission of the “Family and Sanctity of Life Committee” promotes, develops awareness, educates, unites, and mobilizes parishioners and all people of good will in the parish to restore respect and legal protection for

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 26 of 44 Standing Committees every human life inspired by the Church's teaching on the sanctity of human life. The Purpose of this committee is to promote, within our parish, prayer, education, and action in the defense of all life. Not only does this committee provide resources to their parish on life issues, it also actively evangelizes their fellow parishioners on the life issues and support the pastor in making life issues visible at the parish level. Chairperson Richard THORNTON, Sr.

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Building & Maintenance Committee

This committee oversees the care and maintenance of all the Parish properties. This includes making plans for repairs and advising about additions, alterations and development of these properties. This committee also oversees the rental property of the church and takes care of its management.

Chairperson Henry NAHAL

Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Collections Counters Coordinator, Richard THORNTON, Sr. Rolla MOONEY Team 01 Thomas RILEY, Sr. Georgette HANNOUSH Team 02 Rosemary PATNODE Richard THORNTON, Sr. Team 03 Ronald BAGLEY Contact Phone: (518) 272-6073 | Email: [email protected]

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 27 of 44 Standing Committees Media Services

Weekly Editor: Carolyn LALLI Parish Assistants: Betty KARRAT Bulletin Mailings: Vivian KARAM Photographer Rosemary PATNODE Webmaster: Henry James NAHAL, Jr. Website Contributors: Carolyn LALLI, Rosemary PATNODE Facebook Administrator: Father Georges BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M. Page Contributors: Carolyn LALLI, Rosemary PATNODE Media Coordinator: Beverly TRAA Liaison

Administrative Services

Jeanette KARAM-AUGUST Parish Office Carolyn LALLI Volunteers Rosemary PATNODE Carol SHUFELT Lawyer & Henry NAHAL Legal Counsel Bookkeeper Marie SCHERMERHORN (her services are donated by Hannoush Jewelry) Altar Linens Vivian KARAM Sunday Sayed FRANGIE Coffee Hour Michael REZEY Church Michel & Kathy BOUTROS (Boutros Florist) Decoration Lebanese Michel BOUTROS Dance Troop Rosie KARAME

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 28 of 44 Parish Guidelines Parish Guidelines

Welcome Visitors No matter what your present status in the Catholic Church, no matter what your current family or marital situation, no matter what your past or present religious affiliation, no matter what your personal history, age, background, race or color — you are invited, welcomed, accepted, loved and respected at Saint Ann’s. We extend a warm welcome to our visitors and guests and hope that you will find a loving and faith-filled community here at St. Ann’s. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the Divine Liturgy today. We hope that you have felt God’s love in a new and refreshing way. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask one of the ushers who will guide you to the proper resource. Enjoy our bulletin? Email us at [email protected], to be added to our weekly email list. The bulletin will be delivered to your inbox on Thursdays. Parish Registration Those wishing to become members of our parish community may call the parish office at (518) 272-6073, Tuesday-Friday, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The completion and return of a form will constitute official enrollment in the parish and inclusion on our mailing list. Certificates of Baptism for all children of the family are to be included with the completed registration form. Those who are moving or changing their address or phone number are asked to notify us so that we may keep our registry current. Registration is necessary when you seek to have a child baptized, enter a child into a religious education program, arrange for a marriage, or need a letter to be a godparent for baptism or confirmation. Religious Education Registration Beginning in Pre-K and continuing through high school, Religious Education programs are designed to involve children in the life of the parish as they study Catholic doctrine, the Scriptures, and the beliefs and rituals of their faith. Since faith formation is an ongoing process with each year building upon the previous, students need to faithfully participate at each level. Newcomers to the parish, who wish to enroll their children, must first register in the parish. Contact the parish office. Baptism & Confirmation Arrangements Parents wishing to have their baby baptized must call the parish office to arrange the date of Baptism. Several weeks’ notice should be given. Baptisms take place on Sundays at 9:15 a.m. or after Sunday Mass at 11.15 a.m. A child should be baptized within a month of birth, if possible. Parents & Godparents should meet with the Pastor to schedule a date & arrange for proper parental preparation.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 29 of 44 Parish Guidelines Godparents must be baptized Catholics, who have been confirmed, and if married, are validly married in the Church and practicing their faith. Requirements for Godparent The Church requires notification in writing from one’s pastor that he/she is qualified to act as sponsor for baptism or confirmation. To be a sponsor, one must be a baptized Catholic, have received confirmation, and be practicing his/her faith. If married, he/she must have been validly married in the Church and accept the responsibility of sponsorship. One may call the parish office to obtain such a letter. Where a proxy is standing in, the true sponsor must put in writing that he accepts the role of sponsor. Mass Intentions You can request an announced or an unannounced Mass Intentions to be said for a living or deceased family member, friend or loved one by calling the parish office or sending an e-mail to schedule intentions. Your voluntary gifts of any amount are gratefully accepted. Mass reservations should be made in advance. Donating the Sanctuary Lamp As with Sunday mass intentions, one may make an offering towards the sanctuary lamp each week. The offering is a free will contribution. Please call the parish office to make arrangements. Offering Altar flowers An offering may be made in memory of a loved one or for some special intention toward the fresh flower arrangements placed by the parish each week. Also, Parishioners are welcomed to share fresh flowers anytime during the year. During the Christmas and Easter season, plants are used in place of flower arrangements. Envelopes are provided for these remembrances. Gift Bearers These volunteers bring up the Offertory Gifts. Anyone in the parish is welcome to sign up to participate. Families are encouraged to participate together. Lenten Retreat The entire parish is invited to participate in a spiritual preparation for Easter when they too renew their baptismal commitment to Christ. During Lent, we encourage the faithful to share in a Lenten Retreat or day of Recollection. Penance & Reconciliation Service In addition to the regular times offered for private confession (before and after liturgies or by appointment) communal celebrations of the sacrament of Penance & Reconciliation are held twice a year: in the Season of Glorious Birth

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 30 of 44 Parish Guidelines of our Lord (in preparation for Christmas) and in the Season of Great Lent (in preparation for Easter). Communion for the sick and homebound If you wish us to bring Communion to a seriously ill member of the family in the hospital or at home, or they are unable to come to Church and would like to receive communion at home, please call the parish office to arrange for Communion, Confession or the Anointing of the Sick with Holy oil. The seriously ill, those who are advanced in age or are going for a serious operation should be anointed. Because of the privacy laws, lists of patients are no longer available at hospitals or nursing homes; therefore, it is important that family members keep us informed whenever a visit and Holy Communion is desired by a loved one. The “Bulletin Chain of prayer for the sick and homebound” is updated every Wednesday; if you would like to add a name, please call the parish office no later than Wednesday. Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick & Prayers for healing At any time, when Anointing of the Sick is needed, a family member is asked to contact the parish office. Arrangements for pulpit announcements requesting Prayers for the sick may be made by contacting the parish office. Eucharistic Adoration The first Friday of each month, after 7:30am Mass, the Eucharist is exposed for adoration throughout the day until 5 p.m. To sign-up for a specific 1/2 hour of prayer, please add your name to the list on the bulletin board in back of Church. Parishioners keep a vigil with the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament once a month every 2nd Thursday of the month in the Church. The vigil begins at 7:00 pm and ends at 8:00pm. Rosary Recitation Every Sunday morning at 9:30 am, parishioners pray the rosary before mass. All are welcomed to attend to offer up prayers and petitions to the Blessed Mother. Volunteers are needed to lead the congregation in the rosary. Thanksgiving Prayers Intentions For the two Sundays preceding Thanksgiving weekend, following the homily, the ushers will pass out cards to the congregation. We ask that on that card, anonymously, you note what you are truly thankful for. These cards will then be collected. On the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend, the accumulated cards will be placed in a basket and brought to the altar as part of the transfer of gifts. The basket will be placed and remain on the altar during the Divine Liturgy in thanksgiving for the all the gifts given to us by God. Arrangements for Funeral Services Please contact the Pastor as soon as possible after the death of a loved one. He will visit the family if they are local, and assist with arrangements and

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 31 of 44 Parish Guidelines services. If the deceased is out of town, a mass will be offered by the Parish Family at St. Ann. Weekly Parish Bulletin Mailing Letter Since every parishioner is an important member of our parish and we know it is difficult for the sick or homebound to worship with us every week and to be aware of all our parish activities, St. Ann has made a commitment to send the Weekly Parish Bulletin to them. If email is not an option for them, the bulletin will be mailed to them in advance of the Sunday Mass. Similarly, if any parishioner wants the bulletin emailed to them, or mailed to them, please call the parish office. Volunteer Spiritual Retreat This event will offer opportunities for spiritual enrichment, personal reflection, and faith sharing for the volunteers of the parish.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 32 of 44 Adult Faith Formation Opportunities Adult Faith Formation Opportunities

Pre-baptismal Instruction Parents wishing to have their child baptized must call the parish office to arrange the date of Baptism in advance. In the case of a first child, Pre- Baptismal instruction is required. The purpose of the instruction is to be sure that the parents understand fully the commitment that is made and to be sure that they are properly motivated. Pre-Baptismal instruction can be scheduled by calling the parish office. Sacramental Instruction: First penance & First Holy Communion Parents who enroll their children in the First Penance or First Holy Communion (First Eucharist) programs are expected to attend two sessions for the adults so that they themselves will have a better understanding of the Sacraments and may assist in the preparation of their children for a meaningful celebration of these Sacraments. Marriage Preparation for the Sacrament of Matrimony Marriage preparation is an important process and should be started as soon as possible upon engagement. Weddings are not normally scheduled during Lent. Couples wishing to be married in the parish must make arrangements with the parish office at least 6-9 months in advance to reserve the date and to make a proper preparation for the celebration of the Sacrament. They should meet with the priest, who will celebrate their marriage, as soon as possible in order to fill out the pre-marital investigation form required. The Eparchial Common Marriage Policy requires that couples attend either an Engaged Encounter Weekend or a Pre-Cana. Also required are the following: a recent Baptismal certificate (dated no earlier than six months), First Communion and Confirmation certificates, and a certificate of completion of Pre-Cana or Engaged Encounter. At times, testimony of parents as to their free state may be required. Also, if you have a prior marriage and are in need of annulment, please feel free to call us. Contact the Parish Office for further information. Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) Have you ever considered becoming a Catholic? Or, are you already a Catholic, and wish to grow further in your faith? The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process that affords participants the opportunities for prayer, discussion of Catholic doctrines, and faith sharing. It can be of great benefit for the following people: Adults interested in becoming a Catholic Christian; “Cradle Catholics” wishing to grow in their own faith, and wishing to be a parish sponsor to serve as a spiritual friend/support for

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 33 of 44 Adult Faith Formation Opportunities RCIA Candidates; and young people in our parish, ages 7-17, wishing to become a Catholic. Unbaptized adults and those baptized in other Christian faiths wishing to be fully initiated into our Catholic faith may participate in the RCIA program. Baptized Catholics who wish to complete their full initiation as Catholics by receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation (or Eucharist and Confirmation, if they have never received either before), may also receive instruction enabling them to receive these Sacraments. Faithful attendance at the sessions is required to receive the sacraments. Those wishing to participate should call the parish office for details. Women’s Bible Study In early fall through late spring, a bible study group meets bi-weekly. Attending are a group of women (stay-at-home mothers) learning and trying to live the Gospel message. They are encouraged by God’s Word and the fellowship they have with each other. For information, please call the parish office. Virtus for Catechist and Parents Several years ago, the Diocese of Albany developed a training program “Protecting God's Children (PGC)™. Within that program, we are offered VIRTUS®, a 3-hour seminar on child abuse and identifying potential situations of child abuse. All of our catechists and other volunteers, who work with the children of the parish, are required to take this seminar. Everyone also must be fingerprinted and participate in a background check. The Diocese has now made available a modified (about 1 ½ hours) Virtus Seminar for Parents. All of our parents will be invited and encouraged to attend either one of the two sessions. Sister Florence-Joseph FLAHERTY, D.C., who is a certified trainer, will be organizing 2 seminars throughout the year. For information, please call for sister Florence in the parish office.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 34 of 44 Major Parish Fundraisers Social Events & Major Parish Fundraisers

Facility Scheduling All requests for space must be submitted on a Reservation Request Form. You may pick one up at the Parish Office, we can fax or email one to you.

Sunday Morning Coffee Hour After Sunday mass, parishioners are invited to come together in the Community room to enjoy coffee and refreshments while sharing a sense of fellowship and friendship, and all are encouraged to participate in this activity. Coffee hour can be sponsored by a group, a family or an individual. Sponsors of the coffee hour must provide coffee, sugar, cream, sweetener, a beverage for the children and something for everyone to share (cookies, bagels, coffee cake, Lebanese Zatar, fruit, etc.). Food does not have to be nor is it expected to be elaborate. Cups and plates and napkins are provided by the Parish. Anyone who does the Coffee Hour needs to be there to set up and clean up afterwards. There are always parishioners around to help, and to willingly give a hand, but each person must remain to take charge of their coffee hour. It is important that all remaining food is removed, and the garbage bags are sealed and put in the bins outside. Sponsors of the coffee hour are requested to identify themselves and sign-up at least a week in advance, in order to be acknowledged within the bulletin. Christmas Party & Play If anyone is interested in having their children participate, please call for the Youth Director in the parish office as soon as possible. We need to see what costumes fit and what we need to make. ALL children are invited to take part in the play!!! Parish Picnic In September, all parishioners and their friends are invited to participate in the Parish Picnic. Each participating member is asked to bring a salad, entrée or a dessert to share with those in attendance. After the luncheon, those present break off into small groups to play games and enjoy friendly conversation. Annual Lebanese Hafli One of the fun activities enjoyed by Middle-Eastern-Americans is a ''Hafli'' (pronounced Huff-lee) which is the Arabic word for party. A typical Hafli serves to celebrate Middle-Eastern culture by featuring Middle-Eastern music, dance and, of course, food.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 35 of 44 Major Parish Fundraisers You do not need to be from the Middle East to enjoy this event. You do need to buy your tickets early, though, as space is limited to 300. The Hafli is held at the Italian American Community Center on Washington Avenue Extension in Albany. The meal begins with a “mezza” of popular Lebanese dishes, including hummus, tabouli, kibbee and baba-ghannouj. The main course is prepared by the Mallozzi family, who run Treviso Restaurant. There will be plenty of entertainment and lots of raffles. It’s a night on the town – an opportunity to dress up without purchasing a wedding present. Wear your dancing shoes and be prepared to join the circle for the Dabke, listening to vibrant music. Please join us in celebrating our Lebanese Culture with an evening of Traditional Lebanese food, fun and entertainment. Outrageous October Raffle Every year, St. Ann’s holds a month long raffle in October. This raffle is particularly important because it is our second largest generator of income. Each family (or household) is asked to sell a total of 30 tickets. Tickets cost only $10.00 each. Kindly do your best in selling as many as you possibly can. Your effort is truly appreciated. The raffle is drawn each day of the month. The Winning ticket is returned to the raffle bucket, making it eligible to win again. That is a total of 31 chances to win. The drawings will take place after the October Sunday Masses for the whole week. Your participation in purchasing and selling tickets in this raffle is greatly appreciated. 50/50 Raffle For the past several years a 50/50 Raffle has been drawn at the every other Sunday after Mass during the Coffee hour. This fundraiser is sponsored by St. Maron Men’s Society and goes toward the building Fund. Annual Charity Golf Tournament The next Big Fund Raiser for our church is an Annual Charity Golf Tournament planned by the Saint Maron Men’s society for September for the benefits of the building fund. We all have friends who may want to golf, or be sponsors, or maybe just come to the dinner and be part of the effort. A simple phone call to your friends and family members may be the most helpful way to be involved. Maybe the company you work for would like to help by being a sponsor, at any level, or they may contribute a prize for the event. It only takes a simple request on your part. Memorial Messages & Business Ads for Bulletin St. Ann’s solicits sponsors for its bulletin. The Church’s publication aids the community in keeping the parishioners informed of events in our Parish. Our Parish Bulletin reaches out to about 100 households. We hope that, with your memorial messages or your business advertisements displayed prominently in our bulletin, we will in turn help you. For more details, please call the Parish Office or email.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 36 of 44 Parish Outreach To Others Parish Outreach To Others

Maronite Calendar Every year in December, a calendar is given as a gift to parishioners. The calendar is a spiritual aid which outlines the feasts, memorials, commemorations, and solemnities of the Maronite Liturgical Cycle that occur throughout the year and depicts Maronite Saints or Churches located all across America. It is generously sponsored by Wm. Leahy and Bocketti Funeral Home, Troy, NY. Eparchial Bishop’s Appeal & Assessment Recognizing that all of our gifts are from God, and that it is our responsibility to give back to Him a portion of our blessings, parishioners contribute for the Annual Bishop’s Appeal. Many depend on this “appeal”, especially our seminarians, retired priests, mission churches, and many other charitable causes. Michael-David HANNOUSH Scholarship In memory of their grandson, Michael-David, Elias & Georgette HANNOUSH have started a scholarship fund. This Scholarship is to be awarded annually to a worthy High School graduate who is an active member of the St. Ann Parish. They must meet the qualifications set forth by the Pastor and have plans to continue their education.

Mass for Graduates The parish of St. Ann recognizes the milestone and accomplishment of those students who graduated. May their continued journey be richly blessed and rewarded. A Special Mass & Blessing is made for their intentions on the 2nd Sunday of June. Please call the parish office to inform the parish in advance. Maronite Day at the Shrine of our Lady of the Martyrs, Auriesville, NY This day is coordinated with Saint Louis Gonzaga Parish in Utica, NY and other local Maronites parishes. Parish Liaison: Richard THORNTON, Sr. Services at St. Mary’s & Samaritan Hospitals A Latin Mass is celebrated weekly (Thursdays & Fridays at noon) for the employees, volunteers and the patients and their families at St. Mary’s Hospital

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 37 of 44 Parish Outreach To Others – St. Peters Partners (Troy). Following the Mass, Father Georges anoints the sick. In addition, Samaritan Hospital – St. Peters Partners (Troy) is served on these days in case of emergency for a priest. Father Georges serves as chaplain for both hospitals on Thursdays and Fridays. Order of Saint Charbel The Order provides financial support to Catholic seminarians of the Maronite Church in the United States. Our seminarians study at Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Seminary in Washington, D.C. The seminary celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011, and continues to play a vital role in the education of our priests for the 21st century. While we trust in Divine Providence to provide for our needs, we realize that the financial support for our seminarians comes from the generosity of our laity. We ask that you prayerfully consider supporting our seminarians by becoming a member of the Order of Saint Sharbel. The Order of Saint Sharbel was named for Sharbel Makhluf (1828-98), who was canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1977. Saint Sharbel was a priest of the Maronite Church in Lebanon who, following the example of Saint Maron for whom the Church is named, lived as a hermit from 1875 until his death. His life of holiness and dedication to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ make him an outstanding role model for priests. For more information, please visit: http://www.orderstsharbel.org and the seminary website: www.maroniteseminary.org. National Apostolate of Maronites (NAM) Formed in 1964 to help unify the Maronites across the United States, NAM is the official lay apostolate of the Maronite Church of the USA. NAM is a link or a "bridge" uniting all Maronites across the USA. NAM helps to preserve the beautiful and rich traditions of the Antiochene Syriac Maronite Church handed on to us by St. Maron and his descendants. Through its many programs of service to the Maronite Church, the apostolate helps nurture interest in our spiritual, cultural and ethnic roots. For many, NAM's most important events are its national and regional conventions, where the Maronite Faithful are gathered along with our bishops and clergy for spiritual renewal, educational growth and social and ethnic fellowship. For more information, please visit: http://namnews.org. Nam Representatives: Richard & Patti THORNTON

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 38 of 44 2014 Parish Calendar Saint Ann’s Events & Activities 2014

Parish events & activities are subject to change. Please see weekly parish bulletin for updates. For further additions to the Parish Calendar please contact the Parish Offices so we can keep the Parish Calendar up to date.

January Su 09, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Su 09, Parish Mailing to All Parishioners of “the 2013 Contribution Statement” Spiritual & Pastoral Su 16, (10AM) World Day of Prayer for the sick Su 5, (10AM) Feast of the Glorious Epiphany / Sunday of the Righteous & Just: (Holy Day of Obligation): blessing of Healing Mass and Anointing of the water Sick Mass Su 05, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Th 20, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Mo 06, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Su 23, Sunday of the Faithful Departed We 8, Parish Pastoral Council Su 23, Junior MYO Su 12, New Year… New You Su 23, Christian Formation Committee Su 12, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Su 23, Spiritual & Liturgical Committee Th 16, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Tu 25, Parish Finance Council (Approval of Su 19, 2013 Financial Report) Su 26, Spiritual & Liturgical Committee Su 26, Junior MYO Fundraiser & Social Events Su 02, Feast of Saint Maron Luncheon & Fundraiser & Social Events Massabki Award Celebration Th 30, Movie Club (7p.m.) Su 09, Coffee Hour in honor of St. Maron Men’s Society (sponsored by DSA) Su 26, (11.30am) Kings’ & Queens’ Ball Mo 10, Support Group for Roman Catholic Clergy of the Diocese of Albany hosted Outreach activities by the parish Mo 13, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Th 27, Movie Club (7p.m.) Catholic Diocese of Albany Mo 13 – Fr 17 Annual Clergy Retreat of the Outreach activities Eparchy of St. Maron of Brooklyn Mo 10, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany February March Spiritual & Pastoral Su 02, (10AM) Feast of St. Maron Ceremony Spiritual & Pastoral Su 02, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Sa 01, Annual Financial Report – due date Mo 03, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Su 02, Cana Sunday Tu 04, Parish Finance Council (2014 Budget) Su 02, “Altar Servers” – Training Update (All We 05, Parish Pastoral Council Present Servers Must Attend this Session Su 09, (10AM) Sunday of the Priest / Mass of St. in Church) Maron Men’s Society Su 02, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Su 09, (11.30 am) Parish Town Hall Meeting Mo 03, (6:30pm) Ash Monday: Mass (2015 Parish Budget) w/distribution of Ashes in Church

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 39 of 44 2014 Parish Calendar Mo 06, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Mo 14, (6:30pm), Reconciliation Service for We 05, Parish Pastoral Council Easter in Church & Evening prayer Fr 07, (5:30pm) Way of the Cross Tu 15, (6:30pm) Evening prayer Su 09, First Communion Parent Meeting We 16, (6:30pm) Evening prayer Su 09, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Th 17, (6:30pm) Holy Thursday Mass Fr 14, (5:30pm) Way of the Cross (8:30pm) Holy Hour (by DSA) Su 16, St. Patrick’s Party in the Parish Hall (9:30pm) Holy Hour (by SMMS) We 19, (6:30pm) Feast of St. Joseph Fr 17, (7.30am) Mass of pre-sanctified gifts Th 20, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting (3pm) Outdoor way of the Cross Fr 21, (5:30pm) Way of the Cross (6:30pm) Great Friday Service Su 23, Su 20, (Midnight & 10am) Easter Th 27, Lenten Parish Retreat Su 27, Divine Mercy & New Sunday Fr 28, (5:30pm) Way of the Cross & Lenten Su 27, Junior MYO Parish Retreat Su 27, Christian Formation Committee Sa 29, Lenten Parish Retreat Su 30, Lenten Parish Retreat Fundraiser & Social Events Su 30, Junior MYO Tu 15, Movie Club (7p.m.) Fr 17, (4pm) Meatless Meal Fundraiser & Social Events Su 27, Easter Parish Party (sponsored by SMMS) Su 09, Parish Mailing to All Parishioners of “the Su 27, First Communion Children & Parents 2014 Eparchial Bishop’s Appeal & Meeting Assessment Letter Su 16, Corned Beef & Cabbage Luncheon St. Outreach activities Patrick Dinner Mo 14, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Th 27, Movie Club (7p.m.) Catholic Diocese of Albany

Outreach activities Mo 10, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman May Catholic Diocese of Albany Tu 11, Lenten Day of Reflection for Clergy of Spiritual & Pastoral the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany Sa 03, First Communion Children & Parents Rehearsal Su 04, (10am) First Holy Communion & May April Crowning Su 04, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Spiritual & Pastoral Mo 05, St. Ann Liturgical Choir We 02, Parish Pastoral Council We 07, Parish Pastoral Council Fr 04, (5:30pm) Way of the Cross Su 11, (10am) Mothers’ Day Mass Su 06, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Su 11, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Su 06, Spiritual & Liturgical Committee Th 15, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Mo 07, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Su 18, Anniversary of Church Consecration & Th 10, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Dedication Celebration Fr 11, (5:30pm) Way of the Cross Su 18, Junior MYO Sa 12 & Su 13, Christmas Parish Visit of the Su 25, Shut-ins and Anointing of the Sick Tu 27, Parish Finance Council (2013 Financial Su 13, (8 & 10am) Palm Sunday Report) Su 13, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 40 of 44 2014 Parish Calendar Th 29, (6:30pm) Ascension (Holy Day of Su 22, Parish Mailing to All Parishioners of obligation) “Outrageous October Raffle tickets” Ordination to Subdiaconate of Mr. Richard Th 26, Movie Club (7p.m.) W. THORNTON, Sr. Appreciation Day for Altar Servers: to be determined

Fundraiser & Social Events Outreach activities Su 04, Parish Mailing to All Parishioners of “the Mo 09, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Parish Bulletin Advertising” Catholic Diocese of Albany Su 11, Mothers’ Day Luncheon (sponsored by Mo 09 – Fr 13 Priests’ Retreat for Clergy of the SMMS) Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany Su 18, Anniversary of Church Consecration & Sa 14, Priests’ Ordination for the Diocese of Dedication Celebration Albany at the Cathedral (Albany, NY)

Outreach activities Mo 12, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman July Catholic Diocese of Albany Th 22, Movie Club (7p.m.) Spiritual & Pastoral Sa 24, Deacons’ Ordination for the Diocese of Su 06, Albany at the Cathedral (Albany, NY) Su 06, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Su 25, Independence Day - Jordan Su 13, Mo 26, Memorial Day Su 13, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Mo 14, St. Ann Liturgical Choir June Th 17, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Su 20, Spiritual & Pastoral Su 27, Junior MYO Su 01, Su 01, (11.30 am) Parish Town Hall Meeting: Fundraiser & Social Events 2013 Financial Report We 02 – Su 06, 51st Annual NAM Convention Su 01, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting in Pittsburgh, PA (nam2014pittsburgh.org) Su 01, Spiritual & Liturgical Committee Mo 02, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Outreach activities We 04, Parish Pastoral Council Mo 30 – Th 04, Clergy convocation of the Eparchy of St. Maron of Brooklyn at Su 08, Pentecost Sunday NAM Convention Su 08, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Mo 14, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Su 15, Catholic Diocese of Albany Th 19, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Fr 04, Independence Day Su 22, (10am) Fathers’ Day Mass / Corpus Christi Adoration We 25, Parish Pastoral Council August Su 29, Junior MYO Spiritual & Pastoral Su 29, Christian Formation Committee Su 03, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting

Fundraiser & Social Events Mo 04, St. Ann Liturgical Choir We 06, Parish Pastoral Council Sa 07&08, Lebanese Food Festival Su 10, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Su 22, Fathers’ Day Luncheon (sponsored by DSA) Su 17, (10am) Feast of the Assumption (Holy Day of obligation)

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 41 of 44 2014 Parish Calendar Th 21, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Mo 08, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Su 24, Catholic Diocese of Albany We 27, Parish Pastoral Council Sa 30 & Su 31, (6:30pm) Mass & Novena of St. October Ann Su 31, Junior MYO Spiritual & Pastoral Su 31, Christian Formation Committee We 01, Parish Pastoral Council Su 05, (10am) Pro-life Mass & Blessing of Children Fundraiser & Social Events Su 05, Nominations of new members for Parish Maronite Day at Auriesville Shrine: to be determined Pastoral Council Su 05, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Outreach activities Mo 06, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Mo 11, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Su 12, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Catholic Diocese of Albany Th 16, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Su 19, Christian Formation Committee Su 19, Spiritual & Liturgical Committee September Su 26, Junior MYO Spiritual & Pastoral Mo 01 – Su 07, (6:30pm) Mass & Novena of St. Fundraiser & Social Events Ann Th 23, Movie Club (7p.m.) Su 07, (10am) Parish Feast of St. Ann / “Jewel Outrageous October Raffle Drawing on of Saint Ann” Awards Celebration SUNDAYS Su 07, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Su 07, Spiritual & Liturgical Committee Outreach activities Mo 08, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Mo 13, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Tu 09, Parish Finance Council: (Approval of Catholic Diocese of Albany 2015 Parish Budget) Su 14, (10am) Mass of Daughters of St. Ann / Exaltation of the Cross November Su 14, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee Spiritual & Pastoral Sa 14, 2015 Parish Budget – due date Sa 01, (7:30am) All Saints Day Mass (Holy Day Th 18, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting of obligation) Su 21, (10am) Religious Education Mass Su 02, (10:00am) All Souls Remembrance Day u 28, Junior MYO Mass / New Liturgical Cycle Su 02, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting Fundraiser & Social Events Mo 03, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Sa 06, Annual Charity Tournament (sponsored We 05, Parish Pastoral Council by SMMS) Su 09, Mass for Hafli Donors Su 07, Parish Picnic & Election of New Officers Su 09, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee for Parish Organizations Su 16, (11.30 am) Parish Town Hall Meeting: Su 14, Coffee hour in honor of the Daughters of 2015 Parish Budget St. Ann (sponsored by SMMS) Th 20, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Th 25, Movie Club (7p.m.) Su 23,

Outreach activities Su 30, Thanksgiving Mass Su 30, Junior MYO Mo 01, Labor Day

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 42 of 44 2014 Parish Calendar Su 21, (10am) Mass & Christmas Novena Fundraiser & Social Events Mo 22 – Tu 23 (6:30pm) Christmas Novena Su 02, (10am) Election of new members for We 24, (5pm) Christmas Mass Parish Pastoral Council 2015 Th 25, (Midnight & 10am) Christmas Mass th Sa 08, (7pm) 14 Annual Lebanese Hafli Su 28, Junior MYO Th 20, Movie Club (7p.m.) Su 30, Parish Mailing to All Businesses of “the Fundraiser & Social Events Parish Bulletin Advertising” Su 07, Anniversary of Parish Church Relocation Su 30, St. Barbara Celebration Celebration Su 07, “Extraordinary Friend of Saint Ann Outreach activities Recognition” Celebration Mo 10, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Th 11, Movie Club (7p.m.) Catholic Diocese of Albany Su 14, Christmas Parish Party & Play Tu 11, Veteran’s Day Sa 22, Independence Day – Lebanon Outreach activities Th 27, Thanksgiving Day Mo 08, Support Group for Clergy of the Roman Fr 28, Independence Day – Albania Catholic Diocese of Albany

December Miscellaneous

Spiritual & Pastoral Spiritual & Pastoral Mo 01, (5pm) Church Christmas Decoration Bible Study (First Thursday) / December – May Mo 01, St. Ann Liturgical Choir Holy Hour We 03, Parish Pastoral Council Hosting the Icon of St. Ann Su 07, (10am) Anniversary of Church Relocation Prayer of the Rosary: Every Sunday at 9:30am / Feast of the Immaculate Conception Religious Education (2 times per month) (Holy Day of obligation) Volunteer Spiritual Retreat: to be determined at a later Su 07, St. Maron Men’s Society Meeting day Su 07, Parish Mailing to All Parishioners of “the NAM Awareness: to be announced 2015 Offertory Envelopes”; of “the 2015 Maronite Calendars”; and of “the Christmas Cards” Fundraiser & Social Events Su 14, Family & Sanctity of Life Committee 50/50 Raffle (sponsored by SMMS) Mo 15 – Sa 20 (6:30pm) Christmas Novena Food & Bake Sale (sponsored by DSA) Mo 15, Reconciliation Service for Christmas in Garage Sale (sponsored by DSA) Church after Novena Night at Races (sponsored by SMMS) Th 18, Daughters of St. Ann Meeting Sa 20 & Su 21, Christmas Parish Visit of the Shut-ins and Anointing of the Sick

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 43 of 44 Contact Information Contact Information

Saint Ann Catholic Church • Maronite Rite A Catholic Parish of the Antiochene Syriac Maronite Church

Jurisdiction: Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn (http://stmaron.org/)

Eparchial Bishop: Most Reverend Gregory John MANSOUR, S.T.L. Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn – The Chancery 109 Remsen Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Tel: (718) 237-9913; Fax: (718) 243-0444

Pastor: Reverend George BOUCHAAYA, M.L.M. A religious order priest affiliated with the Congregation of Maronite Lebanese Missionaries

Address Church, Office & Rectory: 1919 3RD Avenue, Watervliet, NY 12189-2110 Phone: (518) 272-6073; For Emergency ONLY, call Father George at (518) 466-0868 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.stann1905.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/St-Ann-Catholic-Church/317821088244238

Mass Schedule Sundays: 10:00 a.m. Tuesdays – Saturdays: 7:30 a.m. Holy Days of Obligation: 6:30 p.m.

Liturgical Services Sacrament of Penance Confession can be heard before and after Liturgies or by appointment. Rosary Sundays: 9:30 a.m. Eucharistic Adoration Fridays: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Office Hours Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Mondays: office is closed. | Saturdays: by appointment.

Handicap Accessible.

Understanding your parish Booklet Page 44 of 44