MINISTRY SCHEDULE FOR ASH WEDNESDAY St. Francis—Feb. 18th—6:00PM: Lector—Larry O’Reilly; Servers—Declan & Daegan Giannone; Rosary—Loretta Guiton

MINISTRY SCHEDULE FOR NEXT WEEKEND St. Francis—Feb. 21st—4:30PM: Lector—Thomas O’Reilly; Servers—Declan & Daegan Giannone; Rosary—Beverly or Florian Pasteka St. Francis—Feb. 22nd—8:00AM: Lector—Rosanne Williams; Servers—Thomas Williams; Rosary—Bob Curley St. Augustine—Feb. 22nd—10:30AM: Lector—Barbara Pichette; Servers—Emma, Hallie & Linsey Milligan; Rosary—Ann Zalepa or a volunteer If at any time you see that a volunteer is needed for any ministry, please feel free to step forward and volunteer your services.

DECEASED Please pray for the deceased, especially Mary Lorraine (Fitzgerald) Andrew, formerly of Friendsville. May she rest in peace. Amen.

SANCTUARY LIGHTS, ADORATION VIGIL CANDLES & DEVOTIONAL CANDLE DONATIONS

A Devotional Candle at St. Francis b u r n s for a Special Intention requested by Joe Purr. A Devotional Candle at St. Francis b u r n s for healing for all the sick and special intentions.

A Devotional Candle at St. Francis b u r n s in Memory of Mae Poch requested by Leo & Loretta Guiton. The Sanctuary Light at St. Francis b u r n s in Memory of Barbara Kotch requested by Chuck & Sandy Kotch. The Sanctuary Light at St. Augustine b u r n s in honor of the Families of St. Brigid Parish requested by Mike & Monica Redding. A Devotional Candle at St. Augustine burns for the return to health of all the sick in our Parish Community requested by St. Brigid Altar & Rosary Society.

CHURCH CLEANING St. Francis cleaners for the month of February—Laura Legg.

St. Augustine cleaners Feb. 15 to 21—Volunteers needed; Feb. 22 to 28—The Chen Family.

PRAYER LIST Lord, hear our prayers for the sick of our Parish and Community listed below and for those who are not listed and in need of our prayers. Katelyn Andre, Michael Haefner, Bill Jones, Jr., David Zevan, Rita Powers, Debbie Jones, Kyle Stoddard, Mary Lou Gregg, Sophie Padula, Madigan Gow, John Flynn, Donald & Terry Baum, Mary Bakay, Donnie Butler, Tommy Williams, Stephen Ambrose, Mary Riley, Toni Colardino, Jennifer Lynn, Tom Wenman, Linda Hollenback, Tyler Fletcher, Joshua Welch, S.C.F., Anna Mae Coleman, Kathy Holt, Richard Hutchinson, Mary K. Long, Joshua Kaminski, B.F., Aleisya Abrams, Agnes Neville, Steve Hundiak, Mary Lou Fahs, Butch Rosencranz, Ruth King, Ken Roon, Brooke Arnold, Hallie Brooks, Sarah Murnigahan, William Chaney, Mary Cadden, Nancy Lynch, Daniel Gavin, Sue Anderson, June Riley, John Bauer, Adam Kelly, Shawn Burns, Quinn Seymour, John & Alberta Zielinski, Virginia Raftis, Fred

Russell, Dorothy Catlin, Marie Donahue, Nancy, Matt & Emily, Bob Murphy, Robyn Lawson, Vicky Nelson, Rita Flynn, Elton Carr, Peter Purtell, Kaleena Dughi, Molly Getter, Sam Miner, Debbie Drewry, Bill Sheredy, Bub Davis, Rusty Carmen, Ronalee Eckert, Chelsea Judson, Doug Wheaton, John Paul Jones, Valerie Newhart, Amanda Branning, Deborah Gregory, J.K., Andy Mooney, Dave Hibbard, Jeff Barnard, Mary Elizabeth Healy, T. S., Gloria Craige, Delmar O’Rourke, Walt Frystak, Lori & Michelle Parsons, Steve Burrell, Barbara Borsavage, George Kotch, Jr., Leo Guiton, Whitney Neville, Gregg Loboda, Tammy Fleming, Mark Kovach, Joe Vrabel, Jerry Conboy, Brendan Kelly, Greg Lasgowka, Shirley Bowser, Mary Louise Keenan, Tiffani Allen, Theresa Noldy, Paul Kerber, Linda Bush, Megan Priestner, Dick Lewis, Anna, Ken Guiton, Debbie Newhart, and James O’Mara. May they regain full health. Please pray for the needs in our Parish Intention Books. Our Lady of Good Health, pray for us. Amen.

ARMED FORCES LIST Please pray for those in our Armed Forces, especially those from our Parish & Community, Christopher Reichlen, Patrick Allen, Shane Kalpokas, Ryan Gormley, Mike Griffith, Reed Shave, Matthew Kramer, Dustin Ryder, Bobby Brostoski, Ricky Trowbridge, Ryan Neville, Anthony Flynn, A. Jay Tewksbury, Jennifer Buttacavoli, Andrew Muscarelle, Adam Barziloski, Lukas Crisman, John Matousek, David Teetsel, Lisa Phillips, Carrie Krouse, Ryan Newberry, Wayne M. Bennett, Duane Thomas, Joseph Elliott, Michael and Sean Plitt, Mark W. Gregg, Bradley J. Bryant, Kevin Lewandoski, and all who serve with them. May they all be protected and safe from harm and return home soon to their families and friends. Amen. Please call the rectory when the person you put on the Prayer List or Armed Forces List can be removed. If you know of anyone on the list who has passed away, please let us know so that their name can be removed from the list.

The Roman Catholic Community of ST. BRIGID PARISH,

(St. Francis Xavier Church, Friendsville, Pa.

St. Augustine Church, Silver Lake, Pa.)

(St. Brigid’s Cross)

P.O. Box 75 • 17 Cottage Street • Friendsville, Pa. 18818 www.ourparishcommunity.com • Phone (570) 553-2288

E-mail: sfxc@epix.net Father Casimir (Cas) Stanis, Pastor

Kenneth S. Brennan, Deacon

PARISH MISSION STATEMENT “We the faithful of the Roman Catholic Community of St. Brigid Parish, (St. Francis Xavier and St. Augustine Churches), in union with our Holy Father, the Pope, and the Diocese of Scranton, are called through baptism to share in the mission which Jesus Christ has entrusted to the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. We in this Faith Community, under the leadership of our Bishop and our Pastor, cooperate to proclaim the Gospel in accordance with the teaching of the Church, to celebrate the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, for the salvation of all, and to witness by grace to the Kingdom of God so as to promote a culture of life, justice and peace. We especially endeavor to foster spiritual growth and evangelization in our present and future generations by drawing parish members back to active participation.”

WEEKLY STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Thank you for your kindness & generosity in our weekly Parish Collections. St. Francis (4:30PM) - $ 568.00; St. Francis (8:00AM) - $ 714.00; St. Augustine (10:30AM) - $ 1,111.00.

LIFELINES

“Catholics hold that marriage is a vocation, a “call.” It is a way of life that offers continual opportunities to be in loving service to the other.” —Life Matters: Marriage, the Sanctuary of Life, 2012 USCCB Respect Life Program

HOLY COMMUNION UNDER ONE ELEMENT AND NO SHAKING HANDS

Because of the winter cold & flu season, we are suspending shaking hands at the sign of peace and following Mass. Please acknowledge those around you with a wave or nod of the head. The Precious Blood will not be offered until further notice.

MASS SCHEDULE Sat. Feb. 14 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: 6TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

1st Anniv. HELEN TAYLOR by Leo & Loretta Guiton Sun. Feb. 15 8:00AM St. Francis Church - 6TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

BARBARA KOTCH by Chuck & Sandy Kotch 10:30AM St. Augustine Church - INTENTIONS OF OUR PARISHIONERS Mon. Feb. 16 12:00NN St. Francis Church - MARY BAHAN by the Estate Tue. Feb. 17 8:30AM St. Augustine Church - JEAN REBELLO by Bobby McCabe Wed. Feb. 18 7:30AM St. Augustine Church - ASH WEDNESDAY (Distribution of Ashes)

Thur. Feb. 19 8:30AM St. Francis Church - BETTY FRERES by Rosalynd Perlick-Spencer Fri. Feb. 20 12:00NN St. Francis Church - (Mass & Stations of the Cross)

WANDA PURR & DECEASED FAMILY AND FRIENDS by Joe Purr

Sat. Feb. 21 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT RALPH WARNER by Mary Warner & Family

Sun. Feb. 22 8:00AM St. Francis Church - FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT MARY ELLEN GRIFFIN BY Donald J. Griffin

10:30AM St. Augustine Church - INTENTIONS OF OUR PARISHIONERS

6:00PM St. Francis Church - (Mass & Distribution of Ashes) BOBBY PURTELL by Larry & Debbie Purtell

6:00PM St. Augustine Church - (Stations of the Cross)

PARISH LOTTERY CALENDARS Parish Lottery Calendars are available in the back of the Churches. Calendars are $ 20.00 each. They run from April 1st thru December 31st, 2015. Each family in our Parish is asked to take at least (5) calendars to sell. There are both packages of (5) calendars and loose (single) calendars available. (Please do not break up the packages.) Please help to make this very important fund raiser a success again this year! You are asked to please sign the calendars out on the sheet provided. With only a month and a half until April 1st, there are 160 calendars left at St. Augustine and 160 left at St. Francis for a total of 320 Calendars remaining unsold. To date only 158 calendar returns have been made. Please remember—it is never too early to make your returns with stubs included!

COLLECTION FOR CARE & EDUCATION OF PRIESTS

Thank you to everyone for your generosity in last weekend’s collection for the Care & Education of Priests. Our collection total was $ 412.00.

NEW MINISTRY VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED New volunteers for the Ministries of Lector, Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Altar Server, and Rosary Leader are needed and welcomed. At St. Augustine we are most in need of Rosary Leaders (one person leads the entire Rosary almost every Sunday) and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (it would be helpful to have (3) more). At St. Francis we are in need of Lectors and Altar Serves for both Masses.

Both adults and kids who have received the Sacrament of Holy Communion can be Altar Servers. If you would like to volunteer, please speak with Fr. Cas or Deacon Ken.

ATTENTION: 2014 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS A number of financial statements were sent out with incorrect totals on them. Some of the last contributions made for 2014 were incorrectly entered as 2015, therefore they were not credited to the correct year. Please check the totals on the reports you received in the mail and make sure they agree with your records. If you think that they are incorrect, please all the Parish office this week. Our apologies for the mistake and any inconvenience this has caused you.

BLESSED CANDLES Blessed Candles are available in the back of Church. A small box is next to them for donations.

CHILDREN’S WORSHIP BULLETINS Children’s Worship Bulletin’s are available in the back of the Churches.

DIVINE MERCY DEVOTIONS Divine Mercy Devotions are held following Sunday Masses at St. Francis & St. Augustine. You are encouraged to stay for a few minutes after Mass for this wonderful devotion.

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST The Little Meadows Fire Company will hold an all you can eat breakfast NEXT Sunday, February 22nd, from 7AM to 11AM, at Whitetails Bar, Little Meadows. Price is $8.00 adult $4.00 children. Benefits the Little Meadows Fire Company. Breakfast includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, French toast, bacon, sausage gravy with biscuits, home fries, baked goods, and beverages. All are invited to attend and enjoy a delicious breakfast!

FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION VIA THE WEINBERG FOOD BANK This free food distribution for those in need is for RESIDENTS OF SUSQUE-HANNA COUNT ONLY. Any resident of Susquehanna County who needs food is welcome. Distribution will be held THIS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH, from 12Noon to 2:00PM, and 5-7PM at the Little Meadows United Methodist Church. This is for Susquehanna County residents, with need only, please.

MINISTRY SCHEDULE FOR ASH WEDNESDAY St. Francis—Feb. 18th—6:00PM: Lector—Larry O’Reilly; Servers—Declan & Daegan Giannone; Rosary—Loretta Guiton

MINISTRY SCHEDULE FOR NEXT WEEKEND St. Francis—Feb. 21st—4:30PM: Lector—Thomas O’Reilly; Servers—Declan & Daegan Giannone; Rosary—Beverly or Florian Pasteka St. Francis—Feb. 22nd—8:00AM: Lector—Rosanne Williams; Servers—Thomas Williams; Rosary—Bob Curley St. Augustine—Feb. 22nd—10:30AM: Lector—Barbara Pichette; Servers—Emma, Hallie & Linsey Milligan; Rosary—Ann Zalepa or a volunteer If at any time you see that a volunteer is needed for any ministry, please feel free to step forward and volunteer your services.

DECEASED Please pray for the deceased, especially Mary Lorraine (Fitzgerald) Andrew, formerly of Friendsville. May she rest in peace. Amen.

SANCTUARY LIGHTS, ADORATION VIGIL CANDLES & DEVOTIONAL CANDLE DONATIONS

A Devotional Candle at St. Francis b u r n s for a Special Intention requested by Joe Purr. A Devotional Candle at St. Francis b u r n s for healing for all the sick and special intentions.

A Devotional Candle at St. Francis b u r n s in Memory of Mae Poch requested by Leo & Loretta Guiton. The Sanctuary Light at St. Francis b u r n s in Memory of Barbara Kotch requested by Chuck & Sandy Kotch. The Sanctuary Light at St. Augustine b u r n s in honor of the Families of St. Brigid Parish requested by Mike & Monica Redding. A Devotional Candle at St. Augustine burns for the return to health of all the sick in our Parish Community requested by St. Brigid Altar & Rosary Society.

CHURCH CLEANING St. Francis cleaners for the month of February—Laura Legg.

St. Augustine cleaners Feb. 15 to 21—Volunteers needed; Feb. 22 to 28—The Chen Family.

PRAYER LIST Lord, hear our prayers for the sick of our Parish and Community listed below and for those who are not listed and in need of our prayers. Katelyn Andre, Michael Haefner, Bill Jones, Jr., David Zevan, Rita Powers, Debbie Jones, Kyle Stoddard, Mary Lou Gregg, Sophie Padula, Madigan Gow, John Flynn, Donald & Terry Baum, Mary Bakay, Donnie Butler, Tommy Williams, Stephen Ambrose, Mary Riley, Toni Colardino, Jennifer Lynn, Tom Wenman, Linda Hollenback, Tyler Fletcher, Joshua Welch, S.C.F., Anna Mae Coleman, Kathy Holt, Richard Hutchinson, Mary K. Long, Joshua Kaminski, B.F., Aleisya Abrams, Agnes Neville, Steve Hundiak, Mary Lou Fahs, Butch Rosencranz, Ruth King, Ken Roon, Brooke Arnold, Hallie Brooks, Sarah Murnigahan, William Chaney, Mary Cadden, Nancy Lynch, Daniel Gavin, Sue Anderson, June Riley, John Bauer, Adam Kelly, Shawn Burns, Quinn Seymour, John & Alberta Zielinski, Virginia Raftis, Fred

Russell, Dorothy Catlin, Marie Donahue, Nancy, Matt & Emily, Bob Murphy, Robyn Lawson, Vicky Nelson, Rita Flynn, Elton Carr, Peter Purtell, Kaleena Dughi, Molly Getter, Sam Miner, Debbie Drewry, Bill Sheredy, Bub Davis, Rusty Carmen, Ronalee Eckert, Chelsea Judson, Doug Wheaton, John Paul Jones, Valerie Newhart, Amanda Branning, Deborah Gregory, J.K., Andy Mooney, Dave Hibbard, Jeff Barnard, Mary Elizabeth Healy, T. S., Gloria Craige, Delmar O’Rourke, Walt Frystak, Lori & Michelle Parsons, Steve Burrell, Barbara Borsavage, George Kotch, Jr., Leo Guiton, Whitney Neville, Gregg Loboda, Tammy Fleming, Mark Kovach, Joe Vrabel, Jerry Conboy, Brendan Kelly, Greg Lasgowka, Shirley Bowser, Mary Louise Keenan, Tiffani Allen, Theresa Noldy, Paul Kerber, Linda Bush, Megan Priestner, Dick Lewis, Anna, Ken Guiton, Debbie Newhart, and James O’Mara. May they regain full health. Please pray for the needs in our Parish Intention Books. Our Lady of Good Health, pray for us. Amen.

ARMED FORCES LIST Please pray for those in our Armed Forces, especially those from our Parish & Community, Christopher Reichlen, Patrick Allen, Shane Kalpokas, Ryan Gormley, Mike Griffith, Reed Shave, Matthew Kramer, Dustin Ryder, Bobby Brostoski, Ricky Trowbridge, Ryan Neville, Anthony Flynn, A. Jay Tewksbury, Jennifer Buttacavoli, Andrew Muscarelle, Adam Barziloski, Lukas Crisman, John Matousek, David Teetsel, Lisa Phillips, Carrie Krouse, Ryan Newberry, Wayne M. Bennett, Duane Thomas, Joseph Elliott, Michael and Sean Plitt, Mark W. Gregg, Bradley J. Bryant, Kevin Lewandoski, and all who serve with them. May they all be protected and safe from harm and return home soon to their families and friends. Amen. Please call the rectory when the person you put on the Prayer List or Armed Forces List can be removed. If you know of anyone on the list who has passed away, please let us know so that their name can be removed from the list.

The Roman Catholic Community of ST. BRIGID PARISH,

(St. Francis Xavier Church, Friendsville, Pa.

St. Augustine Church, Silver Lake, Pa.)

(St. Brigid’s Cross)

P.O. Box 75 • 17 Cottage Street • Friendsville, Pa. 18818 www.ourparishcommunity.com • Phone (570) 553-2288

E-mail: sfxc@epix.net Father Casimir (Cas) Stanis, Pastor

Kenneth S. Brennan, Deacon

PARISH MISSION STATEMENT “We the faithful of the Roman Catholic Community of St. Brigid Parish, (St. Francis Xavier and St. Augustine Churches), in union with our Holy Father, the Pope, and the Diocese of Scranton, are called through baptism to share in the mission which Jesus Christ has entrusted to the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. We in this Faith Community, under the leadership of our Bishop and our Pastor, cooperate to proclaim the Gospel in accordance with the teaching of the Church, to celebrate the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, for the salvation of all, and to witness by grace to the Kingdom of God so as to promote a culture of life, justice and peace. We especially endeavor to foster spiritual growth and evangelization in our present and future generations by drawing parish members back to active participation.”

WEEKLY STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Thank you for your kindness & generosity in our weekly Parish Collections. St. Francis (4:30PM) - $ 568.00; St. Francis (8:00AM) - $ 714.00; St. Augustine (10:30AM) - $ 1,111.00.

LIFELINES

“Catholics hold that marriage is a vocation, a “call.” It is a way of life that offers continual opportunities to be in loving service to the other.” —Life Matters: Marriage, the Sanctuary of Life, 2012 USCCB Respect Life Program

HOLY COMMUNION UNDER ONE ELEMENT AND NO SHAKING HANDS

Because of the winter cold & flu season, we are suspending shaking hands at the sign of peace and following Mass. Please acknowledge those around you with a wave or nod of the head. The Precious Blood will not be offered until further notice.

MASS SCHEDULE Sat. Feb. 14 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: 6TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

1st Anniv. HELEN TAYLOR by Leo & Loretta Guiton Sun. Feb. 15 8:00AM St. Francis Church - 6TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

BARBARA KOTCH by Chuck & Sandy Kotch 10:30AM St. Augustine Church - INTENTIONS OF OUR PARISHIONERS Mon. Feb. 16 12:00NN St. Francis Church - MARY BAHAN by the Estate Tue. Feb. 17 8:30AM St. Augustine Church - JEAN REBELLO by Bobby McCabe Wed. Feb. 18 7:30AM St. Augustine Church - ASH WEDNESDAY (Distribution of Ashes)

Thur. Feb. 19 8:30AM St. Francis Church - BETTY FRERES by Rosalynd Perlick-Spencer Fri. Feb. 20 12:00NN St. Francis Church - (Mass & Stations of the Cross)

WANDA PURR & DECEASED FAMILY AND FRIENDS by Joe Purr

Sat. Feb. 21 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT RALPH WARNER by Mary Warner & Family

Sun. Feb. 22 8:00AM St. Francis Church - FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT MARY ELLEN GRIFFIN BY Donald J. Griffin

10:30AM St. Augustine Church - INTENTIONS OF OUR PARISHIONERS

6:00PM St. Francis Church - (Mass & Distribution of Ashes) BOBBY PURTELL by Larry & Debbie Purtell

6:00PM St. Augustine Church - (Stations of the Cross)

PARISH LOTTERY CALENDARS Parish Lottery Calendars are available in the back of the Churches. Calendars are $ 20.00 each. They run from April 1st thru December 31st, 2015. Each family in our Parish is asked to take at least (5) calendars to sell. There are both packages of (5) calendars and loose (single) calendars available. (Please do not break up the packages.) Please help to make this very important fund raiser a success again this year! You are asked to please sign the calendars out on the sheet provided. With only a month and a half until April 1st, there are 160 calendars left at St. Augustine and 160 left at St. Francis for a total of 320 Calendars remaining unsold. To date only 158 calendar returns have been made. Please remember—it is never too early to make your returns with stubs included!

COLLECTION FOR CARE & EDUCATION OF PRIESTS

Thank you to everyone for your generosity in last weekend’s collection for the Care & Education of Priests. Our collection total was $ 412.00.

NEW MINISTRY VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED New volunteers for the Ministries of Lector, Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Altar Server, and Rosary Leader are needed and welcomed. At St. Augustine we are most in need of Rosary Leaders (one person leads the entire Rosary almost every Sunday) and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (it would be helpful to have (3) more). At St. Francis we are in need of Lectors and Altar Serves for both Masses.

Both adults and kids who have received the Sacrament of Holy Communion can be Altar Servers. If you would like to volunteer, please speak with Fr. Cas or Deacon Ken.

ATTENTION: 2014 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS A number of financial statements were sent out with incorrect totals on them. Some of the last contributions made for 2014 were incorrectly entered as 2015, therefore they were not credited to the correct year. Please check the totals on the reports you received in the mail and make sure they agree with your records. If you think that they are incorrect, please all the Parish office this week. Our apologies for the mistake and any inconvenience this has caused you.

BLESSED CANDLES Blessed Candles are available in the back of Church. A small box is next to them for donations.

CHILDREN’S WORSHIP BULLETINS Children’s Worship Bulletin’s are available in the back of the Churches.

DIVINE MERCY DEVOTIONS Divine Mercy Devotions are held following Sunday Masses at St. Francis & St. Augustine. You are encouraged to stay for a few minutes after Mass for this wonderful devotion.

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST The Little Meadows Fire Company will hold an all you can eat breakfast NEXT Sunday, February 22nd, from 7AM to 11AM, at Whitetails Bar, Little Meadows. Price is $8.00 adult $4.00 children. Benefits the Little Meadows Fire Company. Breakfast includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, French toast, bacon, sausage gravy with biscuits, home fries, baked goods, and beverages. All are invited to attend and enjoy a delicious breakfast!

FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION VIA THE WEINBERG FOOD BANK This free food distribution for those in need is for RESIDENTS OF SUSQUE-HANNA COUNT ONLY. Any resident of Susquehanna County who needs food is welcome. Distribution will be held THIS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH, from 12Noon to 2:00PM, and 5-7PM at the Little Meadows United Methodist Church. This is for Susquehanna County residents, with need only, please.

ASH WEDNESDAY—FEBRUARY 18TH

The schedule for Mass and distribution of Ashes is as follows: 7:30AM—St. Augustine Church—Deacon Ken Brennan will distribute Ashes

6:00PM—St. Francis Xavier Church—Fr. Cas will say Mass and distribute Ashes Ash Wednesday is a day of universal fast and abstinence in the Church. On this day, ashes are blessed and imposed after the homily. These ashes are of branches of the olive tree, or, according to custom, of the palm tree or other trees, which have been blessed the previous year. Apart from Mass, a liturgy of the Word precedes the rite of blessing, concluding with general intercessions, the Lord’s Prayer, and a hymn. The ordinary minister of the blessing of ashes is a priest or deacon. Others (e.g., special ministers of communion) may assist with the imposition of ashes where there is a genuine need, especially for the sick and shut-ins. One of the following formulas is used: Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel. Or Remember, you are dust and unto dust you shall return.

2015 REGULATIONS FOR LENT All faithful of the Diocese of Scranton are reminded of Diocesan Statute No. 41, which addresses the penitential aspect of Lent: “The season of Lent is penitential in nature and during Lent penance should be not only internal and individual, but also external and social (Sacrosanctum Concilium, No. 5, 109). Pastors are obliged to avoid scheduling activities in the parishes which in any way could possibly detract from the external and social penance required by Lent.” During Lent the following fast and abstinence regulations are observed: · Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, April 3rd, are days of fast and abstinence. · Fridays during Lent are days of abstinence. · All Catholics who have reached their 14th birthday are to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and on all Fridays during Lent. · All Catholics over 18 years of age to the beginning of their 60th year are bound to the obligation of fasting. Those bound by this rule may take only one full meal and two smaller meals unless dispensed or excused.

LENTEN REMINDERS Lent is a time for sacrifice and for spiritual renewal as we reflect upon our baptism and the call given to each of us to walk as disciples of the Lord. We are provided with three personal challenges associated with our individual observance of Lent: · Almsgiving – generously giving to those in need · Fasting – practicing self-discipline and self-denial · Prayer – reading, hearing and reflecting on the Word of God Lent is also a penitential season. It is a time to seek forgiveness, to look inward, and to admit our shortcomings and failures. It is a time to regroup and to prepare. How can you spend your time during Lent? · By “giving up” things you hunger after, such as sweets or alcohol; or activities you desire, such as vacations, concerts or movies. · By “doing” things to help others, such as offering an extra donation to the poor or helping those in need by providing food or clothing. · By “adding” to our normal routine, such as going to daily Mass, praying the Stations of the Cross and going to confession.

SCHEDULE FOR STATIONS OF THE CROSS

Stations begin Friday, February 20th, following Noon Mass at St. Francis Church. Stations begin Friday, February 20th, at 6:00PM at St. Augustine Church.

Stations of the Cross will continue with the above schedule all Friday’s during Lent. There will be no Stations of the Cross on Tuesday morning at St.

ROSARY DURING LENT The Rosary will be held before all weekday Masses. Volunteers are encouraged to lead the Rosary. You don’t need to wait for Fr. Cas, as he may be hearing Confessions. If someone would like to lead the Rosary, please do so.

EASTER FLOWER ENVELOPES You are reminded that Easter Flower Donation Envelopes are in your envelope boxes. There is space on the back for memorials.

LENTEN READING MATERIALS In the back of our Churches are copies of the Lenten Edition of “The Word Among Us”, and “The Catholic Digest” as well as the “Little Black Books” for Lent. Please feel free to take a copy home with you and use them as part of your daily Lenten meditations.

COMBINED CHOIR PRACTICE FOR HOLY WEEK & EASTER The Combined Choir is practicing for Holy Week and Easter on Tuesday evenings at 6:30PM in St. Francis Church. Please consider joining the choir to help make our services even more beautiful.

OPERATION RICE BOWL—HUNGERING FOR THE JOURNEY Join our Parish Community—and more than 13,000 Catholic Communities across the United States—in a life-changing Lenten journey with CRS Rice Bowl. Rice Bowl Envelopes are in your envelope boxes and can be put in the collection at any time during Lent. The Rice Bowl Collection will be taken up on Holy Thursday. Remember, your Lenten sacrifices change lives. Lent runs from Ash Wednesday, February 18th, until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, April 2nd.

THANK YOU—PARISH FUND RAISERS 2014 Below is listed the profit of our 2014 Parish Fund Raisers. Thank you again to everyone who helped in any way to make these Fund Raisers so successful. We pray that our 2015 Fund Raisers will be equally successful!

FOOD CARDS/FOOD PANTRY EASTER FOOD CARDS: We have a total of (15) families on our Food Card list. If you know of any family or individual who needs help, please call the rectory or put a note in the collection basket. If you have put someone on the list in the past and they no longer need help, please let us know. You may put your donation, (check or cash), in the collection basket in an envelope marked “attention: Kay—Food Cards” or mail it to the rectory. All donations are needed and are greatly appreciated.

FOOD PANTRY: We are now preparing for Easter Baskets. Donations for hams would be appreciated and should be put in the collection marked Food Pantry. Any checks must be made payable to “The Food Pantry”. Thank you for sharing with others. May God bless you a hundredfold.

SENIOR FOOD BOXES The CEO Outreach representative, has finally gotten the go ahead to complete registrations for Senior Food boxes. We must first prove that there is a need in this community. (There is an income require-ment.) If all goes well, we may be able to do our first distribution this summer. If there is anyone in St. Brigid Parish who lives in Susquehanna County, you may be eligible for these Senior Food boxes. Boxes contain non-perishable items (think like emergency supplies!). You do not have to be getting food at the monthly food distribution to be eligible. You can also be receiving food from a Food Pantry and still receive the Senior Food boxes. If you are interested, and get food at the Food Distribution on February 17th, please inquire there. If you do not go to the Food Distribution, please call the Parish Office (570-553-2288) as soon as possible and you will be put in contact with the proper persons.

SHEETS/BLANKETS/NECK TIES NEEDED

Old/used sheets & blankets are needed to make sleeping bags for the homeless. If you are cleaning out your closet, please consider donating them for this worthy cause. Donations can be left in the back of the Churches or dropped off at the Rectory, (if no one is there, please leave donations on the porch by the driveway). All donations are most welcome. Also needed are old, used neckties (not clip-on).

DOUG’S FISH FRY TO GO—TO BENEFIT MOM’S HOUSE Doug’s Fish Fry to Go will be at the Toys-R-Us parking lot on Friday, February 27th, from 11:00AM to 6:00PM. You can call your orders in until 4:00PM. (607-423-5996)

CURSILLO The Diocese of Scranton Cursillo Movement will be hosting a “Grand Ultreya” on Sunday, March 8th, 2:00PM to 6:00PM. The afternoon will begin with Holy Mass at Queen of the Apostles Church, 715 Hawthorne St., Avoca, Pa. All Diocesan Parish Cursillistas and friends are invited to join us for an afternoon of prayer, friendship, sharing and fun. A pot luck dinner and music are part of the day. Please join us! Any questions can be directed to madcroft526@msn.com

BE A MAN! - BECOMING THE MAN GOD CREATED YOU TO BE Please join us for the Diocese of Scranton’s First Annual Catholic Men’s Conference which will be held on Saturday, April 25th, from 8:00AM to 3:00PM, at King’s College, Scandlon Physical Education Center, 149 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre. The conference will feature nationally known speakers and opportunities for Eucharistic Adoration, Reconciliation, Mass, and Prayer. Adoration and Rosary will be at 6:00AM; welcome is at 8:00AM; departure is at 3:00PM. Registration fee is $ 35.00. (Early Bird $ 30.00 until March 31st.) Students cost is $ 15.00. For complete schedule and registration, please visit: http://www.dioceseofscranton.org (from the top menu choose “Parish Life and Mass Times” and then “Catholic Men’s Conference”) A group will be going from St. Brigid Parish, if you are interested in attending, please contact Bob Reichlen (570-553-2618).

Lottery Calendars: $ 10,000.00 Pot O’Gold Party: $ 13,020.21 Picnic: $ 10,745.88 Chance Books raffled at Pot O’Gold Party: $ 3,236.42 Ad Book: $ 3,632.00 Turkey Party: $ 1011.75

The Light Is On For You at St. Brigid Parish, St. Francis Xavier Church, Friendsville, from 6 to 7:00PM, Monday evenings during Lent. In this Year of Faith, the Church invites us to renew our faith and rekindle our relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ. One of the greatest ways to accept this invitation is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, given to us by Jesus to receive His healing love.

The Church encourages us to make confession a regular part of our spiritual life, especially during the holy season of Lent, as we reflect on our baptism and repentance. Bishop Joseph C. Bambera is helping to make this experience possible by arranging for a Lenten initiative called The Light Is On For You. Every Monday evening during Lent (Feb. 18th, 25th; March 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th), many parishes throughout the Diocese of Scranton will have their “lights on” from 5:30PM to 7:00PM for confession so that Catholics can come to or return to this incredible source of God’s grace, mercy and healing. The website, www.dioceseofscranton.org/light has materials to assist you in preparing to make a good confession, prayers you may find helpful, and answers to frequently asked questions. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

DIOCESAN ANNUAL APPEAL UPDATE

If you did not already make a pledge, envelopes are available in the back of the Churches for your pledge. Each gift truly matters. Thank you to everyone for your generosity. Completed pledges may be placed in the collection basket or mailed to the Rectory. St. Brigid Parish goal is $ 24,000.00. Currently we have (128) pledges for a total of $ 20,624.00. We are only under our goal by $ 3,351.00. Anyone who is able, is asked to please help us to reach our goal. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

RETROUVAILLE—KNOW A MARRIAGE THAT NEEDS HELP? If your marriage is tearing the two of you apart, if there is little or no meaningful communication, if you are considering separation or divorce, then the Retrouvaille program can help. Retrouvaille is helping couples put the pieces back together and to rediscover a more loving relationship. The next local program will be February 27th to March 1st, 2015 at the Ramada Inn, Clarks Summit, PA. Registration is required. All calls are confidential. Cost is by donation. Please call 1-800-470-2230 or visit http://www.retrouvaille.org/ for more information or to register.

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS AND CELEBRATION His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, and the Office for Parish Life wish to invite couples celebrating their 25th or 50th wedding anniversary in 2015 to a diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, June 7. (Please note: This is a change from the original date of June 21.) The event includes a 2:30PM Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral followed by a reception. Requests for an invitation, with a mailing address, should be made through your pastor before March 16th. Please call the Parish Office if you would like to attend this very special Mass.

ASH WEDNESDAY—FEBRUARY 18TH

The schedule for Mass and distribution of Ashes is as follows: 7:30AM—St. Augustine Church—Deacon Ken Brennan will distribute Ashes

6:00PM—St. Francis Xavier Church—Fr. Cas will say Mass and distribute Ashes Ash Wednesday is a day of universal fast and abstinence in the Church. On this day, ashes are blessed and imposed after the homily. These ashes are of branches of the olive tree, or, according to custom, of the palm tree or other trees, which have been blessed the previous year. Apart from Mass, a liturgy of the Word precedes the rite of blessing, concluding with general intercessions, the Lord’s Prayer, and a hymn. The ordinary minister of the blessing of ashes is a priest or deacon. Others (e.g., special ministers of communion) may assist with the imposition of ashes where there is a genuine need, especially for the sick and shut-ins. One of the following formulas is used: Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel. Or Remember, you are dust and unto dust you shall return.

2015 REGULATIONS FOR LENT All faithful of the Diocese of Scranton are reminded of Diocesan Statute No. 41, which addresses the penitential aspect of Lent: “The season of Lent is penitential in nature and during Lent penance should be not only internal and individual, but also external and social (Sacrosanctum Concilium, No. 5, 109). Pastors are obliged to avoid scheduling activities in the parishes which in any way could possibly detract from the external and social penance required by Lent.” During Lent the following fast and abstinence regulations are observed: · Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, April 3rd, are days of fast and abstinence. · Fridays during Lent are days of abstinence. · All Catholics who have reached their 14th birthday are to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and on all Fridays during Lent. · All Catholics over 18 years of age to the beginning of their 60th year are bound to the obligation of fasting. Those bound by this rule may take only one full meal and two smaller meals unless dispensed or excused.

LENTEN REMINDERS Lent is a time for sacrifice and for spiritual renewal as we reflect upon our baptism and the call given to each of us to walk as disciples of the Lord. We are provided with three personal challenges associated with our individual observance of Lent: · Almsgiving – generously giving to those in need · Fasting – practicing self-discipline and self-denial · Prayer – reading, hearing and reflecting on the Word of God Lent is also a penitential season. It is a time to seek forgiveness, to look inward, and to admit our shortcomings and failures. It is a time to regroup and to prepare. How can you spend your time during Lent? · By “giving up” things you hunger after, such as sweets or alcohol; or activities you desire, such as vacations, concerts or movies. · By “doing” things to help others, such as offering an extra donation to the poor or helping those in need by providing food or clothing. · By “adding” to our normal routine, such as going to daily Mass, praying the Stations of the Cross and going to confession.

SCHEDULE FOR STATIONS OF THE CROSS

Stations begin Friday, February 20th, following Noon Mass at St. Francis Church. Stations begin Friday, February 20th, at 6:00PM at St. Augustine Church.

Stations of the Cross will continue with the above schedule all Friday’s during Lent. There will be no Stations of the Cross on Tuesday morning at St.

ROSARY DURING LENT The Rosary will be held before all weekday Masses. Volunteers are encouraged to lead the Rosary. You don’t need to wait for Fr. Cas, as he may be hearing Confessions. If someone would like to lead the Rosary, please do so.

EASTER FLOWER ENVELOPES You are reminded that Easter Flower Donation Envelopes are in your envelope boxes. There is space on the back for memorials.

LENTEN READING MATERIALS In the back of our Churches are copies of the Lenten Edition of “The Word Among Us”, and “The Catholic Digest” as well as the “Little Black Books” for Lent. Please feel free to take a copy home with you and use them as part of your daily Lenten meditations.

COMBINED CHOIR PRACTICE FOR HOLY WEEK & EASTER The Combined Choir is practicing for Holy Week and Easter on Tuesday evenings at 6:30PM in St. Francis Church. Please consider joining the choir to help make our services even more beautiful.

OPERATION RICE BOWL—HUNGERING FOR THE JOURNEY Join our Parish Community—and more than 13,000 Catholic Communities across the United States—in a life-changing Lenten journey with CRS Rice Bowl. Rice Bowl Envelopes are in your envelope boxes and can be put in the collection at any time during Lent. The Rice Bowl Collection will be taken up on Holy Thursday. Remember, your Lenten sacrifices change lives. Lent runs from Ash Wednesday, February 18th, until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, April 2nd.

THANK YOU—PARISH FUND RAISERS 2014 Below is listed the profit of our 2014 Parish Fund Raisers. Thank you again to everyone who helped in any way to make these Fund Raisers so successful. We pray that our 2015 Fund Raisers will be equally successful!

FOOD CARDS/FOOD PANTRY EASTER FOOD CARDS: We have a total of (15) families on our Food Card list. If you know of any family or individual who needs help, please call the rectory or put a note in the collection basket. If you have put someone on the list in the past and they no longer need help, please let us know. You may put your donation, (check or cash), in the collection basket in an envelope marked “attention: Kay—Food Cards” or mail it to the rectory. All donations are needed and are greatly appreciated.

FOOD PANTRY: We are now preparing for Easter Baskets. Donations for hams would be appreciated and should be put in the collection marked Food Pantry. Any checks must be made payable to “The Food Pantry”. Thank you for sharing with others. May God bless you a hundredfold.

SENIOR FOOD BOXES The CEO Outreach representative, has finally gotten the go ahead to complete registrations for Senior Food boxes. We must first prove that there is a need in this community. (There is an income require-ment.) If all goes well, we may be able to do our first distribution this summer. If there is anyone in St. Brigid Parish who lives in Susquehanna County, you may be eligible for these Senior Food boxes. Boxes contain non-perishable items (think like emergency supplies!). You do not have to be getting food at the monthly food distribution to be eligible. You can also be receiving food from a Food Pantry and still receive the Senior Food boxes. If you are interested, and get food at the Food Distribution on February 17th, please inquire there. If you do not go to the Food Distribution, please call the Parish Office (570-553-2288) as soon as possible and you will be put in contact with the proper persons.

SHEETS/BLANKETS/NECK TIES NEEDED

Old/used sheets & blankets are needed to make sleeping bags for the homeless. If you are cleaning out your closet, please consider donating them for this worthy cause. Donations can be left in the back of the Churches or dropped off at the Rectory, (if no one is there, please leave donations on the porch by the driveway). All donations are most welcome. Also needed are old, used neckties (not clip-on).

DOUG’S FISH FRY TO GO—TO BENEFIT MOM’S HOUSE Doug’s Fish Fry to Go will be at the Toys-R-Us parking lot on Friday, February 27th, from 11:00AM to 6:00PM. You can call your orders in until 4:00PM. (607-423-5996)

CURSILLO The Diocese of Scranton Cursillo Movement will be hosting a “Grand Ultreya” on Sunday, March 8th, 2:00PM to 6:00PM. The afternoon will begin with Holy Mass at Queen of the Apostles Church, 715 Hawthorne St., Avoca, Pa. All Diocesan Parish Cursillistas and friends are invited to join us for an afternoon of prayer, friendship, sharing and fun. A pot luck dinner and music are part of the day. Please join us! Any questions can be directed to madcroft526@msn.com

BE A MAN! - BECOMING THE MAN GOD CREATED YOU TO BE Please join us for the Diocese of Scranton’s First Annual Catholic Men’s Conference which will be held on Saturday, April 25th, from 8:00AM to 3:00PM, at King’s College, Scandlon Physical Education Center, 149 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre. The conference will feature nationally known speakers and opportunities for Eucharistic Adoration, Reconciliation, Mass, and Prayer. Adoration and Rosary will be at 6:00AM; welcome is at 8:00AM; departure is at 3:00PM. Registration fee is $ 35.00. (Early Bird $ 30.00 until March 31st.) Students cost is $ 15.00. For complete schedule and registration, please visit: http://www.dioceseofscranton.org (from the top menu choose “Parish Life and Mass Times” and then “Catholic Men’s Conference”) A group will be going from St. Brigid Parish, if you are interested in attending, please contact Bob Reichlen (570-553-2618).

Lottery Calendars: $ 10,000.00 Pot O’Gold Party: $ 13,020.21 Picnic: $ 10,745.88 Chance Books raffled at Pot O’Gold Party: $ 3,236.42 Ad Book: $ 3,632.00 Turkey Party: $ 1011.75

The Light Is On For You at St. Brigid Parish, St. Francis Xavier Church, Friendsville, from 6 to 7:00PM, Monday evenings during Lent. In this Year of Faith, the Church invites us to renew our faith and rekindle our relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ. One of the greatest ways to accept this invitation is through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, given to us by Jesus to receive His healing love.

The Church encourages us to make confession a regular part of our spiritual life, especially during the holy season of Lent, as we reflect on our baptism and repentance. Bishop Joseph C. Bambera is helping to make this experience possible by arranging for a Lenten initiative called The Light Is On For You. Every Monday evening during Lent (Feb. 18th, 25th; March 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th), many parishes throughout the Diocese of Scranton will have their “lights on” from 5:30PM to 7:00PM for confession so that Catholics can come to or return to this incredible source of God’s grace, mercy and healing. The website, www.dioceseofscranton.org/light has materials to assist you in preparing to make a good confession, prayers you may find helpful, and answers to frequently asked questions. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

DIOCESAN ANNUAL APPEAL UPDATE

If you did not already make a pledge, envelopes are available in the back of the Churches for your pledge. Each gift truly matters. Thank you to everyone for your generosity. Completed pledges may be placed in the collection basket or mailed to the Rectory. St. Brigid Parish goal is $ 24,000.00. Currently we have (128) pledges for a total of $ 20,624.00. We are only under our goal by $ 3,351.00. Anyone who is able, is asked to please help us to reach our goal. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

RETROUVAILLE—KNOW A MARRIAGE THAT NEEDS HELP? If your marriage is tearing the two of you apart, if there is little or no meaningful communication, if you are considering separation or divorce, then the Retrouvaille program can help. Retrouvaille is helping couples put the pieces back together and to rediscover a more loving relationship. The next local program will be February 27th to March 1st, 2015 at the Ramada Inn, Clarks Summit, PA. Registration is required. All calls are confidential. Cost is by donation. Please call 1-800-470-2230 or visit http://www.retrouvaille.org/ for more information or to register.

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MASS AND CELEBRATION His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, and the Office for Parish Life wish to invite couples celebrating their 25th or 50th wedding anniversary in 2015 to a diocesan Wedding Anniversary Mass on Sunday, June 7. (Please note: This is a change from the original date of June 21.) The event includes a 2:30PM Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral followed by a reception. Requests for an invitation, with a mailing address, should be made through your pastor before March 16th. Please call the Parish Office if you would like to attend this very special Mass.