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Lenten Prayer Lord Jesus, we pray throughout the season of Lent that you will open our minds and stir our hearts to follow you more faithfully. We know that you died for us when we were still sinners, and we know we are sinners still. But you have given us a longing to be the people you want us to be: faithful, hope-filled and loving. Help us to make the most of these forty days marked by fasting, prayers and almsgiving so that we might draw near to you and give you greater glory. Amen. "Formed by Word and Sacrament, we, the people of St. Paul Catholic Church, are a Spirit-led, Eucharist-centered, vibrant multicultural Christian community of faith, living our love for God and neighbor while growing together as disciples of Christ." 12708 N Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, FL 33618-2802 Phone 813-961-3023 - Fax 813-962-8780 Sunday February 25, 2018 ST. PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH AND PRESCHOOL WWW.STPAULCHURCH.COM Second Sunday of Lent Children’s Lenten Mission March 5th at 7pm and Nursery available for parents to attend our Mission with Jon Leonetti March 5-7

S . PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH AND PRESCHOOL .S P C · Lenten Prayer Lord Jesus, we pray throughout the season of Lent that you will open our minds and stir our hearts to follow you more

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Lenten Prayer

Lord Jesus, we pray

throughout the season of Lent

that you will open our minds

and stir our hearts

to follow you more faithfully.

We know that you died for us

when we were still sinners, and

we know we are sinners still.

But you have given us a longing

to be the people

you want us to be:

faithful, hope-filled and loving.

Help us to make the most of

these forty days marked by

fasting, prayers and almsgiving

so that we might draw near to

you and give you greater glory.

Amen.

"Formed by Word and Sacrament, we, the people of St. Paul Catholic Church, are a Spirit-led, Eucharist-centered, vibrant multicultural Christian

community of faith, living our love for God and neighbor while growing together as disciples of Christ."

12708 N Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, FL 33618-2802 Phone 813-961-3023 - Fax 813-962-8780

Sunday February 25, 2018

ST. PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH AND PRESCHOOL WWW.STPAULCHURCH.COM

Second Sunday of Lent

Children’s Lenten Mission March 5th at 7pm and Nursery available for parents to attend our

Mission with Jon Leonetti March 5-7

All are Welcome!

Weekend Masses

Saturday Masses 8:30 am Mass

(Morning Prayer and Benediction 8:10am)

Saturday Vigil Mass 5:30 pm

Missa em Português: 7:30 pm

Sunday Masses 7:30 am, 9:00 am, 10:45 am, 12:30 pm, 5:30 pm

Misa en Español: 2:00 pm

Weekday Masses Monday to Friday

7:30 am and 12:15 pm

First Friday Mass 7:30 pm

Saturday - 8:30 am (Morning Prayer and Benediction 8:10 am)

Reconciliation/Confession

M-F 11:30am-Noon Saturdays 10 am and 4 pm

or upon request

24 Hour Eucharistic Adoration

Every Wednesday and Thursday

8 am to 9 pm

Every Friday 8:30 am to Saturday 8:20 am

Morning Prayer Monday - Friday 7:10 am

Saturday 8:10 am

Anointing of the Sick Every Second Saturday of the

Month at 8:30 am

Church Office Address: 12708 N. Dale Mabry Hwy

Tampa, FL 33618-2802 813.961.3023

Fax 813.962.8780 Office Hours: 8am to 4pm www.StPaulChurch.com

[email protected]

Our Vision Statement: “Growing Together

as Disciples of Christ.”

My Dear Friends, Today we are invited to climb Mt. Tabor with our Lord, Peter, James, and John and experience the wonder of the Transfiguration. Jesus speaks to us through the Sacred Scripture: “Listen to Him!” We witness the bread and wine “transfigured” into the Body and Blood of our Lord and Savior. “Transfigured” by this sacred encounter, we must allow His light to shine through us as we leave the “holy mountain” to proclaim the love and mercy of God through all we say, think, and do! Let us glory in the Transfiguration! As we celebrate the second Sunday of Lent, it is good to take stock of our progress to date. Remember, the goal of Lent is to help us to grow ever closer to God, to grow in holiness through prayer, fasting, and works of charity. If Lent has been a total bust so far, don’t be discouraged. Do what you can to grow closer to God. Trust in Him! What does He ask of us? To love Him with all our hearts and souls and to share His love and mercy with our neighbors. We do this is through our generous donations to the Annual Pastoral Appeal or APA. Thanks to you, our diocese is able to provide essential services and ministries affecting hundreds of thousands of people throughout our 5 county diocese including you and me. Yes, you and I are a beneficiary of APA. How so? Every aspect of this parish ... from who is assigned as priests to the education of our children ... from the quality of our liturgies to the maintenance of the buildings ... is guided and assisted through the ministrations of our diocesan Pastoral Center. If it weren’t for the help of APA, our parish would truly suffer. Furthermore, every dollar donated helps our parish in that it pays our bill or assessment. What is not donated, must be paid directly by the parish. Your donation allows us to have more money to invest in programs and services for our parish! Some may object and say that they don’t want the money to be paid for legal fees or insurance due to clergy misconduct. Neither do I! Actually, our diocese has aggressively dealt with all credible allegations so we don’t have the problems that you hear about in the news. Also, the bishop has other sources of money to handle the normal legal and insurance costs. You can also designate on the pledge envelope how you would like your donation to be used: for the poor, seminary and clergy education, education of children, or other where it is most needed. It is my hope and prayer that EVERY family in our parish will make a pledge ... however great or small. And I know that, in return, God will bless us for our care and concern for others. If you have any questions about APA, please see me. Meanwhile, know you and your loved ones are in my prayers! And don’t forget to invite your family and friends to join you next week to hear Jon Leonetti speak at our Masses! Growing together as disciples of Christ,

Fr. Bill Swengros, Pastor

Growing Together as Disciples of Christ Page 2

“’Here I am!’ he answered.” - Genesis 22:11

Upcoming Liturgical and Parish Events Page 3

Lenten Food Drive Bags Returned on February 24th-25th

Volunteers Needed! Thank you for returning your Food Drive bag this weekend! Your donations are a true blessing to our Food Pantry. If you would like to help us sort through the donation bags, please come to Family Center Section 3 after you attend

Mass. St. Vincent de Paul members will be there to welcome you and show you how you can help. Thank you for your generosity! ~St. Vincent de Paul Society Each Friday of Lent at 3pm, the hour of mercy, and 7pm we will have the Stations of the Cross. Of course, you are welcome to meditate upon the passion at any time. We have Stations in the Church, Peace Patch, and Rosary Garden.

Taizé Prayer Thursday March 1

7pm We will adore the Eucharistic Lord and offer Solemn Benediction within the context of a Taize Prayer Service. If you have never experienced the wonder of Taizé, you are in for a treat! Come and bring a friend!

March 5 - 7 from 11am-Noon or 7pm-8pm “God’s Dream for your Life” Parish Mission

with Jon Leonetti

Please pray for each one of our Catechumens and Candidates, that God may guide them and strengthen

them in their faith journey.

Catechumens

Andrade, Aidan Andrade, Kametza Andrade, Alessandro Buscemi, Noah DeJesus, Juliana DeJesus, Victor Garcia, Christopher Sanchez, Angela Padron, Albert Perez, Frank Soarez Sena, Kemylli Torres, José Alves Ferreira, Marco Tulio Devore, Raleigh Haemmerlie, John Leal, Jack Patton, Brandi Richman, Ivan Tavakoli, Noushafarin Zeitler, Christine

Candidates Banuelos, Rhonda Barrera, Delia Glaze, Brandon Hartmann, Sarah Raiano, Sara Ray, Peter Tooma, Terah Giraldo, Noah Hernandez, Jennifer Esmeralda Lara, Ismael Lopez, Samantha Lopez, Norma Sarah Martinez, Anny Martinez, Charly Martinez, Christopher Perez Espinoza, Miguel Angel Cantor, Victoria Cardoso, Guilherme Cardoso, Jorge De La Rosa, Jasmine Fernandez Romero, Ariadna Figueredo, Ricardo Gonzalez-Ramos, Justin Hull, José Martinez, Yaretzy Sanchez, Felix Uriel Brogan, Maggie Jaramillo, Keven Brown, Sarah Da Silva Lourenco, Anderson Estevez, Rafaela Garcia, Susan LoCicero, Jenna LoCicero, Jennifer LoCicero, Michelle Lopez, Claudia Moraes, Gedalva Waldorf Brianna

Our very own Parish Manager, Michael Maloney, dressed up as M i c h a e l t h e Mailman this past week so the three year old classes could "buy" stamps and "mail" their Valentines. Mindy also sneaks out of the office from time to time to read to the kids. We are blessed to work within a church community who totally embraces our little ones!

Registration is now open and for the 2018-2019 school year. For information please contact us at 813-264-3314; [email protected]

Excellence in Catholic preschool education for over 30 years

Children's Corner Page 4

Infant Baptism “Baptism incorporates us into the life, Death, and Resurrection of Christ

and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the world”

God reaches out to us in all kinds of ways. The desire in your heart to baptize your child is one of them. The promises you make for your child on this day will begin to form your child into a faith-filled and faithful follower of Christ. But the day of baptism is only the beginning of this Journey. Being baptized is literally a life changing event and not only for your child.

The Sacrament of Baptism at St. Paul take place on the first three Saturdays of every month in English and the fourth Saturday of every month in Spanish. If your child is to be baptized in Portuguese, please call Baptism Coordinator, Ignacio Vidal, for more information at 813-264-3311. Parents and Godparents will

ST. PAUL PARISH

EASTER EGG HUNT

Saturday March 31, 2018

Starting at 10 am

DONATIONS WELCOME!

We would greatly appreciate donations of

plastic eggs, small wrapped candy, toys,

etc. that would fit inside a standard egg.

Please drop off your donations to the Faith

Formation Office attention Ignacio Vidal.

Thank you! Teen Volunteers Needed!

Sign-up with [email protected]

Page 5

“’Here I am!’ he answered.” - Genesis 22:11

Liturgy Corner Page 5

Pope Francis

Dear brothers and sisters: In our catechesis on Holy Mass, we now turn to the

Profession of Faith and the Universal Prayer of all the Christian faithful. In the Liturgy of the Word, after the homily and a time of silence, the whole assembly professes its faith: we recite the Creed, which bridges the sacraments of Baptism and the Eucharist. In doing so, we respond to what we have heard and received; this will lead us, in turn, to the Sacrament of the Eucharist. The Apostles’ Creed, which is the Church of Rome’s Baptismal Creed, may be appropriately taken up especially in Lent and Eastertide. Particularly on Sundays and feast days, we then offer the prayers of all the faithful: “for holy Church, for the civil authorities, for those oppressed by various needs, for all mankind, and for the salvation of the entire world.” (General Audience for 14 February 2018)

Saints of God

Saint Katharine Drexel, daughter of a wealthy banker and philanthropist, was born in Philadelphia in 1858. Her parents instilled in her a love for the Lord and for the poor. On a trip

West, she was struck with the plight of the native Americans. Later when visiting Pope Leo XIII in Rome she asked him to send more missionaries. He asked her to consider being a missionary. She did so and devoted her life to the case for native Americans and African Americans, founding 60 schools and missions. She did not hesitate to speak out against injustice, taking a public stance whenever racial discrimination was in evidence. What was the source of her power? The Eucharist and a life of prayer. She returned home to the Lord on March 3, 1955. This Thursday, the Feast of St. Katherine Drexel, let us pray for all those who continue to feel the sting of prejudice and discrimination and for all teachers. Let us pray: “Blessed Katherine Drexel, by the grace of Christ and for the love of God and your fellow human beings, you put your wealth to work for the poor and marginalized, bringing them education, healing, and the opportunity to participate in their own lives. May your example of conversion and cross-cultural solidarity be an evangelical witness for all people. We particularly ask your intercession on behalf of the rich and powerful, that they will stop committing injustices against the poor and embrace the culture of life that calls us to healing and wholeness and communion with God and solidarity with our neighbor. Amen.”

Thought for the day

“Do not be depressed. Do not let your weakness make you impatient, Instead, let the serenity of your spirit shine through your face. Let the joy of your mind burst forth. Let words of thanks break from your lips.”

– St. Peter Damian, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

Mass Intentions for the Week of February 25th Saturday February 24, 2018 5:30 pm S. Julian Menendez + 7:30 pm Robert Novak + Sunday February 25, 2018 7:30 am Freddie Rodriguez (int.) 9:00 am Malcom “Mike” Land + 10:45 am Ortega-Rodriguez Family (int.) 12:30 pm Gualberto Ortiz + 2:00 pm St. Paul Parishioners (int.) 5:30 pm Dencie Devora (int.) Monday February 26, 2018 7:30 am Andrew Puleo + 12:15 pm John Deiter + Tuesday February 27, 2018 7:30 am Norma Uliassi (int.) 12:15 pm Anthony and Jennie Giordano + Wednesday February 28, 2018 7:30 am Loretta J. Mikkelson + 12:15 pm Consecrated Life & Priestly Vocations (int.) Thursday March 1, 2018 7:30 am Fr. Bob Romaine (int.) 12:15 pm Rita Dennis (int.) Friday Mach 2, 2018 7:30 am Joe and Lina Baruto 50th Wedding Anniversary(int.) 12:15 pm Tomasa Mendoza + 7:30 pm Eduardo Garcia (int.) Saturday March 3, 2018 8:30 am Nicholas Anton + 5:30 pm Lilian and Max Zambrano + 7:30 pm Carmellina Cayon + Sunday March 4, 2018 7:30 am Jaroslaw Paul Miernik + 9:00 am Christopher Johnson + 10:45 am Partners in Prayer (int.) 12:30 pm Michael and Mike Hingson + 2:00 pm Jose Romo + 5:30 pm St. Paul Parishioners (int.)

Readings for the Week of February 25, 2018

Sunday Second Sunday of Lent Gn 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18; Rom 8:31b-34; Mk 9:2-10 Monday Dn 9:4b-10; Lk 6:36-38 Tuesday Is 1:10, 16-20; Ps 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23; Mt 23:1-12 Wednesday Jer 18:18-20; Ps 31:5-6, 14, 15-16; Mt 20:17-28 Thursday Jer 17:5-10; Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6; Lk 16:19-31 Friday Gn 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a; Ps 105:16-17, 18-19, 20-21; Mt 21:33-43, 45-46 Saturday Saint Katharine Drexel, Virgin Mi 7:14-15, 18-20; Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12; Lk 15:1-3, 11-32 Sunday Third Sunday of Lent Ex 20:1-17 or Ex 20:1-3, 7-8, 12-17; Ps 19:8, 9, 10, 11; 1 Cor 1:22-25; Jn 2:13-25

Page 6

Join us! Every Friday of Lent

5-7pm Dine-in at the Family Center or

Carry-out orders available Adults - $9.00 • Youth - $6.00

Children 10 and under - FREE! (Credit Cards Accepted)

Join us Every Friday! Page 6

St. Paul

Council

Of Catholic

Women

Sponsored by:

Knights of Columbus Ambassadors of St. Paul [Council 11211]

Please remember the young men and women who are separated from their loved ones as they serve our country. If you would like to have your loved one remembered by our parish family, please contact Elizabeth at the parish office 813-961-3023. Electronic images are welcome. Let us pray peace in the world and for their safe return home! Hans C. Arcand, 2nd LT. USAF

Martin O. Reina, USCG

Patrick Rose, Capt PA, US Army

Nicholas Ringo, III US Navy

Mathew M Colon, Sgt., US Army

Michael Dunkelberger, Master Sargent, USAF

Christopher A. Garcia, LTJG, U.S. Navy

Richard Majette, Captain, USMC

Katrina Monti, Captain, PA US Army

Jonathan Monti, Major, PA US Army

Richard Sison Jr, 2nd Lt., USAF

Matthew Mooney, Captain, USAF

Curtis Gardner, Sergeant, USAF

Adriana Trigg, USAF

Anthony Mazzie, US Army

Luis Luccani, PO, US Navy

Austin Jacob Ferlita, Pvt2s, US Army

Josh C. Seal, PO, US Navy

Corinna Fleischmann, CDR, USCG.

Morganne Oyler, US Navy

Sean C. Andino, Ensign, US Navy

Thomas Krasnicki, Lt, US Navy

Brett Smith, US Marine Corp.

Dominick J. Agnes III, Sgt, US Marine Corps

Brian J. Babin, SS, USMC

Spencer M. Brown, U.S. Army, Pvt.

John Erickson, Cpl US Army

Jacob Torrens, US Army, Pvt

Cody Rigney, LT, US Navy

Adam Tapia, LT, US Army

Jason Mitchell, WO4, US Army

Alexander Maldonado, Captain, USAF

Looking Ahead! March 5-7 - Lenten Mission with John Leonetti; March 8 - 5-8pm This Light is On for You confessions; March 11 - Daylight Savings Time; March 16-17 - Eucharistic Congress in

Jacksonville; March 20 - 7pm Communal Reconciliation Service; March 23 - 7:30pm Lenten Concert; March 25 - Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion; March 26 - 6:30pm Seder Super; March 28 - 7pm Via Crucis; March 29 - 7pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper; March 30 - Good Friday; March 31 - 8pm Easter Vigil; April 1 - Easter Sunday!

The time has come for our parish mission! Are you ready? Next week March 5 - 7 we will be hosting Catholic speaker and best-selling author, Jon Leonetti, for a three evening parish mission you will never forget! Each day Jon will be

presenting from from 11am - Noon or at 7pm - 8pm. on three distinct topics within our Catholic faith. Day 1, Who is God and why does that matter? Day 2, Jon will outline the lives of some of the most fascinating and holy people to ever walk the planet. And Day 3, Jon will help us live an authentic relationship with Jesus in the messiness of everyday life. Make sure to invite a family member or friend! Complimentary child-care provided in our nursery room. Also, Children’s Lenten Mission on Monday night, March 5 at 7pm in the Family Center. Join us for refreshments afterwards.

Special Lenten Opportunity Take some steps toward true and lasting happiness. Join Sister Theresa Betz on Wednesday, February 21st and 28th, and March 14th and 21st from 11:15-12:00 in the Parish Office Room E. She will guide reflection and discussion on Jon Leonetti’s book The Art of Getting over Yourself. No registration needed. Just come. Come to one or all sessions.

Page 7

“’Here I am!’ he answered.” - Genesis 22:11

Growing Together as Disciples of Christ! Page 7

Florida Eucharistic Congress 2018

Jacksonville Do you want to experience a celebration

of faith like no other? Then attending the Eucharistic Congress on March 16-17, 2018 is a must. Join our clergy and parishioners at this phenomenal once a year celebration! St. Paul parishioners may book in advance at the Omni Hotel in Jacksonville with a negotiated rate of $132 per night. Please use the following link to plan your reservation https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/jacksonville/meetings/diocese-of-saint-augustine-eucharistic For more information please visit www.floridaeucharist.org

In Loving Sympathy to the families of our recently departed parishioners Andres Acevedo, Richard Garcia, Juanita Youmans, Sam Pulara, Ralph Robertson, Marilyn Powers, Marjorie June Willett, Isabel Triana, Juanita White Max Zambrano, Isabel Triana, Paul Briody, Irene Markarian, Mary Sullivan Esseff, Sharon Stinson Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let the perpetual light shine upon them.

The Big Red Bus will be at St. Paul on

Sunday March 11th from 8am –1pm

Give the gift of Life!

8

St. Paul Faith Formation We are rooted in Faith and growing in grace

One of the real challenges that we too often find in our busy lives is finding time to be together as a family. It is especially difficult to find opportunities to pray together. Here are a few possibilities for praying as a family during Lent: Meal times, in the car on the way to school, preparing dinner in the kitchen, on the way home from or to a school or sporting activity. Let’s teach our children to hold one another up to the Lord by praying for each other. Even when we are not physically together as a praying family. We can easily add gestures that bring powerful prayer to our family life. One of the simplest and most natural gestures is to trace a cross on a loved one's forehead. May our Lord bless our praying, especially at home with our family in these days of Lent. Dates to remember:

First Communion Retreats for those registered to receive in May:

- Group A- March 3rd, 2018 - 1pm to 5:30pm Mass - Group B-March 10th, 2018 - 1pm to 5:30pm Mass

Lenten Parish Mission for children - Monday, March 5th 7pm - 8:30 pm for children grades K-6th are encouraged to attend for parents who attend the Parish Mission. In Family Center.

Spring Break is week of March 11-17. Classes will resume on March 18th

Children’s Lenten Mission Retreat

When: Monday, March 5, 2017

Time: 7:00-8:00pm (Same time as the Adult Advent Mission) Where: Family Center Who: Children ages 6-10 RSVP: [email protected]

Hosted by your

American Heritage Girls Troop FL 147

Nursery will be available as well for the little ones in the Church. RSVP with [email protected]

Vacation Bible School

June 18 ~ 22 9 am to Noon

Grades pre-K4 – 5th Registration opens

April 23rd

Our Lady of Good Counsel Camp Good Counsel Camp is the youth camp of the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida. We are located about 60 miles north of Tampa. We are a co-ed camp and accept campers from 7 to 15 years of age. To register please visit our website at Goodcounselcamp.org. Online registration is located in the bottom left corner. Our sessions go from June 10-22 to July 15-27. For more information email [email protected]

“’Here I am!’ he answered.” - Genesis 22:11

Page 9

Thank you for coming to our Lenten Supper Middle School Families meeting

and reflecting on the season of Lent!

Remember the three pillars of Lent: Prayer, Fasting and

Almsgiving and most importantly, the sacrifice that Jesus made for us

in the cross.

We need you!!

Participate in the

Living Stations of

the Cross

March 30th

12pm

We practice

every Sunday

@3pm

Email: [email protected]

St. Paul Parish wants YOU! Are you 16 – 30 years of age??

For just $500 ($2,500 regular price) you can be a part of

World Youth Day 2019!!

Pope Francis says: “We have to prepare ourselves. I invite all the young people of the world to live with faith and enthusiasm this event of grace and fraternity, both those] going to Panama and [those] participating in their communities.” F o r m o r e i n f o e m a i l : [email protected] or to make a donation.

Dear Parishioners, Thank you so much for your help to the young survivors of human trafficking here in the Tampa Bay area during our annual donation drive week-end. Again, you have answered the call to help those who rely

on others for their welfare with overwhelming generosity. You have shown these girls and boys that our parish community cares about them. Each shelter is receiving a monetary gift with all the much needed supplies that you donated. Redefining Refuge, The Boy's Shelter and the Gate shelters are so appreciative for this continued assistance. With much gratitude,

The Members of SOS Human Trafficking Ministry

Join us on Thursday, March 1 at 7:30pm in the Parish Center for our new ministry meeting - Home Maker of Hope! This ministry is dedicated to furnishing homes to families in crisis or in need. On Monday mornings we will meet at a warehouse in Ybor City and pull household items for a family in need. Then we deliver the furnishings to their home and set things up. There are other ways to help and volunteer too from your own home. If this sounds like something you would be interested in please join us. For more information please call Deacon Frank Henriquez at 813-961-3023 or email him at [email protected] Visit : http://www.homemakersofhope.com

Adult Faith Formation Page 10

Bereavement Ministry of St. Paul

Our ministry offers God’s healing love through emotional, physical, mental and spiritual comfort. Join us every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm in the Parish Center Room H. For information please call Diana at 813-748-2874. Here are the upcoming meeting dates: February 27 - March 13 - April 10- April 24- May 8 - May 22 - June 12- June 26.

Dialogo Matrimonial - MDS

Fortaleciendo y enriqueciendo la vida del Matrimonio y de la Familia. No casados son también bienvenidos. Nos reunimos todos los Martes a las 7:30 pm en el Family Center. Para mayor información contactar a Miguel: (813)817-0512 o Mati: 813-317-4118. Nuestro próximo retiro se llevara a cabo en Abril 13,14 y 15. Registrese pronto!

Spiritual Motherhood for Priests

Welcomes and encourages all women to join us in prayer every Thursday at 1 o’clock following the 12:15pm daily Mass. We pray for and give thanks to God for blessing us with our Priest and all priest in the world. We pray in the back of the church by the Baptismal Font.

Coffee & Donuts Your Host Today: Amor de Jesus Prayer

Group Amor de Jesus is a Spanish Prayer Group that meets weekly in prayer to share their charismatic love of Jesus, to praise and glorify God, and to spread the word of God in a spirit of love and brotherhood. Come meet these faithful followers and get more information about their prayer group.

For more info contact [email protected]

To all the amazing

people who made the

St. Paul Fest

such an awesome

event!

At St. Paul's, we are blessed to have such a talented parish family who give of themselves

and share their time and talents with everybody! That is what makes St. Paul such a special place to pray and play!

OUR SPONSORS

Page 11

Weekly Offertory

Sunday February 18, 2018 Offertory: $ 31,227 Online Giving $ 7,525 Attendance: 3,589 Envelopes: 840

Thank you for your Generosity!

Page 11

“’Here I am!’ he answered.” - Genesis 22:11

Stewardship a Way of Life Page 11

Sign up for Online Giving! It’s simple and convenient.

Go to StPaulChurch.com, and click on the Online Giving link for more

info on how to sign up.

Maloney’s Local Irish Pub

12904 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Carrollwood

813-252-5526

www.maloneyslocalirishpub.com

Barbecue 8546 N Dale Mabry Hwy

813-936-5555

www.hanksplacebbq.com

Talking Rain Beverage (found in local stores)

Parishioner

Neil Norden

Vizcaya

10905 N. Dale Mabry Hwy Carrollwood

813-968-7400 www.vizcayarestaurante.com

St. Paul Fest - A Multicultural Event

We were treated to authentic cuisine and musical performances from the following countries. They donated not only their time and talent but also their treasure!

Countries Food

American Heritage Girls, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany,

Haiti/Senegal, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Korea, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru,

Philippines, Poland, Puerto Rico, Scotland, Slovakia, Spain, Trinidad, USA, and Venezuela

Performances Deacon Frank Henriquez … Emcee

Jose Antonio Acevedo … National Anthem

Nin os del Club Colombia Colombian Club Children Dance

Ninos Cantores Venezolanos & Americanos

Danza de los Veijitos

Philippino Children Dance

Flamenco Dance Solo—Michele Manzo-Lembo

Trumpet Performance - Lou Savary

INDI Dance by Rayna, Meka & Shawna

Broadway Show - Dottie Workowski

Docomar y sus Gaiteros - The Gaita Group Docomar

Philippines Dance

The Lambs of God - St. Paul Faith Formation

Singers Claudio Ruiz & Nancy Medina

Jose Acevedo, Preciosa & Lamento Borincano

Quadrilla Dance - Brazil

Special Events Ministry (Organizers of the Event)

Maria Allison, Patti Cash, Jessica Daubar, Carol Fanella, Al

Garcia, Liz Gilbert, Natalie Gutowski, Jim & Nancy Kissane,

Isabel Mas, Bob Patterson, Dawn Ramos, Mary Lou

Ratterman, Gina Szmyt, Alex & Anita Vazquez, Kerri Whitt El Rincon Peruano

8502 N Armenia Ave #1-G Tampa

813-936-8845

www.elrinconperuano.com

Page 12 Reflections on Scripture Page 12

I. Genesis 22:1-2, 9a,10-13, 15-18. Reflection: There are few more powerful or more puzzling episodes in the Bible than the story of Abraham and the sacrifice of Isaac. (It is unfortunate that the story is presented in the Liturgy in a truncated fashion; you ought to read the entirety, 22:1-19). First, all the readers of the story know that it is a "test." (v. 1). However, the readers also know that Abraham and Isaac did not know. Secondly, the context of the story has two parts: a) child and human sacrifice was a reality in the Ancient Near East. Indeed, the sacrifice of the first born is commanded by Exodus 22:29, but then immediately repealed. b) The Hebrew Bible consistently condemns human sacrifice, even under the penalty of death. (Lev. 18:21, 20:2-5, Deut 12:31, 1Kgs 16:34, etc.) This is what makes the story compelling: the hearers/readers (and Abraham?) knew that God's command was contrary to His Will! Further, Abraham's character was defined by his constant obedience to the commands of God. The author presents a perfect moral dilemma: to obey is to sin; not to obey is to sin! And, finally, remember that God had promised that a

great nation would spring from Abraham's loins, and Isaac was the only chance for this. Hence, killing Isaac would preclude the possibility of God's fulfilling His own promise! We know, of course, that God intervened; and that Abraham was known forever for his unshakable Faith, his unflagging obedience, even in the most impossible circumstances. II. Romans 8:31b-34. The Glory of God's Love Reflection: St. Paul has just completed a discussion of Christian Spirituality, and this short reading is like an exclamation point at the end! If we are sufficiently valuable for God to deliver His Son so that we might have eternal life, then we can expect all the "gifts" of God. God is prodigal in His love. Further, for those who are "chosen," (St. Paul did have a touch of predestinarianism in him!) the Son Himself pleads their case before the Father. This leads up to the "real" conclusion of Chapter 8, some of the greatest spiritual poetry, which I urge you to read. (8:35-39). III. Mark 9:2-10. The Transfiguration. Reflection: The position of this story in the entire Gospel of Mark is interesting;

the first half of the Gospel ended at 8:30, when Jesus asked who people said he was. Some said, "Elijah," some said "John the Baptist; Peter answered, "The Christ." There is the first Passion prophecy, a story about Discipleship, and then the Transfiguration, where Elijah appears again. Recall that Elijah never died; he was taken directly into heaven. (2 Kings 2:11). There was a tradition that the Day of Judgment, when righteousness was restored, and the Kingdom of God would be established on earth would occur when Elijah returned. That Jesus was conversing with Elijah and Moses suggests the two poles of Jesus' ministry: the immediacy of the Kingdom and the continuity with Torah. And we have the grand affirmation from God as to exactly who Jesus was! We have the same definition of "sonship" here and in the story of Isaac: in Greek, both sons were called "agapetos," or "Beloved." And as Isaac was the source of God's People, so Jesus is the "Second Source."

Due to copyright restrictions, we cannot print

the Scriptures before the reflections of Mr.

Conroy. The Scripture for today’s liturgy can

be found in our St. Paul App.

World Youth Day January 19 – 28, 2019

WYD is open to young adults (16-30) who want to take part in a festive encounter with the Pope centered on Jesus Christ. This is an opportunity to experience the universality of the Church; to share with the world the hope of young people who want to commit themselves to Christ. World Youth Day is a unique way to deepen your faith and grow closer to Christ, by means of prayer and the sacraments, together with thousands of other young people who share your interests and ambitions.

Be P.O.P.E. Part Of the Pilgrimage Experience

Who should make the pilgrimage? Youth & Young adults ages 16 to 30. What happens during the event? During WYD week, there will be extensive youth festival programming throughout the country of Panama in addition to the main events with the Pope. How do I learn more? [email protected]

Ambassadors of St. Paul

The Knights of Columbus jo ined Brother Knight, Fr. Stephan Brown, SVD this past weekend to celebrate and honor his 25th Anniversary to the Priesthood. Everyone is invited to join Fr. Stephan on a special celebration on June 23rd at 5pm at St. Joseph Catholic Church 2101 22nd Ave South St Petersburg, FL 33705 Bishop Gregory Parks will be presiding.

St. Vincent De Paul Pantry Hours Monday & Thursday 9am -12pm

Assistance Line: 813-264-3325 Our St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry

feeds more than 50 families each week. Feeding so many, our pantry

shelves don’t stay full for very long. If you would like to help, food

donations can be left in the marked baskets in the church Narthex.

Please note we are unable to use expired items. Wish List This Week:

Spaghetti, Spaghetti Sauce, Red Beans Thank you for your generosity! ~ SVdP

Faith in Action: It is easy to say, “Here I am, Lord,” when we are kneeling in church. But how easy is it to say “Here I am, Lord,” when a neighbor needs our help, when we are invited to join a parish

ministry, or when we are asked to provide financial support? Often times we are called when it’s not convenient for us. Discipleship is not always easy, most of the time it will make us uncomfortable and vulnerable.

English as a Second Language ESL group meets every Monday night at 7:30pm in the Parish Center Room G. Aprenda Inglés! Todos los Lunes a las 7:30pm en el Centro Parroquial Salon G. [email protected]

Outreach Ministries and Community Events Page 13

“’Here I am!’ he answered.” - Genesis 22:11

Diocese of St. Petersburg Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary You Are Invited! Bishop Gregory Parkes will lead a Holy Hour at St. Jude the Apostle Cathedral to consecrate the Diocese of St. Petersburg to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Sunday, May 6, 2018, 3 p.m. Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle

Consecration preparation at St. Paul will begin on April 2nd and we will use True Devotion to Mary through Jesus by St. Louis de Montfort. [email protected]

Cruise to Canada and New England Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of autumn colors! Join Sister Theresa Betz on the Norwegian Escape from October 7-14. Inside cabin price is $809. Brochures are available in the narthex. Any Questions? Call Sister Theresa at 216-469-9184.

First Annual NUN RUN 5K & 1M trail runs in Tampa! Saturday, March 24 at the beautiful Mary Help of Christians campus. Register at runvilla5k.com. Sponsored by the Sisters of Villa Madonna.

Walk For Life 2018 …on the Bay Ben T. Davis Beach

7740 W. Courtney Campbell Causeway

Saturday - April 14, 2018 Registration: 8 - 9 am Walk/Run Begins: 9 am

• 1 mile • 2 miles • 5K Benefitting Foundations of Life Pregnancy Center:

Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco & Pinellas Knights Women’s Center, Tampa

Register Online at: www.foundationsoflife.org

Legal Consultation and Referral Service Every Monday and Wednesday

by appointment only.

Please call 813-961-3023.

Divorced and Separated Support Group This ministry provides caring support for both women and men experiencing separation or divorce. We meet every Friday night at 7:30pm in the Parish center. You may come as often as you would like, every week, once a month or whenever convenient. No charges/no fees. All are welcome. For further information and to answer any questions please call Don Hemke at 813-205-1735.

Guiding Star Tampa Light of Hope Annual Gala

04.12.18 Higgins Hall St. Lawrence Catholic Church

www.guidingstar.org

Counseling Services offered by Dr. Pat Berne

Please call to make an appointment 813-961-3023