From Father JimParish Lenten Opportunities:

Come join us at any of our many opportunities:

Celebration of the Sacrament of Penance:o The LAST chance to receive confessions

is April 9th at 8:20am at SJ. We do not perform confessions during Holy Week!

Passion Narrative Education Sessions with Fr. Connolly, OSFS: Today, April 9th

1:15 in Immaculate Conception Chapel

Holy Week Schedule: Holy Thursday: April 13th

o 8:30am Morning Prayer - ICo 7:00pm Mass - SJ

Good Friday: April 14th o 8:30am Morning Prayer - ICo 12:00pm Crosswalk - AME Churcho 7:00pm Mass - SJ

Holy Saturday: April 15th o 8:30am Morning Prayer - ICo 11:00am Blessing of Food - ICo 8:00pm Easter Vigil - IC

Easter Sunday: April 16th o Immaculate Conception:

7:00am, 8:30am, 10:15am NO NOON MASS

o Saint Jude’s: 9:00am, NO 11:00am MASS

Easter Flowers: If you would like to make a donation for Easter flowers in memory of a loved one please use the envelope in your envelope packet or put your donation in a regular envelope. Put the name of the persons to be remembered on the outside of the envelope and place it in the collection basket or send to the Parish Office.

Collections on Holy Thursday and Good FridayThe Collection on Holy Thursday will be for the Parish Outreach. Offerings of non-perishable food or monetary donations will be gratefully accepted. On Good Friday the collection will be for the support of the Holy Lands.

Inspirational quote of the week: “For me prayer is a surge of the heart, it is a simple look towards Heaven, it is

a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.” ~ St. Therese of Lisieux

Crosswalk: We are inviting you to join an Ecumenical Crosswalk on Good Friday, April 14th. The crosswalk will begin at Noon at Wright’s AME Church (125 Booth St. in Elkton) and ends at Trinity Episcopal Church (Bridge & Main St. Elkton.) Anyone wishing to walk and pray the “7 Last Words of Jesus” is welcome! The crosswalk will happen rain or shine! Come reflect and celebrate our Lord!

Fr. Michael Connolly, OSFS Presentation: In reflecting on the 500th Anniversary of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses, Father Connolly’s Topic will be: What Did The Protestant Reformation Do To/For The Catholic Church? His presentation outlines the impact of Luther’s Theses on the Catholic Church at that time and how that impact has shifted over the 5 centuries. The Final presentation is TODAY, APRIL 9 TH at 1:15pm in ICC Chapel. All are welcome!

The Music Ministry is looking for new members! See the bulletin for the schedule of rehearsals for our hand bell, contemporary, children's, and parish choirs. We’re also looking for cantors and accompanists. For more information, contact Dana Brehany, Director of Music Ministry at 410-398-1100 or icsjmusic@gmail.com

April 10, 2017 Monday of Holy Week8:30 AM Shinjiro Kimura

April 11, 2017 Tuesday of Holy Week 8:30 AM Grace Jeffery

April 12, 2017 Wednesday of Holy Week8:30 AM Anthony Sniadowski

April 13, 2017 Holy Thursday8:30 AM Eileen Connolly (Living Intention)7:00 PM Mimo Calvarese

April 14, 2017 Good Friday8:30 AM Morning Prayer 7:00 PM Memorial of the Lord’s Passion

April 15, 2017 Holy Saturday8:30 AM Morning Prayer11:00 AM Blessing of Food8:00 PM Vigil Deacon Joe Kosman

April 16, 2017 Easter Sunday7:00 AM George Armstrong8:30 AM Genevieve Coiner (living intention)

Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord

9:00 AM SJ Paul Biedrzycki10:15 AM Kenneth Hensley Sr.

Liturgy

Readings for next week: Easter Sunday First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43 In this passage, Peter testifies that he and his followers saw the miracles performed by Christ, witnessed His death, and believe in His resurrection. Now they will proclaim to all that Christ is the Son of God. Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 Paul tells the Colossians that they will appear with Christ in glory. They should be mindful of things above rather than things on earth. Gospel: John 20:1-9 In detail, John tells us that when Mary Magdalene visited Christ’s tomb, the tomb was empty. She told the apostles, who ran to the tomb, and saw the “wrappings” on the ground. The disciple who entered first “saw and believed.”

Daily Readings: Palm SundaySunday

Mt 21:1-11; Is 50:4-7; Phil 2:6-11;Mt 26:14—27:66 or 27:11-54

MondayIs 42:1-7; Jn 12:1-11

TuesdayIs 49:1-6; Jn 13:21-33, 36-38

WednesdayIs 50:4-9a; Mt 26:14-25

Thursday: (Holy Thursday)Chrism Mass:Is 61:1-3a, 6a, 8b-9; Rv 1:5-8; Lk 4:16-21Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper: Ex 12:1-8, 11-14;

1 Cor 11:23-26; Jn 13:1-15Friday: (Good Friday)

Is 52:13—53:12; Heb 4:14-16, 5:7-9; Jn 18:1—19:42Saturday: Holy Saturday

Vigil: Gn 1:1—2:2 or 1:1, 26-31a; Gn 22:1-18 or 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18; Ex 14:15—15:1; Is 54:5-14; Is 55:1-11; Bar 3:9-

15, 32—4:4; Ez 36:16-17a, 18-28; Rom 6:3-11; Mt 28:1-10

The gospel reading on Palm Sunday reveals the many trials and tribulations that Christ underwent for our salvation. Before all this takes place however, Jesus rides into Jerusalem and is glorified for the king that He truly is. Palms were laid down on the road as people sang his praises and glorified Him. Shortly afterwards, however this crowd quickly turned on Christ and the same individuals who praised him were now ridiculing him. How often does this happen in our own life? We may find it easy to sing the Lords praises when times are good, but in tough times or

when surrounded by those who ridicule us, do we stand strong? Certainly this is not easy, even Peter himself denied Christ, but with God’s assistance we can endure. Take a moment each day this week to thank God for His sacrifice and ask Him, that in moments of difficulty and persecution that He provide strength to persevere.

Liturgical Ministers for Holy Week: April 13-16:Holy Thursday: 7:00pm St. JudeAltar Servers: Sean M, Ben J, Carolina G, Cecila G EM’s Eileen P, Pat D, Mary Ann S, Pat K, Peggy O Lector: Dwight T Ushers: *unfilled*Good Friday: 7:00pm St. JudeAltar Servers: Ben J, David M, Cecila G, Carolina G EM’s: Cheryl N, John N, Diane C Lector: Michele C Ushers: Holy Saturday: 8:00pm Immaculate Conception Altar Servers: Ben J EM’s: Cheryl N, Mary Ann S Lector: John N, Helen B, Pat K Ushers: *unfilled*Easter Sunday:7:00am: Altar Servers: *unfilled* EM’s: Eileen P Lector: Pierre L Ushers: Eileen P8:30am Altar Servers: Ryan M Sean M EMs: Maryann H, Lector: Mary Ann E Ushers: Wendel S.9:00am (SJ): Altar Servers: *unfilled* EMs: Diane C, Dotty F, Les F, Pat D Lector: Dwight T, Ushers: Jake S10:15am: Altar Servers: Jacob L, Thomas L EM’s: Madison L, Gina L, Julie M Lector: Louis N Ushers:

Children’s Liturgy of the WordChildren’s Liturgy is for children ages 5-8 ONLY. Children who are not in this category are asked to remain in church.

NO Children’s Liturgy on April 16th! Happy Easter!!

Classes will resume April 23rd.

Adoration for Vocations has been a tradition in our parish for almost 20 years. On the first Sunday of each month, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament occurs from 1pm-3pm in IC Chapel. Please come join us to pray for vocations to the priesthood and the religious life. The next opportunity is, Sun May 7th. For information, contact Dermott Mullan at 410-398-3368

RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)The Elect who will be baptized and the Candidates for full communion in the Catholic Church are all

looking forward to the Easter Vigil this Saturday, April 15th at which they will become fully initiated Catholics. They have been learning about our Catholic faith and deepening their relationship with God. Let us all keep them in our prayers. RCIA will be starting new sessions in the fall. Watch the bulletin for announcements after Easter.

ALERT: Change of date for Adult Confirmation Class: If you are 18 years old or older and desire to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation you are invited to attend a Confirmation preparation session being offered TUESDAY, APRIL 18 TH AT 7PM in the Parish Center. **You must register if you want to attend! Contact 410-392-3551 or re@iccparish.org to register, receive forms, or for further information.

Faith FormationImmaculate Conception School News

As our students and teachers enter into Holy Week, our Lenten journey becomes more focused. Our middle school students will celebrate a Seder. On Wednesday, we invite you to join us at 10:30am in the gym when our 8th

graders will present the Living Stations of the Cross before we begin our Easter vacation.

Students will be dismissed at noon on Wednesday, and there is no aftercare available. School will be closed the week after Easter and will reopen on April 24th.

Applications are being accepted for next school year. If you missed our open house, don’t worry! Individual tours are available upon request by contacting the office at 410-398-2636, and we will have another open house later in the spring. Now is the time to consider the benefits of a strong, faith-based, challenging academic program that Immaculate Conception provides.

Faith FormationReligious Education & Sacraments

Explore learning about the Gospel, the Good News of Jesus and our Catholic Faith by registering for our parish religious education program. Classes for children in grades K - 8 are held on Sunday Mornings or Wednesday evenings, (your choice.) Online registration is available at: iccparish.weconnect.com.Questions? Contact the religion office at 410-392-3551.

Registration is also for Sacrament programs. Note: Students must have completed Gr. 1 to prepare for 1st Communion. Students must have completed Gr. 7 and 8 to prepare for Confirmation

SACRAMENT OF FIRST COMMUNION

Rehearsals & corresponding celebrations:

Wed., Apr. 26th: 6:30pm ICC - for Apr. 30th at 2pmThurs., May 4th: 6:30pm SJ - for May 7th at 9am Mon., May 15th: 6:30pm ICC - for May 20th at 5pm

Wed., May 17th: 6:30pm ICC - for May 21st at 2pm

Youth Ministry & Confirmation

April9th: The Way of the Cross/Easter Fun16th - 30th: NO YOUTH GROUP-Happy Easter

May7th: NO YOUTH GROUP14th: Kickball/Dodgeball21st: Family Night28th: Patriotic Rosary into Game Night9 th -12 th and COLLEGE AGE: If you are in 9th-12th or a college-age young adult, you are invited to join youth group, Sunday nights in the Youth Room of the Parish Center from 6-8pm.

7 th and 8 th GRADE YOUTH: Check the website and bulletin for information about youth group.

CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMPWe have a few more slots open for Catholic Heart Work Camp this summer (June 25th - July 1st) to Boston, MA. The cost is $355 per person. If you are interested, please reach out to Liz immediately.

The teens attending Catholic Heart are selling raffle tickets for a steamer trunk. If you are interested in a ticket, please contact the youth office. Tickets are $20 and the sale will run through the beginning of June.

Youth Ministry Wishlist: Soda in Cans, Pizza Gift Cards, snacks, Med/Lg Cardboard boxes, Spray Paint

Adult EducationInterested in a study group?Several different opportunities are available. Call the Parish Office at (410) 398-1100.

ADULT ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

Adult Enrichment Program Entitled: CATHOLICISM: THE PIVOTAL PLAYERS: Classes this Mon., Apr. 10th

at 6:30pm & Tues., Apr. 11th at 9:15am. Topic:

Discussion of questions for Blessed John Cardinal Newman Pt. 2 and viewing of G.K. Chesterton DVD Pt. 1

Holy Heroes Free Mass Prep Resources available: Sign up at HolyHeroesFun.com

HOW IS YOUR LENTEN JOURNEY? This is the last week of Lent as we enter Holy Week. Let us continue to pray for each other as we journey closer to the Lord and prepare to celebrate the gift of New Life this Easter!

YOUNG ADULTS 25-40: Young men and women, ages 25-40, are invited to join our Young Adult Ministry. This is an invitation to you to create an organization where you can find spiritual, social, & service activities which can enrich you personally as well as bring new life into our faith community at. Contact Liz at youthministry@iccparish.org for more information. The Diocese of Wilmington has many events for Young Adults. Check out their website: https://www.cdowcym.org/young-adults/.

Social ConcernsOutreach:

Thank you for your help, prayers, & donations to this essential ministry!!

We are currently in need of: toilet paper, house cleaners, diapers size 5 and 6, and cake mix

The Cecil County Pregnancy Center would like to express their deepest appreciation for the generous support of ICC. This year you donated over $7,460! This will make a significant impact on our continuing services to families. These families are finding new hope and encouragement because of your embrace of new life.

Parish and Family Life

Parish Coffee: Join us for Parish Coffee Sunday, May 7th after the 9 AM Mass at St. Jude’s.

Make sure to come meet and welcome our new priest, Father Dunne at coffee and donuts after 10:15 mass TODAY, April 9th!

Parish Events / Information

Did you know that Immaculate Conception is an affiliate partner with The Franklin Institute?! This means that as a parishioner, you get discount pricing for admission and exhibits!!! Simply go to www.fi.edu/affiliates and enter our organization code: ICCPMGRP and then print out your discounted tickets! Check out one of the awesome exhibits they are currently running: Time is running out to see our limited exhibit: and Jurassic World: The Exhibition (closing April 23rd). Book tickets today!

Christian Yoga: All are welcome to join in an hour and a half; Christ-centered meditative and gentle stretching Yoga classes. Classes are:

Mondays 7 - 8:30pm in ICS gym. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a yoga mat and towel. A $5 per class offering is suggested. Come to one or all classes and feel free to bring a friend! Call the parish center with any questions.

Save The Date!! Our 7th Annual Golf Classic is being held on June 12, at Newark Country Club!! Come join us for a great day, great food, and some amazing prizes; including a car donated by Newark Chrysler Jeep Dodge! Spaces are limited! You can register as a golfer, sponsor, or dinner guest. Register online today at iccparish.weconnect.com. We are asking for volunteers to help with the planning committee and to help out the day of. Please contact the parish office at 410-398-1100 to register, volunteer, or for more information

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL PLANNING

Come be a part of this year’s exciting VBS adventure entitled: MAKER FUN FACTORY: Created by God; Built for a Purpose Think about volunteering for

this wonderful faith filled experience! We are in need of Adults and Teens! Contact the parish religion office to volunteer. Watch for the posting of the next volunteer meeting.

Planning on Attending VBS? Register Early so that T-Shirts and supplies can be ordered. Registration Available on our Website: iccparish.weconnect.com.

COMMUNITY KITCHEN: Our next Community Kitchen will be held on April 28th at the Elkton Presbyterian Church at noon. We are asking for donations of sandwiches, fruit, or desserts to be delivered to the Parish Center by 10:00am on the 28th, or brought to the Presbyterian Church before noon. We also need volunteers to help serve the lunch and clean up after. The commitment would be from 11:00am-1:30pm. We would sure love to welcome any new helpers to our wonderful group of volunteers. This is a worthwhile and enjoyable way to be involved in the community. Please call Joyce Speakman at 610-597-3135 or Kathy Chamberlin at 410-398-7299 if you can help in any way. Thank you!!

Does your child need to be Baptized? You’re Invited! Baptism Classes are: May 15 & August 21. All classes are Monday evenings, 7:00-8:30pm in our Parish Center. It’s never too early to prepare for the Baptism of your child. Parents are required and Godparents are encouraged to attend these classes. Contact the Parish Office to register for the Baptism Preparation Class and to arrange the date of Baptism at 410-398-1100

Sunday, April 98:20 AM Confessions - SJ1:15 PM Fr. Michael Connolly, OSFS talk - CH2:30 PM Basketball - gym6:30 PM HS Gathering - PC

Monday, April 109:00 AM Novena – CH6:30 PM Adult Ed Class - PC7:00 PM Christian Yoga8:00 PM AA Mtg - Caf

Tuesday, April 119:00 AM Holy Hour – CH9:15 AM Book Study - PC9:15 AM Adult Ed Class - PC5:00 PM Golf Committee Mtg - PC6:30 PM Handbell Rehearsal - IC7:00 PM LAOH Fundraising Mtg - PC7:30 PM Contemporary Rehearsal -IC

Wednesday, April 12 ICS ½ Day, No Aftercare9:00 AM Rosary Crusade/St Jude Novena – CH9:30 AM Cantor Reh - IC1:00 PM Leisure Club - PC3:45 PM Children’s Choir - IC6:30 PM 1st Communion Reading Practice - IC8:15 PM Knights of Columbus Mtg - PC

Thursday, April 13 ICS No School8:30 AM Morning Prayer9:00 AM Rosary Crusade - CH6:30 PM Cantor Rehearsal - IC6:30 PM Cub Scout mtg - caf7:00 PM Parish Choir Rehearsal - IC7:00 PM Mass - SJ

Friday, April 14 ICS and Parish Office Closed9:00 AM Rosary Crusade - CH3:00 PM Stations of the Cross - IC7:00 PM NA - Caf7:00 PM Memorial of the Passions - SJ

Saturday, April 159:00 AM Rosary Crusade - CH11:00 AM Blessing of Food - IC7:00 PM NA - caf8:00 PM Easter Vigil - IC

Actual Expected $100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$550,000$600,000

Weekly OffertoryJuly 1, 2016-April 2, 2017

Fiscal Year-To-Date Totals

.

Offertory Week of: April 2 Fiscal Budget Immaculate Conception $8,099.90 $9,285.79St. Jude’s $2,006.00 $1,940.31Online $2,683.00 $2,633.28

Christmas Offerings $17,443.00 $26,131.00 $30,231.90 $39,990.38

2017-2018 Fiscal YTD Offertory Deficit ($1,765.47)

If you do not have an Online Giving Account; it is easy to set one up! This is a convenient way to

provide consistent financial support to your church. To sign up:

1.) Go to our website: iccparish.weconnect.com2.) Click on “Go to Online Giving”3.) Sign up!

Community Events / Information

Knights of Columbus Bishop Becker Council 2427

443-616-5370 or www.kofc2427.orgMeetings: 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month at the Parish Center.

The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young people was established by the USCCB in June 2002. It is a comprehensive set of procedures for addressing allegations of abuse of minors. The Charter has guidelines for reconciliation, healing, accountability, and prevention. For more information visit http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/child-and-youth-protection/charter.cfmGood Shepherd Catholic School in Perryville, MD, seeks qualified applicants for the position of PRINCIPAL beginning July 1st. Good Shepherd provides a faith-filled, student-centered, environment that nurtures children and offers a solid academic program. For details contact www.cdowschools.org/gscs.pdf or mfilippone@cdow.org.

The Junior Board of St. Francis Hospital, Inc. Spring Party/Fashion Show is being held Wed, April 26, at the DuPont Country Club at 11:00am. Come enjoy a luncheon, fashion show, cash bar, and much more! Reservations are $50 per person and all profits go toward the purchase of a new ambulance for St. Francis Hospital! For more information please call Regina Abbott, 302-463-5211.