WEEKEND MINISTRY SCHEDULE St. Francis—Feb. 23—4:30PM: Lector—Larry O’Reilly; Servers—Volunteer needed; Rosary—Loretta Guiton St. Francis—Feb. 24—8:00AM: Lector—John Butler; Servers—Curtis & Madeline Spila; Rosary—Alice Carr St. Augustine—Feb. 24—10:30AM: Lector—Jack Kelly; Servers—Emma & Hallie Milligan; Rosary—Ann Zalepa

DECEASED Please pray for those who passed away this week, especially Michele D. Murphy, daughter-in-law of Mrs. Ruth (Walter) Murphy. We also pray for Geraldine Gaulin, the great-aunt of Ben & Alan Nelson. May they rest in peace. Amen. SANCTUARY LIGHTS, ADORATION VIGIL CANDLES & DEVOTIONAL CANDLE DONATIONS

A Devotional Candle at St. Francis burns for a Special Intention requested by Joe Purr. A Devotional Candle at St. Francis burns for a Special Intention.

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

St. Augustine cleaners Feb. 17 to 23 - Elizabeth Demaree; Feb. 24 to March 2 - Barb & Bill Pichette. Volunteers are needed to clean St. Augustine Church. If you can help, call the rectory (553-2288).

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, John Spila, Julia Zangara, Kyle Stoddard, Mary Lou Gregg, Sophie Padula, Madigan Gow, John Flynn, Christine Rothwell, Donald & Theresa Baum, Donnie Butler, Nancy Jellick, Tommy Williams, Stephen & Mary Ann Ambrose, Mary Coyle, Toni Colardino, Linda Hollenback, Mary Bakay, Mary Riley, Jennifer Lynn, Tom Wenman, Tyler Fletcher, Evelyn Palulis, Anna Mae Coleman, Jerry Lynch, Joshua Welch, Richard Hutchinson, John Carr, Roma Laboda, Jean Ryan, Joshua Kaminski, Kathy Holt, Chuck Sidener, Aleisya Abrams, Steve & Catherine Hundiak, Christopher Polk, Mary K. Long, Mary Lou Fahs, Butch Rosencranz, Agnes Neville, Frank Hutchinson, Ruth King, Adaline Williams, George Kotch, Ida Ellis, Molly Penderf, Brooke Arnold, Franny Coleman, Hallie Brooks, Rosemary Boyle, Sarah Murnigahan, Robert Peifer, Evelyn Rounds, Janice Russell, Bill Wilcox, M. M., Carl Miller, Ken Teel, Gene Fox, Walter O’Rourke, Candy Coney, Nathan Dallmann, William Chaney, Bill Cadden, Mary Anna Marbaker, Carol Jones, Mary Cadden, Sue Rathbone, Dick Layton, Sandy Szabo, Nancy Lynch, D. K., Peg Reed, Sue Anderson, Peg Taylor, Theresa Noldy, Ken Roon, June Riley, Debbie Kurpiela, John Bauer, John Osolnick, Judy, Francis Zernone, Ned Offner, Sue Camp, Cody Seymour, Bev Curley, Judy Castner-Bloom, Lyle Oakes, Daniel Gavin, Shawn Burns, Quinn Seymour, and Jim Curley. 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 and Community, Cortney Allen, Christopher Reichlen, Patrick Allen, Jeffrey Evans, Shane Kalpokas, Joshua Arey, Ryan Gormley, Mike Griffith, Daniel Hogan, Roger Raub, Matthew Kramer, Dustin Ryder, Ricky Trowbridge, Bobby Brostoski, Ryan Neville, Anthony Flynn, Adam Nelson, A. Jay Tewksbury, Jennifer Buttacavoli, Jason Raymond, Andrew Muscarelle, Adam Barziloski, Reed Shave, John Matousek, David Teetsel, Lisa Phillips, Carrie Krouse, Ryan Newberry, Wayne M. Bennett, Lukas Crisman, Duane Thomas, Joseph Elliott, Michael & Sean Plitt, Mark W. Gregg, Bradley J. Bryant, Taylor Cain, and all who serve with them. May they all be protected and safe from harm and re-turn home soon to their families and friends. Amen.

PARISH PRAYER CHAIN

If you would like to help respond to prayer requests (for anyone in need-not just parish members), please contact Rosalynd Perlick-Spenser (663-2212), Susie Reichlen (553-2618), or Mary Keenan (553-2431). If you have actual prayer requests, please call anyone on the list and many prayers will be offered for your particular intention.

The Roman Catholic Community of ST. BRIGID PARISH,

(St. Francis Xavier Church, Friendsville, Pa.

and 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.”

CONFESSION SCHEDULE

Saturday - 4:30PM Mass - St. Francis Church - Confessions - 4:00 to 4:20PM Sunday - 8:00AM Mass - St. Francis Church - Confessions before & immediately following Mass Sunday - 10:30AM Mass - St. Augustine Church - Confessions - immediately following Mass

Or any convenient time upon request. WEEKLY STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Thank you for your kindness & generosity in our Parish collections: St. Francis (4:30PM) $ 452.00; St. Francis (8:00AM) $ 806.00; St. Augustine (10:30AM) $ 815.00.

LIFELINES

I want you to know I went to Confession tonight [as you suggested in answering my letter to HopeAfterAbortion]. I was terrified. Needlessly. The priest who heard my confession was not disgusted by me, or angry with me. … He was gentle, kind, and loving. Of course, this made me cry. Hard. He was patient. He absolved me of my sins. Told me I was worthy of all God’s kingdom. So not what I expected. This website planted a seed of hope in my heart that I could really be forgiven. God took it from there. ~ Message to www.hopeafterabortion.org from a post-abortive woman

HOLY COMMUNION UNDER ONE ELEMENT AND SHAKING HANDS

As the winter cold & flu season is in full swing, we are suspending shaking hands at the sign of peace. Please acknowledge those around you with a wave or nod of the head. We will also have Holy Communion under one species; the Precious Blood will not be offered until further notice.

MASS SCHEDULE Sat. Feb. 16 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: 1ST SUNDAY OF LENT

RALPH & MARIE GESFORD by Gary & Helena Arbosheski

Sun. Feb. 17 8:00AM St. Francis Church - 1ST SUNDAY OF LENT ANNIV. MARK HURLEY by Allen Hayes

10:30AM St. Augustine Church - INTENTIONS OF OUR PARISHIONERS Mon. Feb. 18 12:00NN St. Francis Church - WANDA & STEVE PURR by Joe Purr

Tue. Feb. 19 8:30AM St. Augustine Church - (Mass & Stations of the Cross) CARL SPENCER by Bob, Jeanne, & Christopher Boos

Wed. Feb. 20 8:30AM St. Francis Church - TOM & LAVERNE LAFLEUR by Kay Caspersen Thur. Feb. 21 8:30AM St. Francis Church - MARY BAHAN by the Estate Fri. Feb. 22 12:00NN St. Francis Church - (Mass & Stations of the Cross)

DONALD PURTELL by Kay Keenan 6:00PM St. Augustine Church - (Stations of the Cross)

Sat. Feb. 23 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: 2ND SUNDAY OF LENT MARY ELLEN FLAHERTY GRIFFIN by Tom & Margaret Flaherty

Sun. Feb. 24 8:00AM St. Francis Church - 2ND SUNDAY OF LENT Anniv. MARY ELLEN GRIFFIN by Don Griffin

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

5:30-7PM St. Francis Church- (The Light is on for you ~ Confessions)

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, 2013. Each Parish Family is asked to take at least (5) calendars to sell. There are packages of (5) calendars & loose (single) calendars available. (Please do not break up the packages.) Please sign the calendars out on the sign out sheet provided. Please help to make this very important fund raiser a success again this year.

HAM & CABBAGE DINNER A St. Patrick’s Day Ham & Cabbage Dinner is being planned for Saturday, March 16th, from 5 to 7:30PM at Neumann Hall, Choconut. Menu: Ham & Cabbage, potatoes, & carrots. Cost for adults - $ 8.00; Children - $4.00; children under 5 - free. Monetary donations are needed to cover the cost of the ham. Donations of pies, cakes or other desserts are also needed. A Planning Meeting will be held on Sunday, February 17th, at 1:00PM at the home of Shirley Kelly. If you are interested in helping to plan the dinner, you are welcome to attend this meeting. More information will be in the bulletin as it becomes available.

PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING The Parish Pastoral Council will meet on Wednesday, February 27th, at 6:00PM in the Rectory. All members are encouraged to attend.

SPECIAL LENTEN INVITATION FOR ADULTS & TEENS A Lenten Study is being held focusing on the Magnificat Lenten Companion. The booklets are provided. Study is at Neumann Hall on Sunday morning from 9:10 to 10:10AM. All are welcome to attend.

CARE & EDUCATION OF PRIESTS ~ THANK YOU Thank you to everyone for your generosity to the collection for Care & Education of Priests. The collection total was $ 369.00.

DIOCESAN APPEAL UPDATE St. Brigid Parish Appeal Goal is $ 23,750.00. Appeal donations total $ 21,802.00. The balance needed to reach our goal is $ 1,948.00.

CONFESSIONS FOR CCD STUDENTS Confessions begin THIS weekend. Children may make their Confession at whichever Mass they attend. Confessions at St. Francis on Saturday begin at 4:00PM. Confessions at St. Francis on Sunday begin at 7:30AM. You can also go immediately following Mass. Confessions at St. Augustine are immediately following Mass. Feb. 16/17 - Confessions for grade 3 & 4; Feb. 23/24 - Confessions for grade 5; March 2/3 - Confessions for grade 6; March 9/10 - Confessions for grade 7; March 16/17 - Confessions for grade 8 thru 12. Parents and CCD teachers are asked to help the children prepare for a good Confession.

FIRST PENANCE First Penance Practice will be Saturday, March 9th, at 11:00AM at St. Francis Church. First Penance will be Saturday, March 16th, at 11:00AM at St. Francis Church.

LENTEN FISH FRY There will be a Lenten Fish Fry to benefit St. Brigid Parish on Friday, March 8th, from 4:30 to 7:00PM, at Neumann Hall. Fish will be baked or fried, macaroni & cheese, coleslaw, beverage and dessert. Cost is $ 8.00. You may either dine in or take-out. Pre-sale tickets will be available after Masses this weekend. Tickets will also be available at the door.

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.

JANUARY FINANCIAL NEWS

Income— $ 17,632.36 Expense— -15,605.02 + 2,027.34

CONFESSION SCHEDULE

Saturday - 4:30PM Mass - St. Francis Church - Confessions - 4:00 to 4:20PM Sunday - 8:00AM Mass - St. Francis Church - Confessions before & immediately following Mass Sunday - 10:30AM Mass - St. Augustine Church - Confessions - immediately following Mass

Or any convenient time upon request. WEEKLY STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Thank you for your kindness & generosity in our Parish collections: St. Francis (4:30PM) $ 452.00; St. Francis (8:00AM) $ 806.00; St. Augustine (10:30AM) $ 815.00.

LIFELINES

I want you to know I went to Confession tonight [as you suggested in answering my letter to HopeAfterAbortion]. I was terrified. Needlessly. The priest who heard my confession was not disgusted by me, or angry with me. … He was gentle, kind, and loving. Of course, this made me cry. Hard. He was patient. He absolved me of my sins. Told me I was worthy of all God’s kingdom. So not what I expected. This website planted a seed of hope in my heart that I could really be forgiven. God took it from there. ~ Message to www.hopeafterabortion.org from a post-abortive woman

HOLY COMMUNION UNDER ONE ELEMENT AND SHAKING HANDS

As the winter cold & flu season is in full swing, we are suspending shaking hands at the sign of peace. Please acknowledge those around you with a wave or nod of the head. We will also have Holy Communion under one species; the Precious Blood will not be offered until further notice.

MASS SCHEDULE Sat. Feb. 16 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: 1ST SUNDAY OF LENT

RALPH & MARIE GESFORD by Gary & Helena Arbosheski

Sun. Feb. 17 8:00AM St. Francis Church - 1ST SUNDAY OF LENT ANNIV. MARK HURLEY by Allen Hayes

10:30AM St. Augustine Church - INTENTIONS OF OUR PARISHIONERS Mon. Feb. 18 12:00NN St. Francis Church - WANDA & STEVE PURR by Joe Purr

Tue. Feb. 19 8:30AM St. Augustine Church - (Mass & Stations of the Cross) CARL SPENCER by Bob, Jeanne, & Christopher Boos

Wed. Feb. 20 8:30AM St. Francis Church - TOM & LAVERNE LAFLEUR by Kay Caspersen Thur. Feb. 21 8:30AM St. Francis Church - MARY BAHAN by the Estate Fri. Feb. 22 12:00NN St. Francis Church - (Mass & Stations of the Cross)

DONALD PURTELL by Kay Keenan 6:00PM St. Augustine Church - (Stations of the Cross)

Sat. Feb. 23 4:30PM St. Francis Church - VIGIL: 2ND SUNDAY OF LENT MARY ELLEN FLAHERTY GRIFFIN by Tom & Margaret Flaherty

Sun. Feb. 24 8:00AM St. Francis Church - 2ND SUNDAY OF LENT Anniv. MARY ELLEN GRIFFIN by Don Griffin

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

5:30-7PM St. Francis Church- (The Light is on for you ~ Confessions)

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, 2013. Each Parish Family is asked to take at least (5) calendars to sell. There are packages of (5) calendars & loose (single) calendars available. (Please do not break up the packages.) Please sign the calendars out on the sign out sheet provided. Please help to make this very important fund raiser a success again this year.

HAM & CABBAGE DINNER A St. Patrick’s Day Ham & Cabbage Dinner is being planned for Saturday, March 16th, from 5 to 7:30PM at Neumann Hall, Choconut. Menu: Ham & Cabbage, potatoes, & carrots. Cost for adults - $ 8.00; Children - $4.00; children under 5 - free. Monetary donations are needed to cover the cost of the ham. Donations of pies, cakes or other desserts are also needed. A Planning Meeting will be held on Sunday, February 17th, at 1:00PM at the home of Shirley Kelly. If you are interested in helping to plan the dinner, you are welcome to attend this meeting. More information will be in the bulletin as it becomes available.

PASTORAL COUNCIL MEETING The Parish Pastoral Council will meet on Wednesday, February 27th, at 6:00PM in the Rectory. All members are encouraged to attend.

SPECIAL LENTEN INVITATION FOR ADULTS & TEENS A Lenten Study is being held focusing on the Magnificat Lenten Companion. The booklets are provided. Study is at Neumann Hall on Sunday morning from 9:10 to 10:10AM. All are welcome to attend.

CARE & EDUCATION OF PRIESTS ~ THANK YOU Thank you to everyone for your generosity to the collection for Care & Education of Priests. The collection total was $ 369.00.

DIOCESAN APPEAL UPDATE St. Brigid Parish Appeal Goal is $ 23,750.00. Appeal donations total $ 21,802.00. The balance needed to reach our goal is $ 1,948.00.

CONFESSIONS FOR CCD STUDENTS Confessions begin THIS weekend. Children may make their Confession at whichever Mass they attend. Confessions at St. Francis on Saturday begin at 4:00PM. Confessions at St. Francis on Sunday begin at 7:30AM. You can also go immediately following Mass. Confessions at St. Augustine are immediately following Mass. Feb. 16/17 - Confessions for grade 3 & 4; Feb. 23/24 - Confessions for grade 5; March 2/3 - Confessions for grade 6; March 9/10 - Confessions for grade 7; March 16/17 - Confessions for grade 8 thru 12. Parents and CCD teachers are asked to help the children prepare for a good Confession.

FIRST PENANCE First Penance Practice will be Saturday, March 9th, at 11:00AM at St. Francis Church. First Penance will be Saturday, March 16th, at 11:00AM at St. Francis Church.

LENTEN FISH FRY There will be a Lenten Fish Fry to benefit St. Brigid Parish on Friday, March 8th, from 4:30 to 7:00PM, at Neumann Hall. Fish will be baked or fried, macaroni & cheese, coleslaw, beverage and dessert. Cost is $ 8.00. You may either dine in or take-out. Pre-sale tickets will be available after Masses this weekend. Tickets will also be available at the door.

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.

JANUARY FINANCIAL NEWS

Income— $ 17,632.36 Expense— -15,605.02 + 2,027.34

WEEKEND MINISTRY SCHEDULE St. Francis—Feb. 23—4:30PM: Lector—Larry O’Reilly; Servers—Volunteer needed; Rosary—Loretta Guiton St. Francis—Feb. 24—8:00AM: Lector—John Butler; Servers—Curtis & Madeline Spila; Rosary—Alice Carr St. Augustine—Feb. 24—10:30AM: Lector—Jack Kelly; Servers—Emma & Hallie Milligan; Rosary—Ann Zalepa

DECEASED Please pray for those who passed away this week, especially Michele D. Murphy, daughter-in-law of Mrs. Ruth (Walter) Murphy. We also pray for Geraldine Gaulin, the great-aunt of Ben & Alan Nelson. May they rest in peace. Amen. SANCTUARY LIGHTS, ADORATION VIGIL CANDLES & DEVOTIONAL CANDLE DONATIONS

A Devotional Candle at St. Francis burns for a Special Intention requested by Joe Purr. A Devotional Candle at St. Francis burns for a Special Intention.

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

St. Augustine cleaners Feb. 17 to 23 - Elizabeth Demaree; Feb. 24 to March 2 - Barb & Bill Pichette. Volunteers are needed to clean St. Augustine Church. If you can help, call the rectory (553-2288).

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, John Spila, Julia Zangara, Kyle Stoddard, Mary Lou Gregg, Sophie Padula, Madigan Gow, John Flynn, Christine Rothwell, Donald & Theresa Baum, Donnie Butler, Nancy Jellick, Tommy Williams, Stephen & Mary Ann Ambrose, Mary Coyle, Toni Colardino, Linda Hollenback, Mary Bakay, Mary Riley, Jennifer Lynn, Tom Wenman, Tyler Fletcher, Evelyn Palulis, Anna Mae Coleman, Jerry Lynch, Joshua Welch, Richard Hutchinson, John Carr, Roma Laboda, Jean Ryan, Joshua Kaminski, Kathy Holt, Chuck Sidener, Aleisya Abrams, Steve & Catherine Hundiak, Christopher Polk, Mary K. Long, Mary Lou Fahs, Butch Rosencranz, Agnes Neville, Frank Hutchinson, Ruth King, Adaline Williams, George Kotch, Ida Ellis, Molly Penderf, Brooke Arnold, Franny Coleman, Hallie Brooks, Rosemary Boyle, Sarah Murnigahan, Robert Peifer, Evelyn Rounds, Janice Russell, Bill Wilcox, M. M., Carl Miller, Ken Teel, Gene Fox, Walter O’Rourke, Candy Coney, Nathan Dallmann, William Chaney, Bill Cadden, Mary Anna Marbaker, Carol Jones, Mary Cadden, Sue Rathbone, Dick Layton, Sandy Szabo, Nancy Lynch, D. K., Peg Reed, Sue Anderson, Peg Taylor, Theresa Noldy, Ken Roon, June Riley, Debbie Kurpiela, John Bauer, John Osolnick, Judy, Francis Zernone, Ned Offner, Sue Camp, Cody Seymour, Bev Curley, Judy Castner-Bloom, Lyle Oakes, Daniel Gavin, Shawn Burns, Quinn Seymour, and Jim Curley. 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 and Community, Cortney Allen, Christopher Reichlen, Patrick Allen, Jeffrey Evans, Shane Kalpokas, Joshua Arey, Ryan Gormley, Mike Griffith, Daniel Hogan, Roger Raub, Matthew Kramer, Dustin Ryder, Ricky Trowbridge, Bobby Brostoski, Ryan Neville, Anthony Flynn, Adam Nelson, A. Jay Tewksbury, Jennifer Buttacavoli, Jason Raymond, Andrew Muscarelle, Adam Barziloski, Reed Shave, John Matousek, David Teetsel, Lisa Phillips, Carrie Krouse, Ryan Newberry, Wayne M. Bennett, Lukas Crisman, Duane Thomas, Joseph Elliott, Michael & Sean Plitt, Mark W. Gregg, Bradley J. Bryant, Taylor Cain, and all who serve with them. May they all be protected and safe from harm and re-turn home soon to their families and friends. Amen.

PARISH PRAYER CHAIN

If you would like to help respond to prayer requests (for anyone in need-not just parish members), please contact Rosalynd Perlick-Spenser (663-2212), Susie Reichlen (553-2618), or Mary Keenan (553-2431). If you have actual prayer requests, please call anyone on the list and many prayers will be offered for your particular intention.

The Roman Catholic Community of ST. BRIGID PARISH,

(St. Francis Xavier Church, Friendsville, Pa.

and 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.”

2013 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: · Good Friday, March 29th, is a day 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 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.

NEWS FROM THE SCRANTON DIOCESAN COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN The call to fasting and abstinence during Lent is not simply a form of penance but a call for us to take seriously our spiritual lives. Set some spiritual goals that may be carried out not only in Lent but throughout the year such as going to daily Mass when you can and receiving the Sacrament of Confession more often.

POLISH BITTER LAMENTATIONS

Gorzkie Zale, a traditional Polish Bitter Lamentations, will be held Sunday February 24th at 3:00PM at Exaltation of the Holy Cross Church, 420 Main Road, Buttonwood, Hanover Township. Father Kevin Mulhern, Pastor invites everyone to this Lenten Service which will be conducted by Father John Albosta, Father Richard Zavacki, and Father James McGahagan. A light reception will follow in the church hall. For further information or directions, please call 570-823-6242.

SCHEDULE FOR STATIONS OF THE CROSS Tuesday, February 19th—following 8:30AM Mass at St. Augustine Church

Friday, February 22nd—following 12:00NN Mass at St. Francis Church Friday, February 22nd—6:00PM at St. Augustine Church

Stations at St. Augustine continue on Tuesdays following the 8:30AM Mass; Fridays at St. Francis following 12 Noon Mass; and Friday evenings at 6:00PM at St. Augustine Church.

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—Growing Food in Burkina Faso In the small West African nation of Burkina Faso, 80% of the population are farmers. Frequent droughts make it difficult to produce enough food for the entire year. Often, farmers can only grow enough to feed their families for seven months. The rest of the year is called “the hungry season.” This week, we pray for families in Burkina Faso and give to CRS Rice Bowl to help small-scale farmers. 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.

Lent runs from Ash Wednesday until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday.

ADORATION HOURS OPEN AT ST. AUGUSTINE CHURCH! Adoration runs from 5:00AM to Midnight, Monday through Friday. The chapel is closed during inclement weather. If the adorer is sick, going away on a trip or otherwise unable to keep their hour, a substitute will be available to keep it for them. God will bless you, your family and the world a thousand times as

much for this sacrifice of making a holy hour because God cannot be outdone in generosity. All the angels of heaven gaze in ecstasy at the image left on your soul after each holy hour you make in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. (Excerpt from ‘Letters To A Brother Priest’) Sign up sheets are in the pews in both St. Augustine and St. Francis Churches. If you desire to sign up for an hour of Adoration, please place your completed sheet in the collection basket or call Andrea Chen (1-607-669-4875).

FOOD CARDS/FOOD PANTRY EASTER FOOD CARDS: We have a total of (11) 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 & 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.

FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION VIA THE WEINBERG FOOD BANK

This free food distribution for those in need is for RESIDENTS OF SUSQUEHANNA COUNT ONLY. Distribution will be held THIS Tuesday, February 19th, from 11AM to 1PM and 5PM to 7PM, at the Little Meadows United Methodist Church, 843 Penn. Ave. (Route 858), Little Mead-ows, Pa. Any resident of Susquehanna County who needs food is welcome.

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST The Little Meadows Fire Company will hold an all you can eat breakfast at White Tails bar in Little Meadows NEXT Sunday, February 24th, from 7AM to 11AM. Price is $8.00 adult $4.00 children. Benefits the Little Meadows Fire Company. All are welcome to attend and enjoy a delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage gravy with biscuits, pancakes, French toast, home fries and baked goods.

AMERICAN CULTURAL SOCIETY ~ IRISH FAIR An “Irish Fair” will be held NEXT Sunday, February 24th, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Park Ave, in Binghamton, from Noon until 5PM. There will be live music by "The Stoutmen", Irish dancers, food, and Family style fun. Come join us for a great family event.

SHEETS & BLANKETS NEEDED

If you are cleaning out your closet, please consider donating old/used sheets, blankets and “tie” neckties to make sleeping bags for the homeless. Donations can be left in the back of the Churches or dropped off at the Rectory, (leave donations on the porch by the driveway). All donations are most welcome.

Dear Members of St. Brigid Parish, On October 11, 2012, at the invitation of our Holy Father, Benedict XVI, the Church began a celebration of a Year of Faith. Recall the words of the Holy Father that were shared with us when he announced this time of grace: “The Year of Faith is a summons to conversion to the Lord Jesus.” All of the efforts of the Year of Faith are meant to deepen our relationship with Jesus, enabling us to come to know him in a more intimate way and, in so doing, to embrace a life of meaning and purpose that leads to a true and lasting fulfillment and peace in this world and in the next. One of the means to this important end in our lives as Christians is found in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. To make it as easy as possible for every Catholic to experience the grace of this sacrament this year, I have arranged with our priests an initiative to be embraced by every parish of the Diocese of Scranton during the upcoming season of Lent, 2013. Entitled The Light is on for You, this initiative, which has served well in many dioceses throughout the country, will provide the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in all parishes of the Diocese of Scranton at the same time during the weeks of Lent. Beginning on Monday, February 18, 2013 of the First Week of Lent and continuing through Monday, March 25, 2013 of Holy Week, confessions will be heard on each Monday of Lent from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (In St. Brigid Parish confessions will be held at St. Francis Xavier Church.) This initiative is not meant to conflict with regional penance services which have become an important component of Lenten practices for many of our most faithful parishioners. Such services will be planned as usual Please consider participating as fully as possible in this special opportunity, including members of your family and also inviting any others you know who may be hungering for a closer relationship with Christ and a welcome back to His church. Asking God’s blessing on you and on all whose lives intersect with yours. Faithfully yours in Christ,

†Joseph C. Bambera Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L. Bishop of Scranton

2013 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: · Good Friday, March 29th, is a day 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 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.

NEWS FROM THE SCRANTON DIOCESAN COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN The call to fasting and abstinence during Lent is not simply a form of penance but a call for us to take seriously our spiritual lives. Set some spiritual goals that may be carried out not only in Lent but throughout the year such as going to daily Mass when you can and receiving the Sacrament of Confession more often.

POLISH BITTER LAMENTATIONS

Gorzkie Zale, a traditional Polish Bitter Lamentations, will be held Sunday February 24th at 3:00PM at Exaltation of the Holy Cross Church, 420 Main Road, Buttonwood, Hanover Township. Father Kevin Mulhern, Pastor invites everyone to this Lenten Service which will be conducted by Father John Albosta, Father Richard Zavacki, and Father James McGahagan. A light reception will follow in the church hall. For further information or directions, please call 570-823-6242.

SCHEDULE FOR STATIONS OF THE CROSS Tuesday, February 19th—following 8:30AM Mass at St. Augustine Church

Friday, February 22nd—following 12:00NN Mass at St. Francis Church Friday, February 22nd—6:00PM at St. Augustine Church

Stations at St. Augustine continue on Tuesdays following the 8:30AM Mass; Fridays at St. Francis following 12 Noon Mass; and Friday evenings at 6:00PM at St. Augustine Church.

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—Growing Food in Burkina Faso In the small West African nation of Burkina Faso, 80% of the population are farmers. Frequent droughts make it difficult to produce enough food for the entire year. Often, farmers can only grow enough to feed their families for seven months. The rest of the year is called “the hungry season.” This week, we pray for families in Burkina Faso and give to CRS Rice Bowl to help small-scale farmers. 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.

Lent runs from Ash Wednesday until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday.

ADORATION HOURS OPEN AT ST. AUGUSTINE CHURCH! Adoration runs from 5:00AM to Midnight, Monday through Friday. The chapel is closed during inclement weather. If the adorer is sick, going away on a trip or otherwise unable to keep their hour, a substitute will be available to keep it for them. God will bless you, your family and the world a thousand times as

much for this sacrifice of making a holy hour because God cannot be outdone in generosity. All the angels of heaven gaze in ecstasy at the image left on your soul after each holy hour you make in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. (Excerpt from ‘Letters To A Brother Priest’) Sign up sheets are in the pews in both St. Augustine and St. Francis Churches. If you desire to sign up for an hour of Adoration, please place your completed sheet in the collection basket or call Andrea Chen (1-607-669-4875).

FOOD CARDS/FOOD PANTRY EASTER FOOD CARDS: We have a total of (11) 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 & 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.

FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION VIA THE WEINBERG FOOD BANK

This free food distribution for those in need is for RESIDENTS OF SUSQUEHANNA COUNT ONLY. Distribution will be held THIS Tuesday, February 19th, from 11AM to 1PM and 5PM to 7PM, at the Little Meadows United Methodist Church, 843 Penn. Ave. (Route 858), Little Mead-ows, Pa. Any resident of Susquehanna County who needs food is welcome.

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST The Little Meadows Fire Company will hold an all you can eat breakfast at White Tails bar in Little Meadows NEXT Sunday, February 24th, from 7AM to 11AM. Price is $8.00 adult $4.00 children. Benefits the Little Meadows Fire Company. All are welcome to attend and enjoy a delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage gravy with biscuits, pancakes, French toast, home fries and baked goods.

AMERICAN CULTURAL SOCIETY ~ IRISH FAIR An “Irish Fair” will be held NEXT Sunday, February 24th, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Park Ave, in Binghamton, from Noon until 5PM. There will be live music by "The Stoutmen", Irish dancers, food, and Family style fun. Come join us for a great family event.

SHEETS & BLANKETS NEEDED

If you are cleaning out your closet, please consider donating old/used sheets, blankets and “tie” neckties to make sleeping bags for the homeless. Donations can be left in the back of the Churches or dropped off at the Rectory, (leave donations on the porch by the driveway). All donations are most welcome.

Dear Members of St. Brigid Parish, On October 11, 2012, at the invitation of our Holy Father, Benedict XVI, the Church began a celebration of a Year of Faith. Recall the words of the Holy Father that were shared with us when he announced this time of grace: “The Year of Faith is a summons to conversion to the Lord Jesus.” All of the efforts of the Year of Faith are meant to deepen our relationship with Jesus, enabling us to come to know him in a more intimate way and, in so doing, to embrace a life of meaning and purpose that leads to a true and lasting fulfillment and peace in this world and in the next. One of the means to this important end in our lives as Christians is found in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. To make it as easy as possible for every Catholic to experience the grace of this sacrament this year, I have arranged with our priests an initiative to be embraced by every parish of the Diocese of Scranton during the upcoming season of Lent, 2013. Entitled The Light is on for You, this initiative, which has served well in many dioceses throughout the country, will provide the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in all parishes of the Diocese of Scranton at the same time during the weeks of Lent. Beginning on Monday, February 18, 2013 of the First Week of Lent and continuing through Monday, March 25, 2013 of Holy Week, confessions will be heard on each Monday of Lent from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (In St. Brigid Parish confessions will be held at St. Francis Xavier Church.) This initiative is not meant to conflict with regional penance services which have become an important component of Lenten practices for many of our most faithful parishioners. Such services will be planned as usual Please consider participating as fully as possible in this special opportunity, including members of your family and also inviting any others you know who may be hungering for a closer relationship with Christ and a welcome back to His church. Asking God’s blessing on you and on all whose lives intersect with yours. Faithfully yours in Christ,

†Joseph C. Bambera Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L. Bishop of Scranton