St. Joseph Giving Tree Update

OUR GIVING TREE


The Giving Tree is in church . To donate a gift:

Even if you don't have a gift tag, you may bring in gift unwrapped or just in a bag. We especially need toys such as dolls, baby toys, basketballs, soccer balls, as well as items for teens.

Return gifts Sunday, December 16th by 12 noon.

Immaculate Conception and Advent Reconciliation

Children and Youth Choirs Last Chance!!

CHILDREN’S CHOIR AND YOUTH CHOIR


LAST CHANCE TO SIGN UP!



The Children’s Choir is for ages approximately 6-12 and will sing at the 4:00 p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve December 24th.

Rehearsals: Saturdays December 15 & 22  9:30 to 11:30 a.m.



The Youth Choir (for singers and instrumentalists) is for ages 13 and up. They will be joining members of “Trinity” for the 6:30 p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve December 24th.

Rehearsals: December 9 and December 23rd

10:15 to 11:15 a.m.

Wednesday December 19th

7:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Please contact Leslie Frost at 973-761-5933 Ext. 17

or email her at lfrost@stjosephmaplewood.org

50/50 Raffle Coming Soon!!!

SUPPORT OUR PARISH FUND RAISER


Who wouldn’t like some extra cash for Christmas? Time is running out to purchase your 50/50 tickets where your chance of winning is even better than with a Powerball Ticket!   This fundraiser helps to generate the necessary funds which are needed to cover our operating expenses. 
Please help to support all of our parish fundraisers!

Drawing Date:

NEXT Sunday, December 16 at 12:30 p.m.

Please return tickets to the Parish Office; or drop them off in the collection basket on Sunday;

or to any of the Fundraiser Committee Members at the SCRIP Table.

CYO BASKETBALL FOOD DRIVE

The players and coaches from the St. Joseph CYO Basketball teams are once again doing their annual service project to help re-stock the food pantries at both St. Joseph and Our Lady of Sorrows.  Parishioners and friends can help their cause by making a donation online at www.yougivegoods.com/CYOBasketall

A GREAT WAY TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS

The Friday morning sharing group has been praying for the success of our parish and our people for a number of years.  We open at 6:30 a.m. in Bernard Hall (Enter through the first door in the Courtyard)  We pray and share from 6:45 a.m. for 30 minutes, when everyone goes on their way, to start a new day.

Come down and take part in a great way to support our parish community through prayer.  We pray for the needs of our parish, each other and the community at large.  We invite you to take part on any Friday, especially during Advent.  As is the case for most of us, you may find that you get far more out of it than you put in!

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY TO MEET


Thursday, December 6th

12:30 p.m. in rectory meeting room

Bring your shawls, bring a friend!

SAVE THE DATE

VOLUNTEER WORK DAY

Our next volunteer parish build day is Saturday, December 15th. All volunteers are asked to register online at http://www.habitatnewark.org/volunteer_construction.html It’s easy and more convenient! If you would like to carpool or have any questions, contact Gail Laughlin at 973-313-0055 or by email at glaughlin1@gmail.com .

St. Joseph Giving Tree

OUR GIVING TREE

The Giving Tree is in church beginning this weekend. To donate a gift:

 please select a tag from the tree

purchase your gift

securely tape the tag to the outside of the gift

bring in gift unwrapped or just in a bag.



You may return gifts at any time before Sunday, December 16th, after which they will be distributed to families in need, including those served by the Food Pantry at our sister parish of St Mary, Newark. Let’s not disappoint those who have requested gifts. Advent is a wonderful time to be thinking of others as Jesus taught us:

“Whatsoever you do for others, you do unto me.”







Compassionate Sharing

Compassionate Sharing


Coffee Conversation and Support

For those who have lost a loved one

Come and share an hour with others who are on the journey toward healing



Members of the Ministry of Compassion cordially invite you to come

Sunday, December 2nd at 10:00 a.m.

in the rectory meeting room.
St. Joseph Church
767 Prospect St.
Maplewood. NJ 07040

OPEN ARMS TO MEET

OPEN ARMS


Open Arms is a welcoming spirituality group for gay and lesbian Catholics and their families and friends. We will have a special meeting for Advent on Sunday, December 9, at 5:00 pm, with scripture discussion and fellowship to help us all prepare for Christmas. For more information, please contact Dugan McGinley at dmcginley@stjosephmaplewood.org.

OLD CHRISTMAS TREES

OLD CHRISTMAS TREES


If you plan to discard your gently used artificial Christmas Tree, please donate it to St. Joseph Church. We will have a good use of it during this Christmas season. We will appreciate if you can deliver it to the church beginning today until the second week of December. Please call Fr. Manolo at 973-761-5933 or email at tomasino401@yahoo.com.

Christmas Music for the littlest ones!

CHRISTMAS MUSIC FOR LITTLE ONES


SING, DANCE, PLAY INSTRUMENTS and MORE
while we explore the story of Baby Jesus’ birth!

St. Joseph Parish is pleased to offer a music experience for our youngest parishioners from birth through five years of age and their parent or caregiver. Unlike other music education programs, this class is faith inclusive as it explores music of the seasons in an age-appropriate way. We use instruments, toys, and scarves to dance, chant, sing, play games, and pray together. Two CDs and a songbook are included in the tuition. Please email faith@stjosephmaplewood.org to receive more information about our schedule.

For information about music for little ones, see website:

www.makingmusicprayingtwice.com Type in your zip code!

Youth Choir Christmas Eve Mass

FOR 6:30 P.M. CHRISTMAS EVE MASS



YOUTH MUSICIANS (Ages 13 and up)

Music is an integral part of liturgical worship and a prayerful response to the worship experience. Serving in music ministry is a special way of praising God.

We are organizing an opportunity for PARISH YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS to participate in the 6:30 p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve. with members of “Trinity” We are looking for singers and instrumentalists, and all levels are welcome.

Rehearsals will be starting soon, so please contact Leslie Frost at

973- 761- 5933 Ext. 17 or lfrost@stjosephmaplewood.org.

FOR 4:00 P.M. CHRISTMAS EVE MASS


The Children’s Choir of St. Joseph Parish welcomes all interested children of ages approx. 6-12. Our Children’s Choir is a wonderful way for children to participate in Mass and contribute to the parish.  Choir members will not only be actively participating in the development and expression of their faith, they will also be introduced to the world of music.  

Rehearsals: Our first rehearsal will be Saturday, December 8th , 10:00– 11:00 a.m. Remaining rehearsals will be Saturday, December 15th and 22nd, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the church. For further information, please contact Leslie Frost by email at lfrost@stjosephmaplewood.org or 973-761-5933 Ext. 17.

ST. JOSEPH EVENTS AFFECTED BY STORM

Year of Faith Session 3 will be held this Sunday at 10:00 a.m. in Bernard Hall.



Religious Education and Youth Group will resume this Sunday at their regular times and locations.



Bereavement Group will meet next on Sunday, December 2.



Women’s Cornerstone will meet on next Tuesday, November 13.



Our Thanksgiving Food Drive is still underway.



ALL OTHER EVENTS CANCELLED BY THE STORM HAVE NOT BE RE-SCHEDULED.

RESPECT LIFE HOLY HOUR

FIRST FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2012

and every First Friday of each month

We will offer a Holy Hour of Prayer for Life.  It will take place in St. Joseph Church, 767 Prospect St. Maplewood, NJ 07040, from 7:30-9:30 p.m..  All are invited!

You're Invited

The Children of Grade 3

  cordially invite you

to attend an

  All Saints Prayer Service Sunday, October 28

  at 10:45 a.m. in the Church

All children [except for third grade] report to the school cafeteria at 10:00 a.m. as usual to meet with their class and will go to church for the prayer service with their catechists.

Dismissal next Sunday will be from Bernard Hall.

Women Save the Date!

Advent By Candlelight Evening for Women

Sunday, November 25
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Bernard Hall (St. Joseph Church 767 Prospect St. Maplewood, NJ)

To reserve a table please contact Liz Petroccia at 973-763-4053 or lpetroccia@msn.com

OUR PARISH FOOD PANTRY SHELVES ARE BARE!

Please help restock them! We almost ran short last Saturday. Like other local pantries, we are struggling to help families and seniors in need. You may borrow a St. Joseph Church Reusable Bag for your donation shopping, or pack it in a supermarket bag, but bring in what you can. Jesus tells us to help his people who are hungry or thirsty. (Matthew 25:35) So, would you be able to raid your own shelves or make a family field trip to the supermarket and help us reach out to people in need?

Always needed are: canned vegetables, soups, stews, tuna, beans, rice, pasta, sauce, juice, cereals, peanut butter, jelly... Special requests for Thanksgiving include Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce, Gravy, Boxed Potatoes, Canned Yams, etc.

We need these on or before November 11th.

Return bag and donated items to the church this week any day the church is open. Donations may be left in the church vestibule. THANK YOU for your ongoing generosity!

Donate a turkey to our Thanksgiving Food Pantry



Thursday, Nov 15th

Turkey Drop-off 5:00-7:00p.m.


Volunteer your time:

Monday, November 12th Sort Night 7-8 p.m.

Thursday, November 15th Pack Night 7-8 p.m.

Saturday, Nov 17th Food Pantry Saturday 10-11 a.m.



If you would like to donate a complete family dinner, please call Lynne at 908 656-1436 or, better still, email her at mlblaesser@aol.com.

TRIPLE BENEFIT...CHECK THIS OUT!

Here is a great way to save on your grocery bills, fill ups at the pump and help your parish! Now Stop & Shop turns every dollar you spend into gas reward points. And you can make your purchases with a Stop & Shop Gift Card that you get from one of our volunteers. Check out Stop & Shop’s website for more information: www.stopandshop.com/savings/shell_program. Supermarket Gift Cards are also available for Shop-Rite, Pathmark, Kings, Whole Foods and Stop & Shop at our sales table in back of church. As always, thank you for your ongoing support for this important fundraiser for our parish.

Join Fr. Manolo on Trip to Holyland

WHERE JESUS WALKED




A Holy Land Pilgrimage / Retreat

...making the Bible a living experience

as we trace the footsteps of God!



with

Rev. JM Manolo A. Punzalan, STL

November 18-26, 2013

RESERVE A SPACE NOW! BOOK EARLY & SAVE!

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SAVE THE DATES!

SAVE THE DATES!!


Our next volunteer parish build days are Saturday, November 17th, and Saturday, December 15th. Watch the bulletin and listen for announcements from the pulpit for more information.

COME TO FIND OUT WHERE THE CHURCH IS GOING

50 YEARS SINCE VATICAN II




Some of us lived through these years. For others, the Second Vatican Council is an historical event. Either way, there is a great story to be told about what this Council was and how it changed the Church.



The person to tell this story is Msgr. Robert J Wister who teaches at Immaculate Conception Seminary. Generations of students for the priesthood and lay ministry will testify that he is a great teacher who conveys knowledge and analyses of Church matters local and global with a witty sense of humor. He has boldly agreed to try and predict where the Church may be heading over the next 50 years… So, come and find out what he sees in our future: this is a presentation you will not want to miss!



Sunday, October 14th

10:15 – 11:15 in Bernard Hall

Breakfast included Everyone is welcome!



This Year of Faith event is sponsored by the joint Holy Name Society of St. Joseph Parish and Our Lady of Sorrows and co-sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Council 4066.

INVITATION FOR LITURGICAL MINISTERS

If you are a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, Leader of Liturgy of the Word with children, Music Minster, or an Usher, mark your calendars for a special opportunity to renew your ministry.



On Saturday, October 27, we will gather for Mass at 9:00 a.m; with a special blessing and re-commissioning of all those who assist in making our liturgies come alive. This will be followed by refreshments, with a brief presentation and a chance for fellowship with one another. The morning will conclude with training for new ministers and updates for everyone. Please come if you are part of these ministries. If you are not already a liturgical minister, please think about becoming one. Contact Dugan McGinley at the rectory for more information

COMPASSIONATE SHARING GROUP

Compassionate Sharing

Coffee, Conversation and Support For those who have lost a loved one.

Come and share an hour with others who are on the journey toward healing.

Members of the Ministry of Compassion cordially invite you to come

Sunday, October 7th at 10:00 a.m.

in the Rectory Meeting Room, 767 Prospect Street, Maplewood

PICNIC 2012 THANK YOU!

We thank God for wonderful weather last Sunday. We commend the wonderful job of our volunteers especially the chairpersons of the various committees. Thank God for wonderful and supportive parishioners. Your dedication to St. Joseph Parish is very much appreciated! Every detail of the picnic was organized and flowed smoothly! Our parish picnic was a huge success! The event brought together different groups of parishioners. There was plenty of food, fun and joy for all! It was really a day to be happy about! You made it happen and we are so profoundly grateful!



Photos of the ST. JOSEPH PARISH FAMILY PICNIC 2012



https:picasaweb.google.com/103869731435397300466/2012STJOSEPHPARISHFAMILYPICNICTHEGRAYPICNIC

ST. JOSEPH ROSARY SOCIETY TO MEET

The St. Joseph Rosary Society will meet Monday evening, October 1st at 7:30 p.m. in the Rectory Meeting Room. Hostesses for the meeting are Margaret Coughlin and Grace McGrath.

WOMEN'S CORNERSTONE REUNION

Wednesday, October 17, 2012


7:00 p.m. , Bernard Hall

If you have attended Women’s Cornerstone Retreat 1, 2 or 3 you are invited to attend this gathering. Keep the light burning! Refreshments will be served. Call Judy Cronin 973-763-5070 or email judymcronin@gmail.com for more information.

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Please note that in observance of Columbus Day, October 8th the parish office will be closed.  There will only be one Mass celebrated that day at 9:00 a.m.  The Rainbow Seniors will not meet that day

WHAT IS LITURGICAL MINISTRY?

The word liturgy literally means “work of the people.” Here at St. Joseph Parish, we put a lot of effort into making our liturgies the best worship experiences they can be. The Mass could not “happen” without various roles being filled by Parishioners like you!

The Church calls all of us to full, active and conscious participation in the liturgy and so at this time we are looking for you to join one of the many liturgical ministries. Training will be provided, be watching the bulletin for details.

Some of the ministries are:

Eucharistic Ministers: assist in distributing Communion at Mass and also in bringing Communion to the sick and homebound.

Lectors: Proclaim the word of God by reading from the scriptures at Mass.

Liturgy of the Word with Children: Proclaim the word of God to our youngest parishioners.

Music: Singers and Musicians of all levels are welcome.

Ushers: Provide welcoming hospitality to all. Assist in taking up the weekly collection.



If you would like to explore how you can help, please contact Dugan McGinley at the rectory.

PREPARING CHILDREN FOR FIRST EUCHARIST AND FIRST RECONCILIATION

We invite children of the parish to prepare for and celebrate these two sacraments once they have reached at least the age of seven and have completed one year or more of religious instruction (in a Catholic school or our parish Religious Education program.) The program begins with a meeting for parents of eligible children on Wednesday, October 3rd by invitation only.



Children attending our K-8 Sunday Program will automatically receive an invitation letter if eligible.



If your child attends a Catholic school outside this parish, please call the rectory early this week for information about preparing for First Communion here.

NEW HOLY HOUR FOR LIFE

Beginning this fall, we will offer a Holy Hour of prayer for life on the first Friday of every month. Led by Deacon John Florio, it will take place in the church from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Our first night will be on this Friday, October 5, 2012.

Holy Name Society Fall Speakers Series

HOLY NAME SOCIETY FALL SPEAKERS SERIES


Beginning Sunday, September 16

at Our Lady of Sorrows Church South Orange



The national election is drawing ever so close. In keeping with that theme, Terry Golway, author, journalist, professor and OLS parishioner will present a non-partisan look at the state of our political dialogue. Please join us for this most timely presentation and discussion. The September presentation will take place at Our Lady of Sorrows lower church immediately after the 8:00 a.m. Mass. A light breakfast will be served.

The next session will be at St. Joseph Church.  Watch for details.

Food Pantry Help Wanted

Are you looking for a way to help needy families right here in our neighborhood? The St. Joseph Food Pantry supplies seniors and other needy families with food each month. Help is needed in sorting the food, packing in bags and also distributing the food to our recipients. Sort night is Monday, September 17, and Pack night is Thursday, September 20 at 7:00 p.m. in the Food Pantry house on 245 Hilton Ave. Distribution is Saturday, September 22 at 10:00 a.m. Please consider helping at one or more of these times.

Making Music Praying Twice

Are you interested in a music and movement program for your infant and/or pre-schooler?  St. Joseph Parish is pleased to offer a music experience for our youngest parishioners (from birth to five years of age) and their parent or caregiver.  Unlike other music programs, this class is faith inclusive as it explores the seasons in an age-appropriate way.  We use instruments, toys, and scarves to dance, chant, sing, play games and pray together.
Registration is now open for the fall session.  More information and forms are available in the Church racks at the doors to the church.

St. Joseph Parish offers


Compassionate Sharing

Coffee, Conversation and Support

for those who have lost a loved one



Come and share an hour with others

who are on the journey toward healing



Members of the Ministry of Compassion

cordially invite you to come

Sunday, September 9th at 10:00 am

in the Rectory Meeting Room

767 Prospect Street, Maplewood

DO YOU FEEL CALLED TO SERVE?

Have you ever thought about helping St. Joseph Church by serving as a liturgical minister? The Mass could not “happen” without various roles being filled by parishioners like you! We are always in need of more lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, singers, musicians, altar servers, ushers, greeters, coordinators. The summer is a good time to think about how you might give of your time and talent to make our Liturgies ever more meaningful and participatory. In most cases, all that is required is a short training session and a sincere desire to serve God’s people. We will be taking on new ministers in the fall and would love for you to join us. If you would like to explore how you can help, contact Dugan McGinley at the rectory.

Looking For Music Ministry Members

As August winds down, it’s a good time to start thinking about ways to become more involved during the coming year. Are you interested in sharing your talent in our parish music ministry? We can always use more singers, both in Trinity for the 9:00 a.m. Mass (rehearse Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m.) and for the choir at the 11:30 a.m. Mass (rehearse Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m.). We also are looking for additional musicians who would like to share their talent with our parish. If you play drums, flute, violin, trumpet, woodwinds, brass or other, we would especially love to expand our music ministry to include more instruments. Join us for rehearsal this week, September 5-6. Enter the church through the side door on Hilton Ave. If you would like more information, please contact Dugan McGinley at the rectory.

Holiday Schedule

PLEASE NOTE HOLIDAY SCHEDULE


Due to the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 3rd, there will only be one Mass celebrated at 9:00 a.m. The Parish Office will be closed and the Rainbow Seniors will not be meeting.

Save the Date St. Joseph Family Picnic

Sunday, September 23, 2012
1-5 pm
Maplecrest Park, Maplewood
Rain location Bernard Hall

Order your Gray picnic shirts now!  Only $12.00 sizes youth small thru adult 3XL.  Free admission just bring a dish to share!  Fun for all ages.

CYO Basketball Registration

Boys and Girls in Grades 2 through 12 who are registered students in the parish Religious Education program, High School Youth Group or attend a local Catholic School are invited to play CYO Basketball. Teams will practice and play games at St. Joseph’s Parish Gym from October to March. Registration
has begun and will conclude by October 1. Additional adult volunteers are needed to be coaches for some teams. Contact Gerry O’Connor, St. Joseph’s Parish Athletic Director, at 201-341-4289 or stjosephcyobb@aol.com, with any questions or to volunteer. Additional information can be found on the St. Joseph’s CYO Basketball web site at

http://www.eteamz.comstjosephcelticscyobasketball/

St. Joseph Homilies Available

You can hear or share a homily that has touched you by visiting our parish website. The homilies of our priests are recorded on a weekly basis, and are available for downloading. Just log onto www.stjosephmaplewood.org and click “hearing’ then select the podcast download for the week you want to hear

LOOKING FOR SINGERS

As August winds down, it’s a good time to start thinking about ways to become more involved during the coming year. Are you interested in sharing your vocal talent in our parish music ministry? We can always use more singers, both in Trinity for the 9:00 a.m. Mass (rehearse Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m.) and for the choir at the 11:30 a.m. Mass (rehearse Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m.). We will begin again the first week of September. If you would like more information, please contact Dugan McGinley at the rectory.

CYO GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

St Joseph’s CYO is exploring the idea of joining the Archdiocese of Newark CYO Girls Volleyball League. We are looking for adults who are interested in organizing and coaching teams made up of parishioners from both St. Joseph’s and OLS. This fall league will consist of girls from the 4th to 8th grades. Anyone interested in coaching should contact Gerry O’Connor at stjosephcyobb@aol.com or by phone at 201-341-4289.

FAITH FORMATION FOR ALL AGES

FAITH FORMATION FOR ALL AGES For Children in Grades K to 8 Our Sunday morning program of instruction for those not attending Catholic School will open on September 23rd for the 2012-2013 year. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back and to meeting new students. To be placed in a class in time for this first session, children need to be registered by September 4th. New families are invited to call the Rectory this week for more information. The special schedule for opening day and a calendar for the year is mailed on or around Labor Day to all registered families. For Adults We have received several inquiries from adults interested in preparing for Sacraments or learning more about the teachings of the Church. Please feel free to call the rectory for more information about updating your faith or becoming a Catholic. Informal inquiries are always welcome. For Children at Sunday Mass Liturgy of the Word with Children is a special time with the Scriptures which will resume in September during 9:00 a.m. Mass. We are looking forward to gathering the children again to hear and talk about God’s word. As usual, there will be two groups, one for those in First Grade and above, the other for pre-schoolers old enough to cooperate in our Pray and Play session. Parents are welcome to visit and pray with their children who return to their pews in time for the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Pre-registration is not required for this worship experience.

I'M 55 +...WHAT DO I DO NOW????

New Jersey professionals age 55+ with skills, talent and generosity of spirit can make a social impact and reinvest a career’s worth of experience towards serving a non-profit or public institution. ReServe in Newark matches continuing professionals ages 55+ with rewarding part-time service opportunities at nonprofit organizations and public institutions in order to strengthen their communities. These opportunities allow you to serve your community while also earning a stipend. Questions??? Learn more at www.reserveinc.org/newark. Contact us at 973-596-6400 Ext. 124 or email us at Newark@reserveinc.org

THANK YOU FROM THE IHN TEAM

A huge thank you to all of the St. Joseph's parishioners and volunteers who made our Interfaith Hospitality Hosting a huge success from July 8th through the 22nd. Your generous donations through our Giving Tree, and the gifts of your time, through our various committees made IHN hosting happen here at St. Joseph. We had five families pass through our doors during these two weeks. One family signed a lease for permanent housing! Another family is not far behind in doing so. What did St. Joseph Parish do? We created a "home" for five families and supported them as treasured guests. Each family had their own private space created by our set up crew. Our guests felt the love! St. Joseph volunteers prepared and served forty-two meals; washed countless loads of laundry; played games with kids for at least twenty-hours; stayed overnight as hosts; talked; laughed, smiled and even cried. St. Joseph’s parishioners gave hope and we received joy! We made a difference in the lives of these families. This Parish ministry is not small by any means, and it would not have happened without the full support of the parishioners of St. Joseph Church. Our hats are off to you for your support and love. You all were the hands and feet of our Lord. We fed the hungry, clothed the poor, and gave shelter to the very least of us. May God Bless you all!

BRIDGES "RUN"

A Bridges food outreach Run to Penn Station to feed the homeless is scheduled for Saturday, August 25th from approximately 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A “Run” is the outreach visit to our street sheltered friends where we distribute bagged lunches/breakfast, new and gently used clothing, toiletries and other necessities. Equally important, it is an opportunity for volunteers from housed communities to meet friends living on the street and in shelters to share time, fellowship and smiles. All Run volunteers must be in high school or older. If under 18 you must be accompanied by a parent. A sign-up sheet is in the back of church on the bulletin board outside the Children’s Chapel. We are limited to 12 people so put your name on the list right away! Please contact Don Blaesser at 973-986-3521 if you have any questions.

Calling all Parish Parents!

CALLING ALL PARISH PARENTS It’s time to make plans for the fall! Our parish offers a K-8 program of Religious Education on Sunday mornings for all children not enrolled in a Catholic school. This formal instruction is designed to support parents in raising their children in the practice of the faith we share. Kindergarten is optional but children are expected to participate from first grade through grade 8, at which point they will be invited to prepare for Confirmation. This ongoing formation in faith offers a variety of Christ-centered experiences and a rich curriculum. We invite families to contact the rectory for more information, including special needs options and individualized catch up plans. Please call 973-761-5933. Registration for September should be arranged now. Please note that preparation for First Communion begins only after completing at least one year of religious education background. We extend an invitation to parents of enrolled children who are eligible and this sacramental preparation also begins in early fall.

Car Needed

Fr. Eustace is looking to buy a used Toyota Camry to be sent to a needy priest in Africa, for missionary work of evangelization. Please call the Parish Office if you have one or know of someone who does. Call 973 761 5933 and let us know. Thank you!

Habitat for Humanity New Information

Our next volunteer parish build day is Saturday, August 4th. A sign-up sheet is in back of church on the bulletin board outside the Children's Chapel. The tentative work site is 359 Lafayette St. in Newark. You will receive a follow up call the week of the build. For more information, email or call Gail Laughlin at glaughlin1@gmail.com or 973-313-0055.

Interfaith Hospitality Network Update

SHELTERING FAMILIES, BUILDING COMMUNITY Our IHN guests are midway through the two weeks of their stay with us and we thank everyone who has worked so hard to prepare and to provide for the four families in need of shelter who have come to us for a temporary place to stay. The Interfaith Hospitality Network unites across Essex County to give these and other parents a place to stay while working to secure permanent housing for themselves and their children. We were delighted that one of our anticipated families did not need our shelter because they found a home of their own just last weekend! Instead, we have welcomed a mother and her daughters into a safe, home-like place in Bernard Hall. Our wonderful volunteers and donors make it possible for us to offer three meals a day, help with laundry and arrange activities for the children. Yet, there is ‘no place like home,’ so we pray that all of our guests will soon secure permanent housing and leave the network with good memories of the support they received in a difficult time of their lives. If you would like to help during this second week or with clean up next Sunday, please call Suzanne Ryan at 973-761-7083.

REACHING OUT MAKING A DIFFERENCE

REACHING OUT ~ MAKING A DIFFERENCE! What difference can two cents make? It can have a huge impact when we put our money together as a parish and create a Tithing Fund for Others. Look below at the amount donated last week! Two percent of our Sunday offering is set aside each week: two cents out of every dollar you give. Our individual contributions joined together have helped local efforts to feed the hungry, give shelter to people who are homeless, facilitate contact with immigrants held in detention, and provide emergency relief. Our parish community has also reached out across the oceans to help the poor and vulnerable in Haiti, Nigeria and the Philippines. Thank you for your generous hearts! We began the Tithing Fund for Others two years ago this week. A committee of parishioners actively engaged in social justice ministries has worked with the pastor to select ways of using this fund to make a difference in Jesus’ name. The resulting donations by our community are reported to you as they occur, and we have received touching letters of appreciation from the recipient groups. For the month of July, 2% of your Sunday offering will be given to BACKPACK PALS to feed children who go hungry on weekends when school nutrition programs are closed. Let’s think of them as we make our offering at Mass this month and let’s keep this organization in our prayers, remembering all those who volunteer time for the cause we are supporting through our Tithing Fund .

FOOD PANTRY HELP WANTED

FOOD PANTRY HELP WANTED Make A Difference! There are many ways to make a difference in the fight against hunger. Volunteer opportunities range from sorting and packing food in our distribution center to lending a hand delivering to seniors. The St. Joseph Food Pantry is an outreach program to our needy families around the parish. Our mission is to help a caring community share its food resources. We act as a as a food warehouse and a front-line agency assisting those struggling to make ends meet and work with other agencies that assist people in need. Your assistance is always welcome. The next sort night is Monday, July 16, and packing night Thursday, July 19 at 7:00p.m. Delivery day is Saturday, July 21 at 10:00 a.m. Meet at the Food Pantry house located at 241 Hilton Ave. Maplewood. 

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Our next volunteer parish build day is Saturday, August 4th. Be a part of the Habitat Mission…watch the bulletin and listen to the weekly announcements after Mass for more sign-up information or call Gail Laughlin (973-313-0055).

Children's Liturgy of the Word

IT IS SUMMER HIATUS TIME for our parish LITURGY OF THE WORD WITH CHILDREN and PRE-SCHOOL PRAY & PLAY But we will be back in early September! WOULD YOU PRAYERFULLY CONSIDER HELPING TO LEAD A FEW OF THESE SESSIONS? We would like to add to our group of leaders when we resume Liturgy of the Word with Children in September. Aides and Team Leaders are also needed for our tots in Pre-School Pray & Play. This is a wonderful way to share a faith experience with the youngest members of our parish. Sessions are based on materials designed for volunteer leaders. We encourage you to think about offering your talent! Please call 973 761 5933 to let us know you are interested. Please call the rectory 973-761-5933 to let us know if you are interested.

ARCHBISHOP'S ANNUAL APPEAL UPDATE

To date we have reached $30,971.00 of our Archbishop’s Annual Appeal goal of $45,610.00. So far 136 of our 1,000 parishioners have made a pledge or gift. If the remaining 864 could each make a $16.00 gift we would meet our goal and RECEIVE A REBATE! Our rebate will be used right here at St. Joseph’s to fund our many parish ministries and projects. Last year it only took 191 donors to make our goal. We can do it together! Envelopes are in the church, or checks can be made out to the Archbishop/s Annual Appeal.

Holy Ghost Father's to visit St. Joseph

HOLY GHOST FATHERS (IRISH PROVINCE) TO VISIT ST. JOSEPH JULY 28-29 The Holy Ghost Fathers are an International Missionary Society, one of the largest Missionary Congregations in the Church. They are responsible, in large part, for the evangelization of many African people in countries such as Ghana, Liberia, Angola, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania and Malawi. Some of our missionaries are working in very tense and difficult situations, especially in war ravaged countries. The Holy Ghost Fathers are involved in all kinds of missionary activities from pastoral ministry to educational work at all levels, to the training of native clergy to social and agricultural work. The Holy Ghost Fathers also have missions in Asia and South America. In recent years they have even begun to work in China. The Holy Ghost Fathers are grateful for your prayers and continued support.

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE JULY 4th

There will only be one Mass celebrated on Wednesday, July 4th at 9:00 a.m. The office will be closed in observance of our national holiday, Independence Day.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS TO MEET

REGINA PACIS COUNCIL #4066 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS The NEXT meeting of Regina Pacis Council will be on Monday, June 25th, 2012 at 8:00 pm, at the Council Home. This will be the last meeting for Grand Knight Bob Spangenberg. He will be turning over the gavel to our new Grand Knight David Luciano and his new officers. Please come and show your support for these members.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR ROE REED SATURDAY, JUNE 30 10:00 A.M. Come celebrate the life of our good friend and fellow parishioner Rosalie Reed at a memorial service here at St. Joseph Church. All are invited!

St. Joseph Ongoing Fundraiser

Youth Group News 6/19/2012

The Youth Group will meet Sunday, June 24th for our final meeting/dinner of the year. We are meeting at the Applebees Restaurant at 1721 Morris Ave. in Union from 7:00-9:00 p.m. For more information about our activities please email our youth minister Tom Berrios at tomberrios@hotmail.com

SUMMER MUSIC CAMP

SUMMER MUSIC CAMP FOR K, PRE-K AND BABIES JUNE 25-29 10am-11:30 a.m. Start summer with a happy week of music and song! The Making Music Summer Camp was a great success last year and filled up early. So, we are offering it again, the week of June 25th, and perhaps again in July. Please let us know soon if you are interested. Sessions run from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. including snack and social time. This is your chance to try a hands-on music experience at a summer discount! Only $35 , including a music CD and songbook – that is just five dollars a day for a week of fun. Children attend with a parent or caregiver and together use instruments, toys, and scarves to dance, sing, chant, pray, and play games with new friends. Enrollment will be limited so please email jleitner@stjosephmaplewood.org or call 973-761-5933 ext. 24 for more details.

Youth Group News 6/7/2012

YOUTH GROUP NEWS We will be meeting this evening June 10th from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. in the youth room in Bernard Hall. We are planning our annual summer trips, so be sure to stop by. For more information about our youth ministry activities please email our youth minister Tom Berrios at tomberrios@hotmail.com

New to the Community????

NEW TO THE COMMUNITY? Welcome! We are a parish which believes in lifelong faith formation. Watch this bulletin for details of adult opportunities to grow in faith as well as prepare for sacraments. It’s never too late. If you have children in an elementary school that is not a Catholic school, we invite you to enroll your children, grades K to 8, in our Sunday morning Religious Education program. Classes resume in September, but registration is underway now. Please call 973-761-5933 or email faith@stjosephmaplewood.org and someone will be in touch.

Wherever you Go...

WHEREVER YOU GO… … The Lord is with you. To locate the nearest church try 1-800 MASSTIMES or search online at www.masstimes.org. Find a Catholic Church anywhere in the world.

Open Arms Barbeque

Open Arms is a spirituality group for gay and lesbian Catholics and our families and friends. Are you a gay or lesbian Catholic who is looking for a parish family? A parent of a gay son or daughter looking for the warm embrace of fellow Catholics? A friend or sibling who just wants to be supportive? If any of these situations sound even a little bit like you, we hope you will plan to join us for a barbeque on Saturday, June 9th following the 5:30 p.m. Mass in the rectory. If you would like more information please contact Dugan McGinley at dmcginley@stj osephmaplewood.org.

Congratulations on Success of Rummage Sale

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RUMMAGE SALE COMMITTEE Last weekend’s, 5th Annual Rummage Sale generated over $5,000 for the parish programs! Congratulations to Ernie D’Amato, Rosa Aiello and their entire committee, who worked so hard, literally day and night, to bring the sale to such a success! Thanks also to John and Eileen, the owners of our local business Bee and Thistle Antiques for their donations of new items for sale every year!

ST. JOSEPH FOOD PANTRY DATES

If you are interested in helping at the St. Joseph Food Pantry, the next sort night is Monday, June 11, and pack night is Thursday, June 13. Our volunteers meet both evenings at 7:00 p.m. in the house at 241 Hilton Ave. Your help in delivering to seniors at Nora Gardens is always welcome on the third Saturday of the month. The next delivery date is Saturday, June 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Faith Formation for all Ages

FAITH FORMATION FOR ALL AGES How can we help you? Our Parish offers you a variety of opportunities to grow in faith and prepare for sacraments. This is a good time to inquire about your own needs as an adult or on behalf of your children. Sessions are forming for this fall. The RCIA process will prepare adults for Baptism, Confirmation and/or Communion. Inquiries are also welcome from baptized Christians who would like to join the Catholic Church. The Religious Education Program will hold classes for those in grades K to 8 who do not attend a Catholic school (and these are a pre-requisite for children’s First Communion or Confirmation.) This program is open to children with special needs. Enrollment for sacramental preparation (First Reconciliation and First Communion) will begin in the fall for eligible children in grade 2 or above. Faith updates are encouraged for adults of all ages: watch the bulletin for upcoming opportunities. Please contact the office of Faith Formation at 973-761-5933 or email faith@stjosephmaplewood.org. Leave a message and someone will get back to you.

Memorial Day Schedule

MEMORIAL DAY SCHEDULE As we gather with family and friends on Memorial Day, we celebrate the blessings of our hard-won freedom and remember those who made it possible. In observance of Memorial Day, the Parish offices will be closed and Rainbow Seniors will not meet. We will have only one Mass at 9:00 a.m.

Interfaith Hospitality Network

INTERFAITH HOSPITALITY NETWORK St. Joseph's is once again participating in the Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN). We will be hosting four to five families from July 8 through July 22. St. Joseph's is part of the IHN Essex County Network, a group of thirty faith congregations in Essex County, who host families who are in need of shelter. We will give these families a place to stay and three meals a day while families work to secure permanent housing. We will once again be asking for your support by volunteering in a variety of ways. We will need many volunteers to make this a success! We'll need help in setting up and taking down the "apartments" we construct for our guests. We'll need overnight hosts, meals to be prepared, laundry to be washed, grocery items to be purchased,  and volunteers to work with children in the evenings. We will also be setting up an  IHN "Giving Tree" whereby parishioners can purchase items to help us in our hosting. Please look for our "Giving Tree" and our IHN Table  this weekend! If you have any questions, please call Suzanne Ryan at 973-761-7083

SUMMER MUSIC CAMP for K,PreK and Babies

There will be story, song, dancing, instruments and more! Only $5.00 a day per family for children and their parent or caregiver. Take home music CD available. Dates/Days to be determined— let us know your preference. Enrollment will be limited so please email: jleitner@stjosephmaplewood.org or call 973-761-5933 ext. 24 for more details!

OPEN ARMS MINISTRY TO MEET

OPEN ARMS Open Arms is a welcoming spirituality group for gay and lesbian Catholics and our families and friends. Our next meeting is on Wednesday, May 16, at 7:30 p.m.in the rectory. We also hope you will plan to join us for a barbecue on June 9th... so save the date...details will follow! If you would like more information, please contact Dugan McGinley at dmcginley@stjosephmaplewood.org.

Knights of Columbus

REGINA PACIS COUNCIL #4066 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS The NEXT meeting of the Regina Pacis Council will be on Monday, May 14, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. in the council home. We will be nominating members to be elected to office. Please come and show your support for these members.

St. Joseph Prayer Shawl Ministry

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY GATHER WITH US ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 23 AT 12:30 IN THE MEETING ROOM Join us for the last gathering before summer! Can you knit or crochet a simple shawl? Are you interested in knitting and praying for someone in need of solace? Shawls made with compassionate hands and prayerful hearts can be symbolic of the embrace of our God, who loves unconditionally. They encircle, shelter and warm those who receive them. Imagine the uplift to someone in need of comfort and support when they are offered a prayer shawl, a gift of your talent and prayers; a hug from Christ! A dedicated group of people are busily knitting shawls and praying for those who are suffering. If you would like to join our ministry, or make a donation of yarn, call the rectory 973-761-5933.

M.E.N.D. Collection

M.E.N.D. COLLECTION May 19-20 (Meeting Emergency Needs with Dignity). St Joseph’s along with other Food Pantries in Essex County is part of the support group M.E.N.D. Volunteers from St. Joseph Food Pantry will be collecting money to support M.E.N.D next weekend. The organization gathers money and food to distribute to pantries in need. To date, St. Joseph has received over $2000 in food donations from M.E.N.D. when our supplies were low. Part of our commitment to M.E.N.D. is to help with fundraising whenever possible. Please give generously to help support M.E.N.D. and the St Joseph Food Pantry. For information, volunteer opportunities or additional donations, please contact Lynne Blaesser at 908- 686- 1436.

MAYFEST MAY 20

MAYFEST NEXT SUNDAY MAY 20 Please note that due to MayFest on Springfield Avenue, some streets surrounding St. Joseph Church will be subject to re-routing of traffic and parking restrictions, so allow a little more time to get to Mass, (especially if you attend the 11:30 a.m. Liturgy.) The rain date will be May 27. Come for Mass~ Stay for the Festival! Visit the St. Joseph Table, and other highlights, including a petting zoo and pony rides, a kiddie train and inflatable rides, balloon animals, other kids’ activities and a Classic Car Show. More than 100 vendors, artists, crafters, live music and great food will be available. Something for Everyone!

May 13 info

Spring Raffle

WILL YOU BE ONE OF THE LUCKY WINNERS? Try your luck with our parish spring raffle. Please try to buy or sell at least one ticket, but if you are not able to buy all of the tickets sent to you, please return the unsold tickets together with the ones you are buying. Please place in the collection basket or bring to the rectory. Any questions: Call Ron Murphy at 201-463-8962

St. Joseph Church Tour Our Stained Glass Windows

Sunday, May 20, 2012 For children: Join P.O.L.O. families (Parents of Little Ones) for a special morning as we explore the stained glass windows of our beautiful church! Meet after the 9:00 a.m. Mass. The 30-minute program is free. Come with your little ones and see the church through their eyes. Please contact :Candice Davenport at candice.davenport@gmail.com For adults and families: Join parishioner, Bernie Flanagan for a tour of the windows and sacred art of our church as part of our parish outreach during the Maplewood Mayfest at 2:00 pm (This program is also free.)

Youth Group News 05/03/2012

YOUTH GROUP NEWS St. Joseph's Youth Group will meet thisSunday, May 6th from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the youth room located in Bernard Hall. We will be planning our day of service on Saturday, May 12th as we take part in the Hand in Hand Festival. This festival concerns youth group members helping to put on a carnival for developmentally delayed adults. If you are interested in helping please come to our meeting this Sunday for more information. On Sunday, May 20th we will be attending the annual NJ Catholic State Youth Rally at Great Adventure. The cost of ticket will be $45 and includes admission to the park, a four hour food voucher, and a free return trip ticket. We hope you will join us as we meet hundreds of other Catholic teens across the state for workshops, Mass, and a great day of fun at the park. For more information about any of our youth ministry activities please email our youth minister Tom Berrios at tomberrios@hotmail.com

CELEBRATE NATIONAL “WOMEN BUILD” WEEK

CELEBRATE NATIONAL “WOMEN BUILD” WEEK Volunteer with Newark Habitat for Humanity Build Day: Saturday, May 12, 2012 This year we plan to build at sites in Newark's Ironbound. Sign up and help Women Build provide homes for deserving families. Non-builders can help with the Potluck Lunch. Planned construction activities include framing and running wiring in one or two multi-family buildings. Time: 8:00 a.m. until cleanup is finished (approximately 3:30 p.m.) Volunteers will be notified of worksite location 2-3 days before May 12th. To volunteer to build or to help with the potluck lunch, RSVP: to Carol Manning by email cdminsan@msn.com

Religious Ed. Closing Prayer Service

The 221 Children of our Parish Religious Education Program cordially invite you to attend our Closing Prayer Service Sunday, May 6, 2012 at 10:15am in the Church. All children should report to the cafeteria at 10 am as usual.

MUSIC CLASS FOR PRESCHOOLERS AND BABIES

Interested in a weekly music and movement program for your infant and/or preschooler? ‘Making Music Praying Twice’ is available here! Find out more about the classes beginning this Thursday at 10:00 a.m. in the rectory. A Wednesday morning option may be added soon. For information and to register please Email faith@stjosephmaplewood.org
or call Jennifer at 973-761-5933 ext. 24.

Grade 8 Religious Ed. Seeks Your Help!

GRADE 8 RELIGIOUS ED SEEKS YOUR HELP!

Almost within sight of the Statue of Liberty, there are 326 immigrants languishing in “detention”. They are confined to dormitories inside a windowless, converted warehouse. The detainees never leave the building, never breathe fresh air, and are never called by their name. A major concern for the detainees is to be in contact with family and friends. For many of the detainees even this simple pleasure is denied, since they do not have money to purchase stationery, stamped envelopes or phone cards.
The 8th graders of our Religious Education Program will be collecting the following items until Sunday, April 29th:

Blank two-pocket folders ~1st class "forever" stamps and 98 cent stamps for international mail ~ and stationery

Items can be left in the back of church in the donation box.

First Eucharist at St. Joseph Church

ON THE JOURNEY TO EASTER SACRAMENTS:
Parish Children Celebrate First Eucharist
Next Sunday, the third Sunday of this Easter season, thirty six parish children will join us at the Table of the Lord. Ready now to receive the Sacrament of Eucharist for the first time, they, their families and guests will join us at the 11:30 Mass on April 22nd. Many of the center pews will be reserved for their families to sit together. Do take time to admire the banners they have made to mark their pews. As always, welcoming the children at their first Holy Communion will make this a special day for our parish

Santa Cruzan and May Crowning

PARISH MAY CROWNING
AND SANTA CRUZAN FESTIVAL
Sunday, May 6 at 2PM
 
One of the defining aspects of being Catholic is devotion to Mary. Many of us favor no Marian celebration more highly than May Crowning, the feast that recognizes Mary as queen of heaven and earth. To a person of any age, this is a mighty big title, but to a child of five or six or seven, it expands to enchanting, magical proportions. How many queens does one get a chance to meet in a lifetime, much less crown?
 
May Crowning marked a new spiritual season. Our Mary, queen of heaven and earth, lifted us right out of the last long, cold days of winter and firmly planted our hearts in the warm and promising soil of spring.
 
During the Month of May -- a month both named for and dedicated to Mary -- Catholics have long honored her by placing a crown on her image. The tradition in the United States and many other countries has been for children to have a "May Crowning" ceremony, with a procession, pretty dresses and a wreath of fresh flowers that one child gets to place on the statue.
 
We encourage families to bring your children and we extend our special invitation to this year’s First Communicants (wearing their First Communion outfits) to join our Parish May Crowning on Sunday, May 6 beginning at 2:00 p.m. You may bring a small bunch of flowers to offer to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The SANTACRUZAN Procession follows after Mass covering few block around the church. Reception follows in Bernard Hall.
 

Life in the Spirit Seminars

All are invited to deepen our faith in the Holy Spirit by attending the Life in the Spirit Seminars over 6 Tuesdays beginning April 17 through May 22. The seminar begins at 7:30 pm. at St. Joseph Church 767 Prospect St. Maplewood, NJ. Topics are as follows:
God's Love
Salvation
New Life
Receiving God's Gifts
Prayer for Release of Holy Spirit
Growth and Transformation in Christ.

The series is designed to help people realize the power of the Holy Spirit that is available for every aspect of their lives.

Religious Ed. Walk a Thon

Please support our Fourth graders on April 15th as they hold a walk-a-thon to benefit the HK Community Fund which assists local people in need. The children's efforts will help a Maplewood 11 year old boy who is seriously ill. The walk will take place after the 9:00 a.m. Mass and will circle around our block (Prospect, Franklin, Indiana, Hilton Avenues.) during religious ed class time. Please cheer them on and if possible, donate to this worthy cause!

POLO (Parents of Little Ones) Easter Egg Hunt

Come join us for the annual POLO Easter Egg Hunt after the 9 am Mass on Easter Sunday. Meet on the side lawn of the church. This event is for all children ages 6 and under.

Adults who can provide assistance please contact Amy McGlinn at amy_mcglinn@hotmail.com

Parish Office Schedule for Holy Week

Please make note that the office will be closed from April 5-April 8th in observance of the Triduum and Easter Sunday.

PARISH RUMMAGE SALE

The St. Joseph Rummage Sale will be held this year on Saturday and Sunday, June 2-3 in the school gym. Please prepare to bring your valuables for sale! We will be collecting donations in the school gym, starting May 25th. Please join us. If you have any questions, contact Ernie D’Amato at 973-763-2002 or John Otchy at 973-762-4185

Our annual rummage sale event is not only fund raiser but it is also a community building activity. People of all ages work together to put on our parish Rummage sale, and work for the good of our parish community, the wider community and the many charities we support. The income that we generate at the rummage sale is used to fund a variety of parish life and outreach activities. Participating in the Rummage Sale is a great way to make friends in the community while helping to serve the needy.

OPEN ARMS MINISTRY TO MEET

OPEN ARMS is a welcoming spirituality group for gay and lesbian Catholics and our families and friends. For our next meeting, we will join the Faith Sharing group at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in South Plainfield, on Wednesday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.

For more information and directions, please contact Dugan Mcginley at dmcginley@stjosephmaplewood.org.

CYO BASKETBALL

CYO BASKETBALL
Congratulations to the JV Boys 6th Grade team who won the Union County CYO championship beating All Saints Academy of Bayonne 28-17. The 3rd Grade boys and the 4th Grade boys also reached the CYO finals only to finish in 2nd place in their respective divisions. The Parish CYO program completed its 5th season with 135 boys and girls playing on 12 different teams from Grades 1 to 8.
Thank you! to all the coaches who generously volunteered their time and talents to teach the fundamentals of the game and good sportsmanship.