More than 500 people filled the new Most Holy Trinity Church in Cresco for a Dedication Mass on Sunday, May 15, 2022. The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, served as principal celebrant and homilist.

The new church for Most Holy Trinity Parish is located in the former gymnasium/auditorium of the now-closed Monsignor McHugh School located on Route 390 in Paradise Township.

During his homily, Bishop Bambera noted that a Mass of Dedication for a new church does not take place often. In fact, the bishop noted it is only the second he has celebrated since becoming shepherd of the Diocese of Scranton.

Using the Scriptures, including the First Reading from the Book of Nehemiah, which is required for a church dedication Mass, Bishop Bambera spoke to the reality of the moment.

“Look at the journey that brought you from three distinct communities – Saint Mary of the Mount, Saint Ann and Saint Bernadette – and countless other parishes to this great day and this sacred space,” Bishop Bambera noted. “Many of you have said to me today and in recent months, ‘Finally, our dream of a church is realized.’ It has been realized and it is beautiful to behold, isn’t it? But, my brothers and sisters, this dream has become a reality only because from your earliest days as Most Holy Trinity Parish, you have first been committed to building CHURCH – not a building – but the people that God has called you to be!”

As he ended his homily, the bishop reminded all those present that their journey of faith is not over with the dedication of their new building.
“While we have much for which to be grateful this day, this church building will only shine forth as a vibrant sign of love and hope to all if you, who have given it life, continue to live your faith in service of the Gospel of Jesus,” the bishop challenged them.

Following his homily, the bishop prayed the ‘Prayer of Dedication.’ He also anointed and incensed the altar and walls of the church, preparing the building for the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Many of the items in the new church – including the pews, stained glass windows, presider’s chair, marble Stations of the Cross and more – were all taken from the old church buildings that closed.

CTV: Catholic Television was there to tape the opening Mass of the new Church and will air that liturgy on:

June 14th at 9:30 a.m.
June 15th at 8 p.m.
June 16th at 1:30 p.m.

 

SCRANTON — After nearly 40 years of Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) leadership service in the Diocese of Scranton, Robert “Bob” Valiante retired from his post as CCR Liaison and Coordinator in October 2021.

During a celebration at Queen of Apostles Parish in Avoca, Valiante was honored by Bishop Joseph C. Bambera, along with many priests from the diocese, all of whom expressed their deepest gratitude for his untiring efforts and dedication on behalf of the Scranton Charismatic movement.

Karen McLain, a long-time volunteer, has graciously accepted the challenging position and will continue to serve as Conference Coordinator.

A member of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish in Moscow and graduate of Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she received the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, McLain returned to her native roots in 1991 and became active in the Scranton CCR. She has served as a leader for the Burning Bush Prayer Group, coordinator of the Service Team, teacher and, for the past several years, coordinator of the Annual Scranton Charismatic Conference.

Following a varied professional career, McLain most recently served for 13 years as office manager for Holy Cross High School in Dunmore. She and her husband, Allan, reside in rural Madison Township in Lackawanna County.

“We are the Catholic Charismatic Renewal and we have been active in the Diocese of Scranton for more than 50 years,” McLain said. “We encourage people in their personal relationship with Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and we believe that the Holy Spirit is active and working in our lives every day!”

She further stated that, outside of the sacred liturgy, Charismatic Renewal events are marked with contemporary music and demonstrative worship.

“We sing, stand, clap, and raise our hands! We pray for healing, discernment, and any needs,” she explained, emphasizing that the movement works in partnership with diocesan offices, along with Catholic parishes and organizations, under the authority of the Bishop to “stir into flame” the graces of the Holy Spirit in people’s lives.

“Our Holy Fathers, from Pope John XXIII through our current Pope Francis, have all spoken of the important role the Renewal plays within the Church,” McLain noted.

One of the Scranton Charismatic Renewal’s most notable and defining characteristics is on grand display every year during the first weekend of August, when they welcome to The University of Scranton some 1,800 guests for the Annual Catholic Charismatic Conference.

Having been hosted by the Scranton CCR for four decades, the Charismatic Conference is one of the largest and longest running in the nation. This year’s conference will be held Aug. 5-7.

The Renewal also hosts many other events during the year, including Nights of Adoration, prayer breakfasts, weekly prayer meetings, Mass with prayers for healing, Life in the Spirit seminars, retreats, and Days of Renewal.

A Charismatic Pentecost Celebration will be held on Saturday, June 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Scranton’s Diocesan Pastoral Center (see accompanying ad on this page for details).

For more information about CCR, visit: www.ccrscranton.org or via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/CCRScrantonDiocese); call (570) 344-2214 or email: office@ccrscranton.org.

 

CRESCO (May 12, 2022) – After years of dreaming and planning, a Mass of Dedication for the new Most Holy Trinity Church in Cresco will be celebrated on Sunday, May 15, 2022, at 2 p.m.

The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, will serve as principal celebrant and homilist for the Dedication Mass. The Mass will be concelebrated by Father Brian J.W. Clarke, pastor, Most Holy Trinity Parish, and other priests from the Diocese of Scranton.

When a new church opens, it is dedicated to the Lord with a solemn rite, in accordance with the ancient custom of the Church. During the Dedication Mass at Most Holy Trinity, Bishop Bambera will pray the Prayer of Dedication and participate in the Anointing of the Altar and Walls of the Church.

The community is invited and welcome to attend the Dedication Mass. Everyone is invited to stay after Mass for refreshments in the narthex.

Most Holy Trinity Parish was created upon the consolidation of Saint Ann Parish, Tobyhanna; Saint Mary of the Mount Parish, Mount Pocono; and Saint Bernadette Parish, Canadensis.

The Dedication Mass will be the first time that many parishioners will have the opportunity to see the new worship space. Members of the media are welcome to attend the Mass of Dedication for interviews and/or photographs.

Mass of Dedication for Most Holy Trinity Parish, Cresco
Sunday, May 15, 2022 at 2 p.m.
212 State Route 390
Cresco, PA 18326

 

 

 

 

 

WASHINGTON – In response to the leak of a draft opinion in the U.S. Supreme Court case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, some abortion advocates are calling for nationwide demonstrations, disruptions of church services, and the personal intimidation of specific Supreme Court justices. Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities invited the faithful to unite in fasting and prayer:

“In the midst of current tensions, we invite Catholics around the country to join us in fasting and praying the Rosary on Friday, May 13, the Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima. Let us offer our prayers and fasting for these intentions:

• For our nation, for the integrity of our judicial system, and that all branches of government be dedicated to seeking the common good and protecting the dignity and rights of the human person, from conception to natural death.

• For the overturning of Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey in the Supreme Court’s final decision in Dobbs v. Jackson.

• For the conversion of the hearts and minds of those who advocate for abortion.

• For a new commitment to building an America where children are welcomed, cherished, and cared for; where mothers and fathers are encouraged and strengthened; and where marriage and the family are recognized and supported as the true foundations of a healthy and flourishing society.

• For Our Blessed Mother’s intercession and guidance as the Church continues to walk with mothers and families in need, and continues to promote alternatives to abortion, and seeks to create a culture of life.

As Catholics, let us witness to the beautiful gift of life with civility and love, and with our peaceful prayers and our compassionate service to all those in need.

Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us.”

 


On Sunday, May 1, these twenty boys and girls received the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist for the first time during the 11:00 a.m. Sunday Liturgy with Rev. Michael M. Bryant, Pastor, presiding.

Pictured with Father Michael are:  Nicholas Zbylicki, Paige Hubert, Penelope Nealis, Liliana Nee, Lyla Lenceski, Aaron Traeger, Joseph Gromelski, Ashton Schumaker, Roman Limongelli, Vincent Wall, Matthew Balchune, Christian Pace, Luke Sciandra, Levi Boyanowski, Emma Rose Hadley, Aubrianna Scartelli, Anna Barycki, Hannah MacRae, Ayla Amico, and Mia Concepcion.

 

The 2022 First Communion Class shown with L-R Deacon Tom Spataro, Catechist Anne French and Pastor of the Church of St. Patrick, Rev. Joseph Manarchuck (Photo by Tom Duncan Photography)

Nineteen area children received the sacrament of Holy Communion for the first time in ceremonies held at the Church of St. Patrick in Milford.

The catechetical student recipients were: Emma Armandi, Joseph Barcia, Emma Bauman, Michael DeMaio, Noah Eira and Harper Ganska, all of Milford;  Liam Johnson, Charlotte Keller, Ayden and Anaya McIntosh of Dingmans

Ferry;  Anya Nielsen, Jacob and Julianna Rizzo, Aaron Rodgers, Jillian Sell, Jason and Theodore Stierle, Avery Stewart and Mya Terry, all of Milford.

The Mass and ceremony, witnessed by their parents, grandparents, guardians and family members, included: Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Renewal of Baptismal Promises, Liturgy of the Eucharist and Communion Rite.

Jillian Sell presents a bouquet of flowers in honor of the Blessed Mother. (Photo by Tom Duncan Photography)

In preparation for the occasion, students made beautiful banners reflective of images associated with Holy Communion, e.g. the chalice and sacred host.

Following the ceremony, the students received special gifts and a Certificate of Holy Communion signed by Pastor, Rev. Joseph Manarchuck. On the day after receiving First Holy Communion (Mother’s Day),  several of the students  participated in the crowning of the statue of the Blessed Mother.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pat and Carol Beirne, 70 years married

Over 1100 years of marriage were celebrated by the parishioners of St. Peter and Paul parish in Towanda on April 24th at JFK Hall.

Each couple was recognized and photographed.

Featured was the longest married couple Pat and Carol Beirne celebrating 70 years.

Tips were shared for a happy marriage.  Popular DJ Bob and wife Bev Brenner entertained, and Pastor Father Ed Michelini sang “IF YOU WANT TO BE HAPPY” to a receptive audience.

Following a delicious lunch prepared by Kathie Dewan and Sandy Kasenga, lively dancing ensued.

 

KINGSTON – May 11, 2022 – For the first time since 2014, the acclaimed Bratislava Boys Choir from Bratislava, Slovakia will return to Northeastern Pennsylvania for concerts in Kingston and Scranton.

The first performance is scheduled for St. Ignatius Church, 339 N. Maple Ave., Kingston on Wednesday, May 11 at 7:00 p.m. A second will be held at St. Peter’s Cathedral, 315 Wyoming Ave., Scranton on Thursday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m. Both concerts are free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted.

While in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the boys – ranging in age from ten to eighteen – will experience local history and culture as they spend two nights with host families and enjoy visits to Steamtown and the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour.

Founded by Dr. Magdaléna Rovňáková in 1982, the Bratislava Boys Choir is part of a private music school enrolling about ninety students ages seven through twenty-eight. The choir’s repertoire features a wide variety of both sacred and secular works including Gregorian chant, Renaissance polyphony, concert Masses, arrangements of folk songs, and works by contemporary composers. The widely traveled choir has collaborated with the Slovak Philharmonic, the Vienna Symphony, and the Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra in addition to recording seven compact discs. The boys have been featured in the soundtracks of several films.

The Bratislava Boys Choir’s visit to Northeastern Pennsylvania is presented by the Slovak Heritage Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania in cooperation with World Artists Experiences and the Embassy of Slovakia.

For more information, contact Michael Stretanski at 570-817-3430, Raphael Micca at rdmicca@aol.com, or visit www.facebook.com/worldartistsNEPA.

 

 

The Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen in Scranton will mark the conclusion of its 2022 Host‑for‑a‑Day campaign with a Virtual Celebration highlighting the mission of the Kitchen and those who make it possible.

The Kitchen serves a free, hot, nutritious meal to approximately 200 men, women and children each day at lunchtime and three evenings a week. This includes those who are offered weekly meals through the Mid Valley Outreach Program at parish locations and high-rise housing buildings in Carbondale and Olyphant. In addition, the Kitchen operates a Client-Choice Food Pantry and Free Clothing Store that serve hundreds of families and individuals each month.

The Host‑for‑a‑Day campaign is the primary source of financial support for these programs. For a donation of $100 or more, an individual, family, business, community organization or faith-based group can help to sponsor the day’s meal. In effect, each contributor becomes a “host” for a day.

Out of continuing concern for the health and safety of benefactors, the typical Appreciation Reception that concludes the campaign will again be marked with a Virtual Celebration consisting of a brief pre-recorded program.

According to Melissa Pavlowski, president of the Kitchen Advisory Board, and Maria McCool, a Board member who is chairing the Host‑for‑a‑Day campaign, this year the Virtual Celebration will honor Monsignor Constantine V. Siconolfi, who founded the Kitchen in 1978, and the management and employees of Toyota of Scranton for their continuing outstanding support.

The Virtual Celebration video will be presented on www.stfranciskitchen.org and www.facebook.com/stfranciskitchen. It will debut on Wednesday, April 27, at 6 p.m. and will remain online so it can be viewed any time after that.

The Host‑for‑a‑Day campaign still needs donations to meet its goal. Contributions can be made by calling the Kitchen at 570-342‑5556, or sending a check to Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen, 500 Penn Avenue, Scranton PA 18509. Donations can also be made online at: www.stfranciskitchen.org.

Those who would like to sponsor the Virtual Reception are asked to call the Kitchen at 570-342‑5556.

SCRANTON – After six weeks of friendly competition, the Diocese of Scranton’s inaugural cooking fundraiser, Rectory, Set, Cook!, came to an end on Sunday, April 10, raising more than $170,000 for parishes in the Diocese of Scranton and anti-hunger initiatives sponsored by Catholic Social Services.

More than 2,700 donors voted for their favorite “pastor chef.” Thank you to everyone who participated!