October 8, 2024

Welcome to Fall at Saint Josephine Bakhita Parish

October 8, 2024

Dear Parishioners and Friends of Saint Josephine Bakhita Parish,

There is a crazy, yet seemingly factual, story about a species of jellyfish that has a taste for a particular variety of tiny snails. It devours them with ease, but then discovers that their hard shells are indigestible. The snails attach themselves to the walls of the jellyfish stomach and begin to eat their host. By the time they grow to maturity, the jellyfish is no more. The diner became the dinner, consumed by what it consumed!

Jesus repeatedly warns us about this: we can be consumed by what we consume. In our hearts, we know what makes a life worthwhile: building good bridges, sharing our gifts, searching for truth and being true. We know all that, but our attention wanders: over-saturated with half truths and lies, the power of false gods such power, prestige and stuff, overwhelmed by crazy conspiracies and insane scenarios and predictions, etc., etc.

So where do we find the wisdom to avoid being devoured by all that can only make us spiritually, emotionally and physically malnourished or starved? Where do we find the strength to say the “yeses” and the “noes” that need to be said, and then the strength to follow through? Jesus tells us that our Father will help us find that strength, if we stay close to him.

Peace and blessings!

Fr. George Couturier

We had a huge turnout for our annual Blessing of the Animals on the Feast of Saint Francis. God Bless our Furry Family members!

Join Us for the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time

October 13, 2024

4:00 PM Vigil at St. James

9:00 AM at St. Elizabeth Seton

and livestreamed

11:00 AM at St. James

Deacon Sunday – October 13, 2024

Happy Deacon Sunday to Deacon Michael.

Thank you for your commitment and dedication in all that you do.

Lord Jesus Christ, Servant of all,

Send your Spirit upon our deacons as they serve your Church.

Give them eyes to see the needs of your people.

Give them a discerning mind to know your truth.

Give them a generous spirit when they are tired but needed.

Give them a humble heart when their work goes unnoticed.

Give them peace of mind in obedience and service.

Give them health of body so they may serve with strength.

Make them fertile ground for your inspiration and love.

Comfort them when they question themselves and their ministry.

Grant them grace so they may share your wisdom.

Make their hearts like yours so they may love your people.

Amen.

Interested in Becoming Catholic? We Can Help!

Times such as those we are living through now often prompt people to examine what we believe, how we make sense of the world and examine just what we live by, and why, and where “this all seems to be going.” Christian faith as offered in and through the Catholic Church brings 20 centuries of belief and wisdom to bear on these very questions.

Entering the Catholic Church through Baptism at Easter after exploration and instruction in the faith is the typical path for those entering the Catholic Church as adults. We are presently planning the process for those who may wish to enter the Church at Easter in the spring of 2025.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in exploring this possibility with us, we are certainly happy and eager to help. Anyone interested should contact Deacon Michael at dcnmichael@sjbrh.org (best) or by phone at 860-529-3222, x14.

Learn About Becoming A Catholic Here

Other Fun Tidbits

Inviting all Sewers, Knitters & Crocheters

The Saint Josephine Bakhita Parish Knit, Crochet, Sew & Pray Ministries serve our community in generous ways.

The Knit, Crochet & Sew Good Works Ministry meets every Wednesday in Fr. Shea Hall at St. James Church from 1pm – 4pm.

Contact: Sandy Rokosz at sandyrokosz7@hotmail.com

The Morning Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the forth Monday of each month at St. Elizabeth Seton Church at 9am.

Contact: Betty Catelli at catellib64@gmail.com

The Evening Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the first Monday of each month at St. Elizabeth Seton Church at 6:45pm.

Contact: Laura Pentland at lbpent57@gmail.com

We are open to anyone who has the skills to sew, knit or crochet or who would like to learn. Whether you knit or crochet quickly or slowly, your help is welcome to fulfill the mission of spreading God’s love through our craft. It is our hope that those who receive our crafts will feel the love that goes into making each and every one of them. Our time together begins and ends with prayer and all creations are prayed over and blessed prior to being gifted.

Volunteers Needed!

Planning for our annual Holiday Fair is well underway. We need lots of volunteers to help make it all happen! Click the button below or scan the QR Code to sign up to help! If you prefer to talk to someone about volunteering, call Kathy Alexander at 860-563-5859.

Click Here to Volunteer at the Holiday Fair

Early Access to Holiday Fair Items Starts NOW!

Knit, crochet and Sew Good Works has Holiday Fair items available again this year for early purchase, or to order. Returning items include Irish knit sweaters, table runners, quilts and more. (Some items are limited and may not be available by the fair.) Great Gift ideas! For more information or to make an appointment, contact Vivian Orsini at vorsini24@aol.com, or text 860-906-7433 and leave a message.

Click Here for a List of Pre-sale Items