September 22, 2024
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Have you seen “Back to School” signs posted on the TV, the Internet, and in stores?
Have you seen “Back to Church” signs posted on the TV, the Internet, and the front lawns of churches?
As The Magdalene begins a new pastoral year, I encourage parishioners to transition from watching Masses Livestream to attending Masses in person. This transition is a wonderful time for parishioners to reconnect and be reunited with their faith community. All too often people would comment, “I watch mass on TV”. Watching mass on TV has its place, especially for homebound parishioners and parishioners confined to medical and healthcare institutions. Yes, the pandemic is over, however, COVID-19 remains.
Catholics are called to gather each Sunday in community for the celebration of the Mass. The Mass consists of the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. We listen to God’s word, and we receive Holy Communion. Both are equally important. It is nice to gather around the altar of the Lord each week and break bread. Think about how wonderful it is to have the entire family gather for the holidays. When one family member is missing at the table, his/her absence is felt. Please make every effort to return to Church. Jesus misses you and so do your fellow parishioners. While greeting parishioners at the end of mass, a few comment, “Fr. Tim, I do not see Mr. Jones, Mrs. Smith, the man who used to sit in the third pew, or the parishioner who used to attend Mass his/her aide. Is he/she still with us?”
The transition from summer to fall is a wonderful time for parishioners to reconnect after scattered summer schedules. We begin September with new activities/ministries—Brown Bag Sunday and the Health Awareness Committee. We continue with our Mass on the Grass. Brunch Sunday resumes on the first Sunday of each month beginning October 6, and the Faith Formation Program will move in a different direction with Family Masses. In November, the COTM will host the River Town Clergy Thanksgiving Services. Additional events/programs are on the horizon in 2025.
Using the bulletin, website, email, and Flock Notes (please sign up), allows the parish to maintain a connection and keep you informed of the happenings occurring here in The Magdalene.
Imagine when your children are not back at school. Guess who comes knocking at your door?
Imagine when you are not back in God’s house. Guess who may come knocking at your door?
Fr. Tim
September 15, 2024
Dear Parishioners & Friends,
At times, events and celebrations slip by us, as on Sunday, September 8. On this date, there was a Feast and an observance. The Feast was Mary’s Birthday, and the observance was National Grandparents Day.
Birthday celebrations bring happiness to family and friends. Next to the birth of Jesus (December 25) and John the Baptist (June 24), Mary’s birth (September 8) offers joy to the world. The church has celebrated Mary’s birth since at least the sixth century. A September birth was chosen because the Easter Church begins its liturgical year with September. The September 8 date helps determine the date for the feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8 (nine months earlier). Scripture does not give an account of Mary’s birth. According to Tradition, the names of Mary’s parents are Ann and Joachim, Jesus’ maternal grandparents. The love of these two human beings has joined with God in His creative work albeit they remain obscure.
National Grandparents Day is not a public holiday. It was signed into law by President Jimmy Carter and designated the first Sunday in September after Labor Day. It is time to pause and appreciate the older generations of our families and their contributions on many levels. Grandparents offer strength, information, wisdom, and guidance. They leave memories that will forever shape their grandchildren’s lives. (NB: On July 26, the Memorial of Sts. Ann and Joachim, the church celebrates the “feast of grandparents”.)
Most grandchildren have two sets of grandparents: paternal (father’s parents) and maternal (mother’s parents). I never had two sets of grandparents. I only had my maternal grandparents who lived next door. They were a tremendous help to my mom and most influential in my rearing. When mom fell short, grandma was THERE—sometimes behind the scenes and other times front and center always serving as the Matriarch. While on vacation, I asked a priest friend, with two sets of grandparents, who was his ‘favorite’ grandmother. He said, one gave me chicklets the other gave me hard candy.
Recently, I was involved in pastoral encounters with three COTM grandparents. These grandparents have been registered parishioners for over 4 decades, are weekly Mass attendees in “their pews” and offer their time, talent, and treasure. They maintain the family registry. I am extremely grateful for the role they play in their families (and the multi-tasking) and pray their legacy will continue here at COTM with their children and their children’s children. Their ‘grandness’ comes from their faithfulness, example, and understanding, which I hope will never end.
KTF (Keep The Faith) and KFT (Keep Family Traditions)
September 8, 2024
Dear Parents and Children,
As the end of summer ends, a new school will soon begin with new teachers, school buildings/classrooms, friends, and schedules. During this time of change, I encourage you to read The Book of Proverbs. Proverbs were written as an instruction for young people, to guide them as they mature. It stressed education, selfdiscipline, prudence, honesty, and good moral character – all lead to wisdom. When you think of wisdom, you might recall athletes, musicians, inventors, coaches, teachers, parents, grandparents, and mentors. They all are bright and work hard to see what is not obvious but what will make the world better, safer, friendly, easier, healthier, more productive, more fulfilling, and more beautiful. But let’s also think of your teachers, who are also wise. They can see the obvious and want to share their wisdom with you.
It’s been decades since I attended elementary, junior, and senior high schools, college, and seminary. Besides teaching me the appropriate subject material, my teachers also taught me wisdom. Here is a sample: My kindergarten teacher taught this jingle: “When you cough and when you sneeze, use your handkerchief if you please.” (a gentleman/lady never leaves home without a handkerchief in his/her pocket/pocketbook); my fourth-grade teacher taught me good manners/conduct, the “pleases” and the difference between “can” and “may”; my sixth-grade teacher always told us to “keep our noses clean” (he was not related to my kindergarten teacher); my seventh-grade science teacher always gave second chances when receiving a poor grade (oh, that extra credit), you had a chance to add a 1 before the ‘goose egg’/zero and a zero after the first goose egg; my eighth and ninth grade English teacher demanded excellence and discipline; my business teacher and Home Economics teachers taught me humility when I had 99.4 GPA and did not receive 100, my tenth-grade English teacher, who was also my eleventh-grade psychology teacher and drama teacher, taught acceptance and inclusion; and my high school guidance counselor passed on her great listening ability and self-confidence (we remain friends to this day).
Parents, I offer you “The Parent’s Prayer When Children are Leaving Home” (modified): Gracious God, you blessed me with the gift of my children and entrusted me with their care. Surround them with good people and watch over them each day. And let them know that I will always be near whenever they need me. Heal any hurts we may harbor with each other and forgive our failings as we learn to be in a new kind of relationship with each other. And when the sight of their empty room pierces my heart with sadness, may I find comfort in knowing that my children are your children, too, filled with your grace and sheltered by your love. AMEN
St. Thomas Aquinas, pray for us!
Fr. Tim
August 31, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
Tomorrow, September 2, is Labor Day in the US.
On this Labor Day, we give thanks to God for the employed. Moreover, we pray for the unemployed. Although men and women are gainfully employed, a pink slip could be on the horizon tomorrow for many Americans adding to July’s unemployment rate of 4.3%.
On this Labor Day, we pause and reflect on how our work contributes to the good of society. Whatever a person’s occupation, it is to be valued.
On this Labor Day, we give thanks for those who teach, make bread, harvest fruits and vegetables, legislate on our behalf, take our orders, mow our lawns, take care of our children, dig ditches, resolve computer problems, wear uniforms, clean house and office buildings, perform on stage, and transport us via plane, bus, train, Uber. Remember…we need lawyers to defend us, police to protect us, role models to guide us, nurses and doctors to heal us, and religious to save our souls. Perhaps some men and women are unhappy in their jobs and feel that they are not “successful”. Our “success” can be found in our work if we invite Jesus to be part of it.
On this Labor Day, I reflect on the number of jobs I have held since the age of 14 to the present day. They include cleaning up sawdust and emptying fat barrels in a Jewish meat market, working tray line positions, washing patients’ trays and cleaning pots, pans, stoves and ovens at the now defunct United Hospital, catering for the affluent and serving as a clerk at General Foods during the summer months while in high school, cooking at a sleepaway camp in MA and working at Sears and at a leather goods store during the Christmas season while in college; cashiering and stocking shelves at Grand Union in Greenwich and serving as a substitute teacher at my local high school while in between jobs, holding different managerial positions with reputable foodservice companies upon college graduation, working as the lead cook at a summer day camp in Westchester before entering the Seminary and currently….employed by the Archdiocese of NY. Work was never an option; it is a necessity.
What does the Church say about work? The encyclical Rerum Noverum, issued by Pope Leo XIII in 1892, addressed the working-class conditions and the relationship between capital and labor. Rerum Noverum was issued in response to the class conflicts that arose due to industrialism and capitalism. Pope Leo emphasized many topics, including the plight of the urban poor, dignity in the workplace, and fair and safe working conditions for the laborers advocating for the formation of unions.
On the feast of Saint Joseph, the Worker (May 1), Pope Francis spoke about societies that put company profits above human dignity or even human life. “What point have we come to?” he asked. He noted that Jesus was a worker and lamented companies that put much more attention on profits than the dignity of labor.
132 years later, after the publication of Rerum Noverum, work remains a challenge on many levels.
On this Labor Day and each day that I begin my work, I thank God for the jobs that I held and the work ethic that I have maintained (despite the working conditions and pay). I look forward to retirement at the age of 75! Until then… Work, work, work!
St. Joseph, the patron of workers, pray for us!
Fr. Tim
August 25, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
This weekend is Mission Cooperative Sunday assigned by the Society of the Propagation of the Faith. The society was organized in Lyon, France to raise money for the missions in Louisiana, U.S. In 1922, the headquarters of the society was moved from France, where it had been under the control of a French council of laymen, to Rome, where Pope Pius XI reorganized it and made it the chief fund-raising and distribution agency for all Roman Catholic missions.
Please join me in welcoming Fr. Thomas C. Joseph, a chaplain at the White Plains Hospital. Fr. Joseph will preach on behalf of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Aitape, Papua New Guinea. In 2022, there were 167,747 Catholics; 32 parishes, 1 mission, 16 priests, 51 religious, and 1 seminarian. A Second Collection will be taken up after all the Masses in support of the Diocese of Aitape. Please be generous as your means permit.
Next month you will find an additional envelope temporarily labeled “Maintenance” in your September-October envelope packet. When the Parish had the “improvement fund” envelope in the past, the money was used to fund improvements to various components of the buildings and grounds and to fund items that might be needed to enhance the Religious Education program. It could also be used for upgrading holiday displays, replacing kitchen items, and other items that may not be able to be covered by the day-to-day expenses.
At the Parish Council Meeting in May, it was recommended by the chairs of the Finance Committee and Building and Grounds Committee, to re-instate the monthly “Maintenance Collection at the beginning of a new fiscal year in September. I accepted their recommendation for the good of the parish. The
Maintenance Collection is designed to subsidize the costs of basic repairs to our beautiful Church and its surrounding grounds (more on this in the September 8 bulletin). To date the COTM has spent $30,000 on various minor projects; one of which was repairing a leaky portion of the roof over the Religious Education Program’s annex to the Church.
Each month the Archdiocese has a Second Collection. In order not to have multiple second collections each month, the date for this collection will fluxate. We will communicate our established dates with DP Murphy, our envelope company. The first Maintenance Collection will be Sunday, September 15.
K.T.F.
Fr. Tim
August 18, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
The National Eucharist Revival ended on Sunday, July 21, 2024. Whether you watched some of it or all of it, the fruit from this 5-day revival is to be united once again around the source and summit of our faith and to grow in greater appreciation of the Eucharistic, the most cherished gift of our Faith. This “growth” can be obtained in many ways, including the intellectual component. Printed below is a list of recommended books for your reading pleasure.
• Jesus Has Left the Light On For You: Stop in and pay Him a Visit!
Whatever kind of friend you are looking for, Jesus is that friend! He is always available for your visit, day or night!
• Watch One Hour With Me
This publication enriches our understanding of the Holy Hour by explaining what it is and its benefits. Gives suggestions on how to make one.
• Fount of Love: Eucharistic Reflections
Contains 50 short, easy-to-read meditations, each presenting an original gift of love.
• Gate of Heaven: The Holy Eucharist
Amidst the confusion and abuses rampant today, this booklet clarifies and strengthens devotion to the greatest mystery of the Church on earth, the Real Presence.
• Preparation for Confession and Communion
Part I contains a brief, clear explanation of confession, an examination of conscience, and the act of contrition along with other confession prayers. Part II briefly explains the Mass, the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, how to prepare for Communion, and its effects on the soul.
• Eucharist and Covenant in John’s Last Supper Account
For centuries a dilemma has existed because St. John whose gospel alone mentions Jesus’ promise of the Eucharist and who wrote far more extensively about the Last Supper than did any other Gospel writers, apparently does not mention the fulfillment of the promise by the institution. Why this puzzling omission?
• Rekindling Eucharistic Amazement
Eloquent and moving excerpts from St. Paul II’s encyclical Ecclesia. This pamphlet renews the reader’s sense of awe and wonder at Jesus’ gift of Himself to us.
Fr. Tim
PS: Eucharist Adoration will resume on Saturday, September 7, from 4:25 to 4:55 pm.
August 11, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
Thursday, August 15 is The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a holy day of obligation. The Catholic Church designate certain holy days throughout the year as days of obligation, where the faithful are required to participate in Mass. It’s important to note that holy days of obligation can vary by country. Since the Blessed Virgin Mary is the patroness of the Americas, many of our holy days of obligation evolve around her life.
All the feast days of Mary mark the great mysteries of her life and her part in the work of Salvation. The central mystery of her life and person is her Divine Motherhood, celebrated both at Christmas and a week later, January 1, on the feast of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. The Immaculate Conception, December 8, marks the preparation for that Motherhood, so that she had the fullness of grace from the first moment of her existence, completely untouched by sin.
The Assumption is a very old feast of the Church and has been celebrated universally since the 6 th century. The Assumption was originally celebrated in the East, where it is known as the Feast of the Domitian, a word which means the “the falling asleep.” Tradition variously places Mary’s death at Jerusalem or at Ephesus, where John was living.
The Assumption completes God’s work in her since it was not fitting that the flesh that had given life to God Himself should ever undergo corruption. The Assumption is God’s crowning of His work as Mary ends her earthly life and enters Eternity. The feast turns our eyes in that direction, where we will follow when our earthly life is over. The feast days of the church look to the present and to the future and gives us an insight to our own relationship with God.
The Assumption looks to Eternity and gives us hope that we too will follow Our Lady when or earthly pilgrimage is ended.
The Collect/Opening Prayer, at Mass on the Assumption, reads: “All powerful and ever-living God, You raised the sinless Virgin Mary, Mother of Your Son body and soul, to the glory Heaven. May we see Heaven as our final goal and come to share her glory.”
In 1950, in the Apostolic Constitution, “Munificentissimus Deus,” Pope Pius XII proclaimed the Assumption of Mary a dogma (teaching) of the Catholic Church in these words:”the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into Heaven.”
Blessings,
Fr. Tim
August 4, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
This Tuesday we celebrate the Transfiurgation of the Lord. All three Synoptic Gospels tell the story of the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8); Mark 9:2-9; Luke 9: 28- 36). With remarkable agreement, all three place the event shortly after Peter’s confession of faith that Jesus is the Messiah and Jesus’ first prediction of his passion and death. Peter’s eagerness to erect tents or booths on the spot suggests it occurred during the Jewish weeklong fall Feast of Booths. Christ gave his three apostles a personal vision of his divinity. As a result, He wants his disciples to see him as the source and the summit of everything in their lives.
In his book To Praise, To Bless, To Preach, Dominican Father Peter John Cameron and my former Homiletics Professor at Saint Joseph’s Seminary (Dunwoodie) comments: “We need the light of Christ, which is the intimate love of friendship in order to add and to reverence that reflection. That is what the Transfiguration is all about: seeing Christ as light so as to be able to see everything in our life in the light of Christ. Once we see Jesus like this, we gain a new way of seeing ourselves.”
The revelation on the mountaintop is clearly intended to “open the disciples’ eyes.” Where do we need to open our eyes and envision a world where the colors of equality, the splendor of peace, the brilliance of truth, the light of hope, and the majestic songs of reconciliation are valued? Where is the light of Christ for the world today amidst war, violence, crime, high unemployment, division, sickness, and death? “The Transfiguration gives us a foretaste of Christ’s glorious coming… But is also recalls that it is through many persecutions that we must enter the Kingdom of God.” (CCC #556) Therefore, let us ask ourselves what would our world look like transfigured, transformed by God’s love and His saving light. Imagine it!
TRANSFIGURE US, O LORD –Bob Hurd
Transfigure us, O Lord.
Break the chains that bind us;
Speak your healing word,
And where you lead we’ll follow.
Transfigure us, O Lord.
Fr. Tim
July 21, 2024
Today marks another chapter in the history of the parish—the celebration of our 130th Anniversary. Although the canonical title is “Church of St. Mary Magdelene,” parishioners refer to their beloved small white-frame country church, surrounded by the large acreage of the Rockefeller estates, as “The Magdalene” or “Hidden Gem”. Great pride comes from the fact that we are the only church in the archdiocese that bears the name, “The Magdalene.” Who is Mary Magdalene? Please refer to page 1 of the bulletin.
The church began in 1893 as a mission Church of St. Teresa of Avila parish in North Tarrytown—now Sleepy Hollow. The church became a parish to serve the residents of Pocantico Hills and Eastview in 1894. Today, the Magdalene welcomes families from over 40 zip codes in Westchester and beyond to worship God, pray, and seek solace in their spiritual home. At times, three and four generations occupy a pew or more, participating actively in the Mass. They leave a legacy with their abiding faith and unwavering loyalty to the Magdalene which has supported them in good times and bad. Moreover, they remain the “brick-and-mortar” of the parish. We are also blessed with new families who call The Magdalene their spiritual home. Taken together, parishioners share their sentiments.
In a previously published bulletin, I asked “What is a Parish?” In addition to its members being defined within certain geographical boundaries, it is also determined by the men and women who assist me in running the parish. I’m extremely grateful to my Parish Governance Team (Trustees, Finance Committee, and Parish Council) for their professional expertise and wise counsel, and to the Ministers of the Sacred Liturgy— extraordinary ministers, Lectors, altar servers, ushers, cantors, and organist, who use their gifts to help the faith community to worship with utmost and devotion. The sacraments continue to be ministered with great care and reverence. Our Faith Formation programs (Religious Education and the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd) continue to instill Faith in our young children. The parish’s weekly novenas, prayer groups, committees, and social events, whether established or newly established, foster the spiritual growth of the Magdalene. We continue to maintain our parish plant and liturgical environment. Responding to the needs of the poor through various activities continues to be the hallmark of the Parish. The long history and relationship with the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary (Marymount) continues as I celebrate the Holy Eucharist each week. Since the Westchester Medical Center falls within our boundaries, we maintain their emergency sacramental records. Currently, The Parish provides for the spiritual needs of our neighbor, the Pocantico Hills Fire Department when called upon. The Magdalene is a member of the Tarrytown & Sleepy Hollow Chamber of Commerce and the Rivertown’s Clergy Association. I am appreciative of my dedicated staff and volunteers, and 103 faithful supporters who allowed us to surpass our 2024 Cardinal’s Appeal goal.
Whether coming to The Magdalene for Mass or simply for a visit, people often comment on the beauty and simplicity of our church, as well as our magnificent stained-glass windows, many donated by the Butler family. Visitors continue to say the windows are our most cherished possessions… I consistently comment that the parishioners are the most prized possession.
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118: 24). With great rejoicing and gratitude, I thank the Almighty God and St. Mary Magdalene, our patroness, and all the parish priests for the graces and blessings they have bestowed upon us during the last 130 years and in the years to come. Sometimes called the Apostle to the Apostles,” Mary Magdalene shared the good news of Jesus’ Resurrection with the Twelve. May we follow her example as one whose love of Christ compels us to proclaim the Gospel boldly to those whom we encounter in our daily lives.
Blessings,
Fr. Tim
July 14, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
The Rivertown’s Clergy Association is a group of clergy leaders of different religious faiths who meet monthly for prayer and fellowship and positive interaction. In addition to this, we dialogue and coordinate events of common interest. We value, embrace, and respect all faith traditions. Since arriving here at The Magdalene, I have been a member and remain committed to ensuring a Catholic presence and voice are included.
On Tuesday, June 25, we gathered on the grounds of the Tarrytown Village Hall for our GATHER FOR PEACE. It was a time of prayer and unity as we called for peace throughout the world. It was nice to see a couple of parishioners. After our peaceful gathering, we had a takeaway offering simple ways to foster peace. I wish to share the 19 suggestions with you.
SIMPLE WAYS TO ESTABLISHING PEACE
1. Simplify your life
2. Create a peaceful affirmation/mantra
3. Strengthen the good
4. Treat a friend to coffee/tea
5. Read books about peace and recommend them to others
6. Say, “Hello” and “Thank you”
7. Build a diverse coalition
8. Meditate/Reflect
9. Clarify your core values
10. Spend time in nature
11. Don’t engage in violence
12. Embrace the power of music and the arts
13. Express your thoughts with charity
14. Say you’re sorry when necessary
15. Forgive other
16. Volunteer
17. Speak in a positive tone
18. Participate in community events
19. Display peace signs
As we continue to celebrate our 130th Anniversary, the Magdalene will host his year’s Interfaith Thanksgiving Service on Tuesday, November 26 with a reception following in the Weaver Parish Hall.
Blessings! And remember to KTF (Keep the Faith)
Fr. Tim
July 7, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
This time of the year, I receive questions about scapulars, one of many pious devotions to help nurture the faith of believers. A scapular, taken from a Latin word meaning “shoulder” consists of two pieces of cloth worn front and back over a person’s shoulders. When worn, the scapular can appear to be a small type of yoke that Jesus calls his believers to take upon themselves as they follow him (cf. MT 11: 28- 30). There is a tradition (which may not be historical) that Mary appeared to Saint Simon Stock, a leader of the Carmelites, and gave him a scapular, telling him to promote devotion it.
While growing up in Port Chester, I would visit Corpus Christi Church, the National Italian parish, for prayer. On the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, July 16, a brown scapular would appear on Mary’s statue annually. Curious about this religious item, I eventually purchased one and wore it for years until my arm was caught up in the scapular.
Believers wear the scapular for various reasons, including knowing and feeling God’s protection. Like other religious items, the scapular is not jewelry or a good luck charm. Religious articles have no power itself.
Black, green, blue, red, white! Throughout time, different colors were added to the traditional brown color. For example: Black is associated with the Seven Sorrows of Mary; Blue is associated with the Immaculate Conception. Red is associated with the Passion of Our Lord. Blue and Black are associated with the Confraternity of St. Michael the Archangel.
The Blessed Virgin of Mount Carmel has promised to save those who wear the scapular from the fires of hell, which will also shorten their stay in purgatory if they should pass from this world still owing some debt of punishment.
Certain conditions must be fulfilled:
1. Wear the Brown Scapular continuously.
2. Observe chastity according to one’s state in life.
3. Recite daily the little office of the Blessed Virgin or observe the fasts of the Church.
Despite the colors, promises, and conditions, the scapular reminds us of Mary’s maternal care for us!
Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us!
Fr. Tim
June 30, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
On July 4, 1776, our Founding Fathers made good on their dream of establishing one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. They signed The Declaration of Independence, officially declaring the U.S. free from British rule, and we’ve been observing the anniversary ever since. As we plan to celebrate the Fourth of July this year with family and friends, enjoying barbeques, picnics fireworks, we should take a moment to reflect on the meaning of the word freedom. What is freedom?
The Biblical definition of freedom. The Bible definition of freedom is the power and right to do that which is right and good according to God’s will. Freedom is a gift of the Spirit, who lives in us as believers and frees us from sin, the law, and the blindness of the world. Freedom is also a hope for the future glory that will be revealed in the heavenly life.
The Legal definition of freedom is: According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, freedom is the quality or state of being free. It is defined as the absence of necessity, coercion or constraint in choice or action. Freedom has a broad range of application from total absence of restraint to merely a sense of not being unduly hampered or frustrated.
May you be inspired by the following quotes on freedom:
- For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. (Galatians 5:13)
- “True patriotism springs from a belief in the dignity of the individual, freedom and equality not only for Americans but for all people on earth.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
- “One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, one nation, evermore!” — Oliver Wendell Holmes
- “This nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” — Abraham Lincoln
- “All the great things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope.” ― Winston Churchill
- “Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.” Martin Luther King
- “This Independence Day let us take time to thank God for the freedoms we enjoying this great country of ours and those who have sacrificed greatly to ensure those freedoms – Matthew Brown.
God Bless America! Fr. Tim
June 23, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
Because Christ Himself is present in the Sacrament of the altar, he is to be honored with the worship of adoration. “To visit the Blessed Sacrament is proof of gratitude, an expression of love, and a duty of adoration toward Christ our Lord” (Paul vi, MF 66).
Down in adoration falling,
This great Sacrament we hail;
Over ancient forms of worship
Newer rites of grace prevail;
Faith will tell us Christ is present,
When our human senses fail.
What a beautiful 2024 Corpus Christi Sunday! I sincerely thank all those who participated, including Adorers & Workers.
Fr. Tim
June 16, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
Creating a day for children to honor their fathers began in Spokane, Washington. A woman named Sonora Smart Dodd thought of the idea for Father’s Day while listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909.
Having been raised by her father, William Jackson Smart, after her mother died, Sonora wanted her father to know how special he was to her. Her father made all the parental sacrifices and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Sonora’s father was born in June, so she chose to hold the first Father’s Day celebration in Spokane, on the 19th of June 1910.
In 1926, a national Father’s Day Committee was formed in New York City. Father’s Day was recognized by a Joint Resolution of Congress in 1956. In 1972, President Richard Nixon established a permanent national observance of Father’s Day to be held on the third Sunday of June. So Father’s Day was born in memory and gratitude by a daughter who thought that her father and all good fathers should be honored with a special day just like we honor our mothers on Mother’s Day.
Here at The Magdalene this weekend, we will honor all Fathers in the Parish just as we honored all the Mothers.
What Makes A Dad?
Any man can be a Father, but it takes a special person to be called Dad.
God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle’s flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family’s need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so, He called —Dad!
—Author unknown
Fr. Tim
June 9, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
Whether you are a homeowner or renter, your property shows its wear and tear. Maintenance is always important, especially for liability purposes. Our Building Committee met with me on Thursday, April 4, and reported that the parish plant is in good shape overall. However, the following maintenance and improvement issues need to be addressed.
1). The cap on the wall between the church and the firehouse has been knocked over and is out of place. Replacement is needed.
2). All 4 exterior doors in the Education Center have severe rust on the bottom panels and need replacement.
3). There are extensive areas around the buildings where the green ivy vines are overgrown. Ivy needs to be pulled.
4). The stairwell on the side of the church and parts of the rectory porch need to be painted.
5). Mold remains in the closet of the Religious Education Director’s office. The closet needs to be painted.
6). Replace some of the light covers in the classrooms of the Education Center
7). The lights on the front porch of the rectory need to be replaced and upgraded (done).
8). Some masonry repair is needed at the bottom steps of the rectory porch.
9). The flagpole needs to be removed.
10). Repairs are needed on some of the kneelers in the left rear side of the church.
Over the summer, we will address these items as funds become available. If you own a business and wish to submit a bid, have the skill sets and want to donate your time, (the parish will pay for the materials costs), or wish to donate towards this endeavor, contact Mike Bassett (chair) at 914-774-5533 . Members of the Building Committee are Frank O’Donovan, Mike Doran, and Brian Geary.
Here is a thought: “Do you own the house/apartment or does it own you?”
KTF
Fr. Tim
June 2, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
Before Benediction at the 5 pm Vigil Mass on May 11, a parishioner asked, “Why Exposition?” Here’s the short version: The Church decided to launch a three-year program on the Eucharist and asked each parish to off er a Eucharistic event. As I published in a previous bulletin, the COTM will have an Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament on Saturday aft ernoons during Confession.
Here is a longer version: The Second Vatican Council in its Dogmatic Constitution Lumen Gentium (Light of the Peoples) described the Eucharist as the source and summit of the whole Christian life (LG 11). Three elements stand out in this affi rmation. The first is its character as a source: from the Eucharist, we draw strength and receive grace and inspiration for living as disciples of Jesus Christ and children of the Father. Secondly, is its condition of summit. This is the destiny, the fullness toward which everything is directed. Finally, the Magisterium of the Church speaks of the totality of a Christian life. The Eucharist is not just a devotion but the meaning of everything. We start the week with the Sunday Eucharist and we end the week with a Mass in Thanksgiving.
It’s sad to say that mass attendance has declined during the COVID pandemic, and return is slow post-COVID. For this reason, the U.S. bishops decided to launch a three-year program, which offi cially began on the Feast of Corpus Christi in June 2022: the “National Eucharistic Revival”. The fi rst year is a ‘Diocesan Year’, the second a ‘Parish Year’, and the third a ‘Mission Year’ starting with the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis July 17th – 21st 2024. The Mission of the Revival is “To renew the Church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.” For more information, visit: www.eucharisticrevival.org .
Today we celebrate the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ also known as Corpus Christi. This feast allows us to actively and visibly bring Jesus outside our churches and into our local streets and to increase our devotion to this great gift .
Weather permitting we will have a procession to our prayer garden aft er the 11:00 a.m. Mass. If inclement weather, Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament will be held aft er Mass. Please join us.
Ave Verum Corpus Christi!
Fr. Tim
May 26, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
Memorial Day, which marks the unofficial beginning of summer, is a day for parades, memorial services, picnics, and barbeques. “Taps” are played at memorial services and at graveside services. This custom is honored throughout the United States. When military honors are appropriate, they are observed near the conclusion of the graveside service: a flag is presented to mourners, guns are fired into the air, and “Taps” is played. The sound sends “chills down one’s spine and tears down one’s eyes”. It is with these four pitches, traditionally for a bugle, but can be played effectively on a trumpet, that we remember the deceased and those who fought and lost their lives in service to the country.
I am always impressed when “Taps” is played when participating in a Memorial Day service or presiding at a graveside service. Because of the melody’s connotations with swells, buglers play it for military funerals. So when we hear, “Taps”, we take comfort that the fallen are sleeping in heavenly peace.
A Prayer for World Peace
We pray for the power to be gentle;
The strength to be forgiving;
The patience to be understanding;
And the endurance to accept the consequences
Of holding on to what we believe to be right.
May we put our trust in the power of good to overcome evil
And the power of love to overcome hatred.
We pray for the vision to see and the faith to believe
In a world emancipated from violence,
A new world where fear shall no longer lead persons to commit
injustice, nor selfishness make them bring suffering to others.
Help us to devote our whole life and thought and energy
To the task of making peace,
praying always for the inspiration and the power
to fulfill the destiny for which all humans were created.
-Author Unknown
Fr. Tim
May 19, 2024
A NOTE OF THANKS II
GRATITUDE
Dear Parishioners,
At this time, I wish to thank the following catechists who have taught our children the Faith in both our Religious Education Program and the Catechesis and Aides of the Good Shepherd : Maria Crisafi, Suzanne Damato, Susan Fiorella, Dorothy Haase, Sarah Haase, James Hornby, Martha Maresco, Rosemarie McManus, Regina Molinelli, Christina Nappi, Karen Novelli, Toni O’Connor, Victoria Shields, Fr. Tim Wiggins, Barbara Zegarelli.
Fr. Tim
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Holy Communion
April 21
Religious Education Holy Communion
May 11
Religious Education & Catechesis of the
Good Shepherd Confirmation
May 3
May 5, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
Tempus Fugit! Time Marches! Here we are in the fifth month of 2024, May. The month is dedicated to our Blessed Mother. The following hymn is appropriate as we “kick off” Mary’s month.
Bring Flowers of the Rarest
Bring flowers of the rarest
Bring blossoms the fairest,
From garden and woodland and hillside and dale;
Our full hearts are swelling,
Our glad voices telling
The praise of the loveliest flower of the vale!
Chorus:
O Mary we crown thee with blossoms today!
Queen of the Angels and Queen of the May.
O Mary we crown thee with blossoms today,
Queen of the Angels and Queen of the May.
O Virgin most tender,
Our homage we render,
Thy love and protection,
Sweet Mother, to win.
In danger defend us,
In sorrow befriend us,
And shield our hearts
From contagion and sin.
Our Second Graders, in our Religious Education Program, will present flowers to Mary during their First Holy Communion on Saturday, May 11. This year Caroline Geary will crown Mary.
Throughout May, Marian hymns will be sung. Our very talented and capable cantors and organist will use their voices to render beautiful Marian hymns to honor Mary.
Sing of Mary!
Fr. Tim
April 28, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
On Wednesday, April 24, a small group of countries celebrates Administrative Professional Day, formerly known as Admin Day or Secretary Day. This day recognizes the professional who keeps an office organized and running smoothly every day. Administrative Assistants include secretaries, receptionists, and other administrative support professionals.
During WWII, there was an increased need for skilled administrative personnel. Even with modern technology, and a reduction in the labor force, it is nice to have a “REAL” person/face on the other end of the phone and at the door to meet, greet, and execute.
Here at The Magdalene, we are blessed with Maria Paese as our Administrative Assistant and Marianne Scott as our Receptionist. Both handle many administrative tasks. Those of you who have had the opportunity to come into contact with them, tell me that they are not only a pleasure but a treasure to The Magdalene. On behalf of Parishioners and Friends, whom they serve, I say “Thank You” with a fl oral tribute on behalf of ALL of us. We’re also grateful for past Administrative Assistants who have served you with great loyalty and distinction.
Fr. Tim
April 21, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
On this fourth Sunday of Easter, we are presented with two celebrations:
First, we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday. Jesus espouses the characteristics of a Good Shepherd. He is selfless, willing to lay down his life for the sheep. He is welcoming, and willing to lead those inside and outside his flock. He is faithful and willing to use his power for the greater glory of God. These are the types of characteristics we hope for in all leaders. Unfortunately, abuses of power are all too common in our world. How can we hold our leaders accountable? What would it be like to have “good shepherds” in positions of power within the government? Study your local leaders and commit to voting in the next election for morally strong leaders.
Second, we celebrate the 61st anniversary of the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. At today’s Mass, we pray for both callings to specific ways of life (priesthood, married, religious, single life) and for the many, varied, daily callings each of us experiences. Vocations are not like they were back in the day. While visiting St. Joseph’s Seminary during Holy Week, a parishioner and I toured the class photos gallery. As we walked the corridors, I noticed two trends: class pictures were very robust in numbers, but the numbers began to decline after the mid to late 70’s. In my class photo, 2002, there were six priests (4 archdiocesan priests and 2 religious). Also, I noticed the surnames reflected the waves of newly arrived immigrants. Will the class sizes continue to decline or will they increase? Prayers are powerful.
Third, please pray this prayer for an increase in vocations.
God our Father, thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son’s Kingdom as priests, deacons, and consecrated persons. Send your Holy Spirit to help others to respond generously and courageously to your call. May our community of faith support vocations of sacrifi cial love in our youth and young adults.
Finally, You can read MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS FOR THE 61st WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS “ Called to sow seeds of hope and to build peace” by scanning the bar code.
Fr. Tim
April 14, 2024
Dear Parishioners:
Throughout these weeks of Easter we read incredible stories of how the church is growing. These stories are recorded in the Acts of the Apostles did not unfold in secret, but in the open for all to see. Acts tell us the stories of what happened after Jesus’ resurrection and how people began to believe in him and follow his way.
The Magdalene is also growing sacramentally.
We welcome into the waters of Baptism: Becket Ethan Marr Bernardo Anthony Luciano, Emilia Anne, Tucci, Isabella Raine Carissimo, and Joseph Michael Lillis.
We welcome two couples through the Sacrament of Marriage. We welcome into the Church: Patty Cancro
We welcome into the parish the following families: Sandro and Melissa Carissimo, Suzanne Ferraro, Christopher and Kerry Scardino, Milan and Nicole Kana, Bridget Lillis, Roscoe and Kimberly Orman, Robert and Kathie Mackie, Eric and Katherine Straley, Daniel and Angela Lester, Matthew and Hayle Rodey,
14 children will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation
14 children will receive the Sacrament of First Eucharist
14 children will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The Magdalene needs to continue to grow. How? Consider becoming a:
● Lector, Eucharist Minister, altar server, usher, member of the music ministry, sacristy helper
● Volunteer as a catechist or catechist aid
● Member of the Hospitality Committee, Buildings & Grounds Committee, Altar Guild
● Member of the Women’s Bible Study
This coming July 21, we will celebrate our 130th Anniversary. The Parish Council is meeting and planning for this momentous occasion. Let us reflect on this question: What is a Parish? “A parish is a portion of the diocese under the care of a priest who is appointed to secure in virtue of his office as a pastor, the helps of religion for the faithful dwelling therein.” The faithful are called “parishioners.”
The Magdalene is a portion of the Archdiocese of New York in which many people dwell. The Archbishop assigns a pastor to serve the faithful in a parish.
With the collaboration of the Trustees, Finance Committee, Parish Council and staff, we work in tantum, volunteering our time and talents to help others grow in the religion we love and believe in so deeply.
Please think, pray, and make a sacrifice for the good of the parish. We need you to keep The Magdalene parish life flourishing TODAY and TOMORROW and for FUTURE generations to come.
In the Risen Lord,
Fr. Tim
March 31, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
O Come All Ye Faithful ! is one of the most traditional hymns sung at Christmas.
Jesus Christ Is Risen Today ! is one of the most traditional hymns sung on Easter Sunday! We sing the story over and over because of our great joy that death has been defeated and no longer reigns over us. This is the ultimate, joyful truth of God’s love for us.
As faithful people, we have journeyed for forty days, praying, abstaining, and fasting. Easter is commemorated with powerful symbols: washing of feet, ritual fire, oil, water, the Easter candle, chant, and more!
On this Easter Sunday, we rejoice that Jesus Christ has triumphed over sin and death for you and me, and for all who believe in him. We praise God for the triumph and hope of the Resurrection. The tomb is empty, and we thank God for those faithful disciples who went to the tomb early in the morning. What they experienced is Jesus’ resurrection, which is the foundation of our faith. This incredible event calls us to sing resurrectional hymns that increase our faith in the Risen Lord. What Easter hymn is in your heart? What Easter hymn emits from your vocal cords?
What Easter hymn fills your soul with resurrectional joy? My hymn is Alleluia, The Strife Is O’er. What are your reasons for singing with joy when you hear your favorite Easter hymn?
Jesus Christ is risen today; Alleluia!
Our triumphant holy day; Alleluia!
Who did once upon the cross; Alleluia!
Suffer to redeem our loss; Alleluia!
Hymns of praise then let us sing; Alleluia!
May we never cease to sing the Risen Lord’s praises!
Fr. Tim
March 24, 2024
Dear Parishioners,
Processions are not just a functional action of solemnly introducing the priest and other ministers to the sanctuary. They are also a visual expression of the people becoming a liturgical community of being together as a people of faith.
On Palm Sunday, the Mass may begin outdoors. The priest will bless the palm branches and proclaim the Gospel and then all process into the church. On Holy Thursday, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper does not conclude in the usual way. Instead, the procession forms right after communion. You are invited to join this procession, singing hymns and praying privately. During the Good Friday liturgy, you will be invited forward to venerate the cross. At the Easter Vigil, the blessing of the fire and lighting of the Easter candle takes place. The priest or deacon processes down the aisle singing, “Christ our Light”. The people then process into the dark church responding, “Thanks be to God.”
The processions of Holy Week draw us into the mystery of the death and resurrection of Christ. They also draw us closer to God as His pilgrim people. You are most welcome to process from your private homes to your spiritual home during Holy Week services. Holy Week, the most significant week in Catholicism, spans from Palm Sunday to Holy Saturday. It marks the final stretch before Easter Sunday, the celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection.
During this sacred week, Catholics all across the globe pray and reflect on the profound journey of Jesus’ suffering, sacrifice, and victory over death. Let us process with great love, joy, and devotion to The Magdalene.
We anticipate large crowds for our Holy Week Services. Please be mindful of our neighbors’ driveways. We are extremely grateful to the PHFH and the Union Church for allowing us to park on their properties.
The rectory will be closed on Good Friday.
Fr. Tim