Holy Orders (Priesthood or Diaconate) and Religious Life

Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate.

The word order in Roman antiquity designated an established civil body, especially a governing body. Ordination means incorporation into an ordo. In the Church there are established bodies which Tradition, not without a basis in Sacred Scripture, has since ancient times called taxeis (Greek) or ordines. And so the liturgy speaks of the ordo episcoporum, the ordo presyterorum, the ordo diaconorum. Other groups also receive this name of ordo: catechumens, virgins, spouses, widows, ....

Integration into one of these bodies in the Church was accomplished by a rite called ordinatio, a religious and liturgical act which was a consecration, a blessing or a sacrament. Today the word "ordination" is reserved for the sacramental act which integrates a man into the order of bishops, presbyters, or deacons, and goes beyond a simple election, designation, delegation, or institution by the community, for it confers a gift of the Holy Spirit that permits the exercise of a "sacred power" (sacra potestas) which can come only from Christ himself through his Church. Ordination is also called consecratio, for it is a setting apart and an investiture by Christ himself for his Church. The laying on of hands by the bishop, with the consecratory prayer, constitutes the visible sign of this ordination. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1536 - 1538. For more information see 1539 - 1600)

To meet the needs of our world and the Reign of God, our Catholic Church offers a wide spectrum of short-term or lifetime contemplative or active, domestic or missionary vocations as lay volunteers or members of secular institutes, as brother or sister, or a married or celibate deacon, as priest of a diocese or of a religious community. Printed resource materials (available at the Rectory or at St. Joseph Seminary), regional days of discernment and contact with people from these different groups will help find one's way among all the options possible.

"Christ has no body now but yours, no hands no feet on earth but yours." (St. Teresa of Avila)

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Sacrament of Matrimony

 Marriage, the wonderful sacrament of a shared decision to love, is not just the wedding celebration, but a lifelong commitment and mission, that needs very serious discernment and quality preparation. To have a valid marriage, Catholics are normally required to celebrate the Catholic wedding rite, even if one party is not a Catholic. The policy of the Archdiocese attempts to be consistent throughout all the parishes. It requires :

• That there be at least a six-month preparation by those intending to marry in the Church.
• Various documents must certify Baptism, Holy Communion, Confirmation and freedom to marry.
• Couples must meet with a priest and must attend formal marriage instruction, either an Engaged Encounter weekend or Pre-Cana Sessions, as part of the preparation.
• No wedding date can be set until a couple has talked to a priest about their intention to marry; then, they receive a detailed booklet to assist them with their preparations.
  

 

Natural Family Planning

Periodic continence, that is, the methods of birth regulation based on self-observation and the use of infertile periods, is in conformity with the objective criteria of morality. These methods respect the bodies of the spouses, encourage tenderness between them, and favor the education of an authentic freedom. In contrast, "every action which, whether in anticipation of the conjugal act, or in its accomplishment, or in the development of its natural consequences, proposes, whether as an end or as a means, to render procreation impossible" is intrinsically evil.

Thus the innate language that expresses the total reciprocal self-giving of husband and wife is overlaid through contraception, by an objectively contradictory language, namely, that of not giving oneself totally to the other. This leads not only to a positive refusal to be open to life but also to a falsification of the inner truth of conjugal love, which is called upon to give itself in personal totality. . . . The difference, both anthropological and moral, between contraception and recourse to the rhythm of the cycle. . . involves in the final analysis two irreconcilable concepts of the human person and of human sexuality.

"Let all be convinced that human life and the duty of transmitting it are not limited by the horizons of this life only: their true evaluation and full significance can be understood only in reference to man's eternal destiny." (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2370 - 2371. For more information see 2372 - 2379).

The Natural Family Planning Methods are advocated by the Church because they are good for your marriage, good for your family, good for your body and good for your soul. What are you waiting for? Get your marriage off to a good start, or rejuvenate a marriage that has been bogged down by contraception. There are currently two methods available:

Billings Method
The Billings Ovulation Method of Natural Family Planning is safe, effective and reliable; it is NOT the rhythm method. Call Carole Roadarmel at 937-8291 for more information.

Sympto-Thermal Method
This method uses three different types of natural observations to help cross check and identify fertile times in a woman. It can be used to postpone or to achieve pregnancy. Sympto-Thermal is taught through the Couple to Couple League.

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Marriage Encounter

Those involved in the Marriage Encounter Movement aid husbands and wives in the development of a closer relationship with one another, with their loved ones and with God. For information regarding weekend dates, contact the Parish office. Contact Jim & Patsy Bissin at 938-0446

Retrouvaille/Rediscovery/Descubrir

Do you feel lost and alone?

Are you hurt, frustrated, or angry with each other?

Have you thought about separation or divorce?

Are you constantly arguing?

Does talking about it only make it worse?

 If you are serious about making your marriage work, this program will be worthwhile for you.

What Is A Retrouvaille Program?
The Retrouvaille Program consists of a weekend experience with six post-weekend sessions. It is designed to provide the tools to help put ;your marriage in order again. The main emphasis of the program is on communication between husband and wife. It will give you the opportunity to rediscover each other and to examine your lives together in a new and positive way.

What The Program is Not
It is not a retreat, or a sensitivity group. There are no group dynamics or group discussions. It is not a time for hurting, but, it is a time for healing.

Whom Is It For?
It is for couples with troubled marriages including separated or divorced couples who want their marriages to work.

Do You Have To Be Catholic?
Retrouvaille is Catholic in origin and orientation. However, couples of all faiths are welcome.

What Happens In A Retrouvaille Program?
During the weekend phase, a series of presentations are given by a team of three couples and a priest. The team presents a technique of communication that enables you to take a good look at most areas of your relationship. After each presentation you have time in the privacy of your room to discuss the previous presentations.

The post-weekend phase is as crucial to the healing of a troubles marriage as the initial weekend experience. During the six post-weekend sessions, the technique learned on the weekend is further developed and is used to explore additional areas of the marriage relationship.

When?
On scheduled weekends beginning Friday evening, and closing with Mass Sunday evening.

What Does The Program Cost?
No couple is ever denied the chance to heal and renew their marriage because of a lack of funds. Each couple is asked to make an anonymous donation to help cover the cost of the program.

Couple Response
"The program has given us a second chance which I wouldn't have believed possible."

"I felt hopeful. For us, it was a new beginning after much darkness and pain."

"Our love was buried under bitterness and anger. The program dug it out."

"We had no communication. The program opened all lines and reconciled our marriage."

For registration or more information, please contact Steve & Maureen Salazar at 805-934-2936 or Rob & Lisa Bergan at 805-937-1961 or log on to www.retrouvaille.org

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Fifty Plus Club

Our Fifty Plus Club provides an opportunity for senior citizens to become involved with their peers in social and religious activities including tours, cruises and, best of all, many new friends who care about you. Contact Irene Voysey

Hospitality Committee

Our Ministry of Hospitality challenges us to live deeply our parish motto, "Becoming one Family in Christ." We minister to one another in our parish celebrations and other outreach; to the sick and needy through prayer and caring; and to new parish members through a special welcome program. We want our parish to be known as a Place of Welcome.

Homeless Shelter Services

Families who participate in this worthy project provide food for homeless families on a rotating basis. Our Parish provides meals on the first Friday of each month. Servers are also needed. It is a rewarding experience to be able to share with those less fortunate.

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Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus provide a wide spectrum of services within our parish and community. In addition to such parish activities as the fair, picnic, pancake breakfasts, etc., the Knights sponsor a Respect Life Sunday, youth teams and scouting. Our parish council #11137 meets the third Wednesday of each month in Modular One at 7:00 PM.

For information on the organization itself click HERE.

Sharing His Love

Jesus says, "Come to me all who are weary and find life burdensome and I will give you rest." Parish members are finding new ways to grow in their spiritual life by sharing God's love in our "Home Cell Groups." We meet in homes to sing, pray, share, and grow under the direction of the Holy Spirit. Between meetings we pray for each other and help one another as the need arises. Everyone is encouraged to invite family, friends, co-workers and neighbors.

 

Coming Home (formerly ROC)

This process is for the Catholic who has previously celebrated the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Eucharist, and is presently away from the Sacraments and regular Mass attendance.

The Church wants to reconcile with you and help you return to the table of the Lord and to an active Catholic life as a disciple of Jesus Christ. The Church also wants to help you return to your baptismal heritage.

If you are an angry or inactive Catholic, or if you are questioning the Church:

• There is hope!
• Remember that you have a right to belong to the church by virtue of your baptism. God does not abandon you as you struggle through life, not even when you fail. God's love, forgiveness, and peace are always available to you.
• Accept that love right now. Claim it, for it is yours.
• It's okay to "shop around" on Sunday mornings. Find a parish where the worship and community feel comfortable for you, where you feel welcome, and where you can share your gifts.
• We ask your patience and forgiveness. As Church, we are human: we make mistakes.
• Find a good adult religious education program to update your faith and theology. Explore the Church's history, its constant change and evolvement over the centuries, and its reaction to and interaction with cultural influence.
• Start with one step; don't give up. Reach out and continue your search, no matter how small each effort may seem. Continue to grow.
• Be patient with yourself. Rest in God's love; trust the Holy Spirit to work in your life, to get you through the hard spots.
• Accept Jesus' gift of salivation - no strings attached.
• Comb through the Scriptures for the stories of Jesus that tell you about love, forgiveness, and your own goodness.
• Pray - for yourself, for the Church, for all of us.
• Know that you are a part of our daily prayers as well.
• Seek out a place and means to express your anger and confusion; find church representatives who will listen to you, and who are role models you can respect, not just authority figures.

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Overview of the process at St. Louis de Montfort Church

You may call the Rectory for information about this Ministry or request a contact from a ROC Team member. There will be a series of eight weekly meetings where you can discuss issues relevant to your separation, receive catechesis and share in Scripture. You can attend the entire series or just a portion until your needs are met. The goal of all sessions is to provide a confidential and nonjudgmental atmosphere that allows separated Catholics a place to be heard - a sacred place to discuss changes in the Church, old rules, misinformation regarding marriage situations, hurt feelings or any other topic. We are here for you and realize we are incomplete without you. Please join us. New sessions begin in September, following Christmas and following Easter, but we're always available. We may be reached at (805) 937-4555. We'll be waiting!

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Personal Testimonies of Previously Separated Catholics

"When I came back I felt like a light turned on inside of me, that filled me with love, hope, joy and peace." (J.C. age 23)

"It was like coming home." (A.V. age 34)

"Coming from a broken family, I felt unconnected. Returning to the Church, I am 'rooted' and deeply value the tradition, stability and guidance Mother Church offers me, but mostly the Eucharistic meal." (J.M. age 41)

"After 30 years of restlessness and anxiety, I now have the peace that only Christ gives - I am home." (D.T. age 47)

"Our children grew tired of attending various Sunday schools with friends; they wanted to attend church 'as a family.' I confronted my pastor with my questions, grievances and old hurts which were replaced by an overwhelming sense of love and belonging. I am still so grateful to be back." (J.I.M. age 47)

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The Legion of Mary

The Legion of Mary is an action organization, an apostolate which is truly a lifetime vocation, and can be accommodated on a part-time basis. Legionnaires reach out from hearts that are tuned to the voice of the Spirit. They reach out into the hearts of the un-churched, those thousands of dear ones who deep down are longing for the encouragement, the warmth, the love of fellow Christians who live, not to criticize, but to heal.

Mary, the loving, concerned, always available one. Mary is the Legionary's model. Legionaries act but are not activists. Works of active members are: visiting their auxiliary, or praying member; teaching CCD; visiting rest or convalescent homes; visiting shut-ins; Eucharistic ministry to the home bound; and the Legion's choice work: door-to-door evangelization. Members are available to assist our pastor in whatever ways are requested. Membership is open to all practicing Catholics (men and women). The 1-1/2 hour meeting is held Friday afternoons at 3:30 PM in the school library. Our active works require two hours of your time each week.

Joining the Legion of Mary as an active member will help you:
· To see Christ in others and to serve Him there.
· To become a holier person within yourself.
· To work hand in hand with Mary our mother.
· To submit yourself to the Holy Spirit.
· To do great things for God and for the salvation of souls.
Please consider this ministry as part of your sacrificial giving of time and talent. Contact Ann Sherry at 934-1867.

Marian New Life for Crisis Pregancy

When you call, there will be no judgments, just the assistance you need and ask for in confidentiality: pregnancy testing, counseling, clothing or accessories, referrals, any assistance needed. Free of charge. We care about you. Contact Rosie Castillo 349-2273

Catholic Charities

This organization has a food pantry, clothing and thrift store. They can help people with housing and financial assistance and referrals. Contact David Coehlo at 922-2059 or the Catholic Charities Thrift Shop at 922-4174.

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Respect-Life

Every human life has its origin in the heart of God

Mission Statement:

To proclaim with love the Gospel of Life so as to bring about a Culture of Life in our parish and community.
Strategy:
Work with relevant parish and community organizations to integrate Gospel of Life principles into the total educational, liturgical, and ministerial functions of the organizations.
Objectives:
Spiritual -
Promote and participate in Pro Life prayer walks, prayers in front of abortion clinic, weekly adorations, and days of fasting.

Educational -
· Organize and operate respect life educational booths at Cross of Peace conference, Country Strawberry Festival, County Fair and other community events of opportunity.
· Conduct Respect Life night with parish Confirmation classes.
· Distribute NCCB Life Insight publications to local churches.
· Stock and maintain Pro Life literature rack in church.
· Provide speakers and programs on Pro Life issues to parish and community organizations.
· Write monthly Pro Life articles for K of C Navigator newsletter.
· Conduct press conferences and write media articles on Pro Life topics prominent in the news.
· Distribute information on legislation related to Pro Life issues when requested by Archdiocesan Respect Life Office.

Service -
· Help to organize and conduct fundraisers and benefit Catholic Counseling Services, Marian New Life and other Respect Life organizations and programs.
Promote and recruit volunteers for other Respect Life related ministries.

Contact Priests for Life at PO Box 141172, Staten Island, NY 10314; Tel: 888-PFL-
3448, 718-980-4400; Fax: 718-980-6515; email: mail@priestsforlife.org; web:
www.priestsforlife.org

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