As the Parish of Saint Catherine of Siena we are a community of disciples of Jesus Christ. In communion with our Archbishop and the Roman Catholic Church throughout the world, we proclaim the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and His Gospel.
Through our life of worship, we acknowledge our need for the love and mercy of God and we welcome all to share in them. Through our ministries and service, we seek to form our members more deeply as disciples of Jesus and to make present, in our own times, the love and peace of the dawning Kingdom of God.
Our first reading this weekend focuses our attention on the universality of God; His universal call to all peoples, all whom He has created and desires to have come home to Him in Eternal Life. The Book of Numbers also directs us to consider the power of God’s Holy Spirit that it is not limited by time and space but rather as is God is semi-eternal
For nearly 5 years now I have had the privilege to work with our Archdiocesan Catholic schools and our parish-based faith formation leaders. I have learned so much from all of these dedicated Catholic workers. I asked Archbishop Coyne if I might now return to parish work fulltime, and he graciously accepted my resignation and provided for my return to fulltime parish ministry effective October 1. It is my “sure and certain hope” that I will not see torches at the rectory after this announcement?!?
This Sunday’s readings prepare us to reflect on Christ’s identity and our own identity as a Catholic as well as on our faith in general and the cost of being a follower (disciple) of Christ in the world around us.
Each reading this weekend is replete with symbolism, especially the Gospel, which should help us to dig deeper into the meaning—the why behind the thou shalt nots of our faith.
Our gospel this Sunday is rich in Catholic tradition illustrated by a man who is deaf and mute, who comes to Jesus by the faith of others, and then there is the resulting praise of others. These are all important faith-filled issues to consider
We are asking our younger parishioners, who are in grade four (4) and higher, for your help: please consider being an altar server. The altar server assists the priest and provides essential services for the smooth celebration of the Mass. If you would like to consider being an altar server here at St. Catherine of Siena, please call the parish office at 860 658 1642 or send an email to stcathy@comcast.net
Women’s Service Ministry Bake Sale Saturday, October 19th & Sunday, October 20th, after all Masses. Bakers needed, helpers needed. Please drop off your baked goods Saturday by 4 p.m. and label them “Bake Sale.” Proceeds will benefit the NCCF, Northwest CT Community Foundation-their mission is to invest in the power of women and the dreams of girls. SIGN UP HERE!
Lifesong MinistryLooking for fall and winter jackets, fleece, sweaters and sweatshirts. All sizes. Please drop in the labeled box in the church vestibule. Thank you.
Diane Whittemore, 860-913-0241
Parishioner’s Corporal Works of Mercy
Feed the Hungry- Saturday, October 19th. There are 4 ways to help: Serve lunch in person, Prepare a cold salad, Bake 12 cupcakes, Make sandwiches. All salads, sandwiches and cupcakes should be delivered by 9:30 a.m. Saturday. Questions? Rich Sickinger, 860-558-6940, (richsickinger@gmail.com
Pantry Partners- The next distribution date for Pantry Partners will be October 19th. We have a great new partnership with Big Y in Simsbury which has greatly enhanced the variety of produce we are able to provide to over 25 local families. The Big Y team is excited to help the Parish in our ministry. Street Sandwich Ministry-Sandwiches are still needed for the October Street Sandwich Ministry is scheduled for Saturday, October 19th, Sunday, October 20th, and Monday, October 21st (until 9:30 a.m.). No condiments or lettuce. Earn Confirmation Hours too!
St. Elizabeth’s House- SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19th. St. Elizabeth House is a transitional housing program for previously homeless adults who are looking to change their lives. Please join us in preparing and serving a meal to the residents at St. Elizabeth House. Thank you for your service! St Elizabeth House Sign Up
Comitas is a parish ministry created to give families nutritional support and to allow them to focus on other important needs such as bereavement or recovery from illness. Comitas volunteers receive occasional requests for help in providing meal assistance to and can choose to assist if it works with their schedule to the family in need. Please consider joining this amazing volunteer ministry. Prayerfully consider joining the 20+ year ministry. If you are in need of support or know someone in need of meal assistance help, please reach out to the office or to Karen Corriveau at stcathycomitas@gmail.com.
The Parish Prayer Line Do you have a special intention or know someone who needs special prayers? Our Prayer Ministry has over 40 people who daily pray for the intentions submitted to our Prayer Line. To request prayers, please call the parish prayer line at 860-658-1642/option 8 and record your request. All requests are kept confidential.
Want to join our Ministry, call Eileen Landi at 860-490-5472 or email at eileenlandi@gmail.com