Fourth Sunday of Easter

News and Notes:  We will be celebrating First Holy Communion at Sunday liturgies in both parishes on the weekend of April 30 and May 1: Saturday April 30 at both 4PM Masses; and all Sunday morning Masses in the Collaborative except the 7AM OLA Mass on May 1. These Masses will not be much longer than the ordinary Sunday iturgies.  Come and lend your welcome and spiritual support to our second graders as they receive the Lord’s Body and Blood for the first time.  Here is the latest Catholic Appeal update:  as of April 5, St. Maria Goretti parishioners had pledged $39,825 which is an amazing 143% of their 2016 goal.  Congratulations and many thanks to all those who have helped SMG surpass its goal!  The parish also exceeded its in-pew pledge quota of donors.  As a result, 65% of every dollar pledged and paid for above SMG’s fair share assessment of $27,797 will come back to St. Maria’s to help pay for their parish expenses.  Thus far, Our Lady of the Assumption parishioners have pledged $44,353, which is 81% of their goal of $54,938, also a very fine performance.  Thanks to the OLA folks who have donated to the 2016 Catholic Appeal.  I heartily encourage all parishioners from both parishes to make a pledge in whatever amount they can to support the 50+ Central Ministries of the Catholic Church in eastern Massachusetts and their respective parish as well.  Blessings to all of you in the week ahead!