Fourth Sunday of Easter

News and Notes: During the first few weekends of May, the second grade children in OLA School and the Faith Formation programs of both our parishes will celebrate their First Holy Communion.  The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic life.  It is a meal of consecrated bread and wine that provides divine nourishment  for the faithful; it is a memorial that makes present in the here and now Christ’s once and for all sacrifice on the cross; it a Sacrament that feeds us with no less than the real presence of Christ, his very Body and Blood.  Holy Communion bestows many graces, among them:  it separates us from sin; it strengthens our charity and wipes away our venial sins; it preserves us from mortal sins; it is the supreme expression of unity in the Church; and it commits us to serving the poor.  Let’s pray that with the support and example of their parents and others, our young communicants will draw nourishment and strength from the Eucharist in their lifelong journey of faith. 

Here is an update on our performance thus far in the 2018 Catholic Appeal.  As of March 30, St. Maria Goretti families had pledged $27,180, which is 72% of the SMG goal of $37,832; and Our Lady of the Assumption families had pledged $41,270, which is 66% of the OLA goal of $62,343.  Thanks to all of our parishioners who are helping us meet and exceed our fair-share assessment in the Catholic Appeal this year.  Each paid pledge over a given parish’s assessment will yield up to a 50% rebate to that parish.  If you have not yet made a pledge to the 2018 Catholic Appeal, pledge cards are available at the front and side entrances of our churches.  Just fill one out and pass it in the collection box or send it to our Collaborative Office Building at 17 Grove St.  You can also go online to www.bostoncatholicappeal.org to make a pledge.  Join me in making a donation to the Catholic Appeal, which funds over 50 Central Ministries in our local Church, ministries that are so vital in carrying out the mission that Christ has entrusted to us.  Blessings to all of you in the Easter week ahead!