Eleventh Sunday of Ordinary Time

News and Notes:  I had the privilege of leading the Invocation and Benediction prayers at the recent Lynnfield Memorial Day service at the Middle School Auditorium on May 30.  In addition, Deacon Tom O’Shea and I were slated to offer prayers for deceased veterans that day at several cemeteries in Lynnfield, but rain washed out the parade portion of the festivities.  Thanks to Bruce Siegel, who is a St. Maria Goretti parishioner and the Agent for Veterans Affairs in the town of Lynnfield, for his work in organizing and serving as Master of Ceremonies for the Memorial Day service…and to Marie Lagman, our soon-to-be Media Ministry Director, for capturing this event with photos that she posted on the SMG Facebook page as well as the monitor with a rolling screen of pictures and information in the vestibule of the church.  Several other St. Maria’s parishioners were present and participated at this service, including Chris Barrett and John Anthony Tavano who had speaking roles.  With summer and the end of school fast approaching, please register your child for Religious Education classes in your particular parish for the upcoming academic year 2016-2017 if you have not done so already.  I encourage everyone to consider becoming an online donor to your respective parish.  Attendance at Mass (and offertory income) tends to decrease during the summer months but I assure you, our expenses do not go on vacation.  Online giving ensures that you can continue to support your community of faith when you are away, and do so in a very convenient manner.  Contact Caterina Benitez, our Finance and Operations Manager, at our Collaborative Office Building on Grove Street if you need assistance.  Blessings to all of you in the week ahead!