Parishioners and community members are welcome to attend Holy Masses for the homebound and the sick on Thursdays at 7:15 PM. You can pray for your intention or for someone else. “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord…” — James 5:14.
Upcoming dates for Healing Holy Mass: Thursday June 9, 16, 23, 30 at 7:15 PM.
Prayers of Sympathy and condolences to Angela Gulla (formerly Bucci) and her family on the loss of her mother and our dear sister in faith Letizia Gulla
Wake service will be Friday May 27, 2011 from 2 – 4 PM and from 7 to 8 PM at the Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton, NJ. Fr. Joseph will offer prayers at the Funeral Home at 3PM. Requiem Holy Mass on Saturday, May 28th at 9:30 AM.
Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace. Amen
GULLA – Letizia (nee Casella), 85, of Paterson, formerly of Passaic, passed away on May 26, 2011. Born in Gioiosa Marea, Messina, Sicily, Mrs. Gulla came to the United States in 1953 and settled in Passaic. She lived there for many years before moving to Paterson in 1992. Prior to her retirement, she was the owner of Lydia’s Dress Shop in Passaic for many years. Mrs. Gulla was a former parishioner of St. Anthony R.C. Church in Passaic.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Anthony Gulla, Sr. in 1992.
Survivors include: her devoted daughters, Rosemary Furtek of Wayne and Angela Gulla of Little Falls; her devoted sons, Anthony Gulla, Jr. of Blairstown and Rossano Gulla of Westfield; seven loving grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
During Chrism Mass we were inspired by Bishop John Mack’s sermon that God gave us gift of hands as a blessing for others. God created this beautiful world and gave us life. Jesus our Savior used his hands to heal, feed, encourage and bless so many.
Enjoy the song “One Pair of Hands” composed by Carroll Robertson and performed by Elvis.
During the Lenten time all of us should remember personal prayers, to read and reflect on Holy Scripture, and to attend the liturgy of Sunday Mass. Fasting – we are called to abstain from meat on Wednesdays and Fridays for those who are 14 years old and above and are otherwise physically able. During Holy Week we abstain from meat from Wednesday through Saturday in preparation for the Lord’s resurrection and in recognition of all He did for us.
You are invited to attend Lenten Devotions to reflect on the redemptive sufferings and death of our Lord on Wednesdays at 7:15 P.M.
Ash Wednesday – The Beginning Of Lent
On Wednesday, March 9, 2011 the Church begins the season of Lent. On that day two Masses will be celebrated: at 12:00 P.M. with the Blessing and distribution of Ashes and at 7:15 p.m. with the Blessing and distribution of Ashes. Beginning on Ash Wednesday we are called to repent, to change our minds about the way we live our lives in the sight of God.
Wednesday Lenten Devotions
March 16, 2011 @ 7:15 PM — Bitter lamentations #1
March 23, 2011 @ 7:15 PM — Stations of the Cross (Youth Group members and 1st Holy Communion Students)
March 30, 2011 @ 7:15 PM — Bitter Lamentations #2
April 6, 2011 @ 7:15 PM — Stations of the Cross (Youth Group members and 1st Holy Communion Students)
April 22, 2011 – Good Friday @ 3 PM — Stations of the Cross with youth and children participation
Alms Box
Our parish traditionally uses the Alms Box in the vestibule of the church for the benefit of the poor. Please continue to support this great cause to help the less fortunate of our society particularly as a sacrifice during Lent. “When you give alms, your left hand must not know what your right is doing – your almsgiving must be secret, and your father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.” — Matthew 6:3-4.
Our Annual Parish Meeting will be held on second Sunday of February, February 13th after 9 AM Holy Mass. The second Holy Mass will be at 12:00 PM (please note that the hour of the Mass has been changed). There will be light refreshment after the 9 AM Holy Mass. The School of Christian Living will have a program provided by high school youth in the Fr. John Slysz building. All the societies of our parish are asked to give annual report from year 2010 and a report of their projects for the year 2011.
Another important aspect of our Annual Parish Meeting will be the election of the Parish Committee. The Parish Committee is the council, which meets once per month (usually for about 1 hour on the 3rd Wednesday evening of the month) to discuss concerns and make decisions for the parish. Would you consider serving on this committee? Please contact Fr. Joseph or Dominick Bucci for additional information.
God bless you for your dedication in serving the needs of your fellow parishioners and our Holy Catholic and democratic Church.
If you wish to have your home/apartment blessed during Epiphany Pastoral Visitations, please contact Fr. Joseph by calling 973-256-4888. The blessing of homes takes place from Christmas until the season of Lent.
Brothers and Sisters, On Behalf of the National United Youth Association Board and its President Lauren Bilinski, may I take this opportunity to invite you to share in a ministry project.
By now, I’m sure you have no doubt heard of the report that Lauren had made to the 23rd General Synod. Therein she had asked all of us to participate in “Operation Christmas Child”. For some of you, this is an annual project in your parish; for some, this may be new. Your participation involves filling shoeboxes with various items that a child would like to have (small toys, personal hygiene items, crayons, coloring books; well, you get the idea.) Along with your box, Samaritan’s Purse will provide a copy of the Scriptures in that child’s language, so that the whole story of God’s love will be shared. I have provided a sheet of labels that you can place in your box -just indicate whether it is for a boy or a girl and their age. Feel free to place a greeting from your parish in your box(es); there is a good chance you’ll receive a reply. After filling as many as your congregation is able, you need to check out the Samaritan’s Purse website to find out where the closest collection point is in your area. The website is also filled with helpful hints, downloadable and requested promotional materials. They do ask a small donation for each box to help with the shipping.
I remember the year our parish received a card back from a young girl in Zimbabwe. She wrote that she enjoyed all the gifts in the box; and learning about Jesus. What a gift we can give to someone we will probably never ever meet somewhere in the world – a joyful gift and the joy of Jesus! The collection week is 15-22 November; so get busy fillin’! And may our gracious Lord bless whatever sacrifice you make for His kids!. Fr. Stan, Chaplain.
Dear Youth – You are all invited to participate in this worthwhile project. In our parish hall you can see one shoe box already filled in. Bring empty shoe box and any items you can donate for the children who will greatly appreciate your Christmas Gift. – Fr. Joseph.
On Sunday September 12, 2010 after 11 AM Mass we enjoyed the Spaghetti Dinner. Dominick Bucci and Edward Obssuth worked in the kitchen to prepare the food.
School of Christian Living classes started on Sunday, September 12th. Pictured are teachers from left – Mrs. Jamie Santos, Mrs. Claire Centrella, Mrs. Karen Paulison, Alissa Paulison – teachers aid and Mrs. Natalie Lazar. Mrs. Natalie joined the group of teachers teaching the 6 and 7 years old students. We welcome her and wish happiness from serving the children of our parish. That day the following students came for the class from left Amber Harth, Ned Kiame, Michael Cyman, Andres Aldas, Nicholas Desch, Chris Paulison, Justin Palman, Josephine Palman with her mom Patricia, Gabriella Rotsaert and Neil Kiame. The picture was taken by Nayef Kiame. We ask parents to bring their children for SOCL cases and take advantage of wonderful program is provided for them.
On Saturday Sept. 25, 2010 our parish organized Country Western Square Dance Night. It was a Buffet Style Dinner with great Menu: Chili, Baked Beans, Cornbread, Barbecued Spare Ribs, Pulled Pork and Chicken, Corn on the Cob, Potato Salad, Pickles & Olives – Watermelon, Lemonade, Coffee and Desserts and Entertainment provided by Ron Kapnick who taught us Square Dance and Calling. 50/50 and Raffle – Basket of Cheer took place. We thank Deacon David and his wife Laurie Gaydos who with the help of Michael Merson and Dominick Bucci prepared the fantastic meal. The net profit of the dinner was $1,439. We thank Deacon David and Laurie Gaydos for donation of food and those who brought delicious desserts.
Ron Kapnick giving Square Dance instructions Couples and participants enjoying Country Western NightCountry Western Night guests watched a display of the fireworks from the church parking lot. The fireworks were presented by the organizers of Woodland Park Day.
On Sunday September 26, 2010 the Shopping Certificates Sale offered beautiful mums for everyone who purchased at least $50 in shopping certificates in appreciation for their support of this fundraiser. The great news is that recently the Shopping Certificate sales deposited a second thousand dollars into our Building Fund. We appeal for more parishioners to participate in this project to raise more for the Building Fund. Please join us.
Karen Paulison, Richard Daum and Gabriella Rotsaert, and John and Verna Swider with their beautiful flowers. Thank you and all who participated in this fundraiser.
We thank Lucy Daum, Merry Sleece and Richard Daum for selling shopping certificates. We thank Richard Daum who brought in mums for this occasion.
The Melissa Centrella Scholarship Foundation Beefsteak with Tricky Tray took place in our parish hall on Saturday, September 11th. The church hall was filled with maximum capacity with those who supported this worthwhile event.
PRAYERS OF SYMPATHY: We express our sympathy to Gene Kapchonick on the loss of her husband, George Kapchonick (92) who passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 17, 2010. Our condolences to his daughter, Alice of Little Falls, his brother, Basil Kapchonick of Maryland; and his sister, Ann Sagaert of California. George Kapchonick was born in Paterson, NJ he lived in West Paterson and Little Falls before moving to Toms River. George was a Letter Carrier with the Little Falls, NJ Post Office for thirty years before his retirement. He was a United States World War II Navy Veteran, serving as a ship fitter second class. He received the Asiatic Pacific Theater Philippine Liberation Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and one Battle Star. George was our active parishioner for many years helping with the maintenance and several fundraisers. He also was a life member of V.F.W. Post 10185, Toms River. George’s funeral services took place on Tuesday, September 21st. He was buried at the East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
YOUTH MEETING: On Sunday, September 19th the following youth attended the youth meeting: Jason Cabrejos, Jasmine Cabrejos, Michael Cyman, Eddy Obssuth, Emily Fernendez, Veronica Reyes, Elizabeth Fernandez. We thank Juan Reyes for his input to bring together this meeting and we thank Edward and Beverly Obssuth, Nelly Cabrejos, and Teresa Yi parents for their support. The youth who participated in CONVO 2010 event Jason, Jasmine, Eddy and Michael shared their memories. It was a great event. At the meeting the youth planned the following: Cooking together / Exercise to keep good health / Exhibitions of our hobbies / Talent shows performed by our youth / Invite informative speakers / Organize safety plan for the families / Field trips / Help the church with social events and fundraiser, etc. The next youth meeting is scheduled for Sunday October 17, 2010 after 11 AM Holy Mass in the parish hall.
ANS NEWS: On Sunday, September 19th the Adoration Society members: Alice Kriskewic, Karen Peano, Stella Skawinski, Nelly Cabrejos and Renata Cyman with Fr. Joseph attended NY/NJ Seniorate ANS Convention which was held at Transfiguration of the Lord Parish, Wallington, NJ. The Prime Bishop Robert Nemkovich and his wife Florence attended this event. Prime Bishop gave presentation on how to increase the membership of ANS. To join the membership ladies need to be 16 and not 65 or older. He encouraged members to ask for help younger generation.
SPÓJNIA SUNDAY: On Sunday, September 26th we celebrated the Polish National Union of America and prayed for all deceased members as well as for blessing and growth of our fraternal organization.
NEW LECTORS: In September two new lectors joined to serve Holy Cross Church – Jasmine Cabrejos and Alissa Paulison. Thank you.
ANNUAL BLESSING OF PETS: Will take place on Sunday, October 3rd at the beginning of the 11 o’clock Holy Mass. The Mass will take place in the parish hall. Well behaved dogs, cats, fish, birds and all God’s creatures are invited with their owners. The blessing will be given in commemoration of Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi (Oct. 4). As we know, animals trusted St. Francis and he treated them with courtesy. Near the end of his life St. Francis composed a song of praise and thanks to God for all his creations, called “Canticle to Brother Sun” – also known as the “Canticle of the Creatures.” From this song we know that St. Francis did not perceive himself isolated from other creatures. He simply assumed that all creatures – not only humans – form one family of creation. So we are encouraged to bless and praise God with cats, dogs, birds and all God’s creatures.
ALL SOULS DAY ENVELOPES: Are available in the vestibule of the church. On Tuesday, November 2nd the Church will celebrate All Souls Day. On that day the Masses with the reading of All Souls remembrances will be held at 12 PM and 7:30 PM. It is our Catholic custom to remember the souls of the faithful departed on that day and throughout the entire month of November. The reading of All Souls Remembrances will take place after the 9:00 A.M. and 11:00 A.M. Holy Masses on Sunday, October 31st. Please use the All Souls Day envelopes printing the names of the departed you wish to remember and send it to the parish office or place it in Sunday collection basket. You may also E-mail the names. The envelopes with the names will be kept on the altar during the month of November. In addition to that, Father Joseph will celebrate Holy Masses for their intentions in upcoming weeks and months. Please suggest the date when you wish to have the Holy Mass celebrated for the intention of your departed loved ones. Thank You.
ALL SOULS CEMETERY SERVICE: Will take place on Sunday, October 31st in the PNCC section of East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton beginning at 2:00 p.m. For this annual event the clergy and faithful from four parishes, SS Peter and Paul, Passaic, Transfiguration of Our Lord, Wallington, The Most Holy Name of Jesus, Passaic, and from our Holy Cross Parish, Woodland Park are invited to attend. Please remember your departed loved ones who need your prayers and they depend upon your remembrance.
TRICKY TRAY: In October our greatest fundraiser “Luck of the draw” Tricky Tray will take place on Friday, October 22, 2010. Let us make our best to use and share our God’s given talents for the well being of our parish. You received mail about this event and your captain may have called you asking for donations. We need more regular and super trays. Please see the special flyer and advertise OUR event.
It is our hope that every organization and group of our parish would increase its membership. Ask others to join. With the beginning of the regular parish life I noticed an increase of Sunday Mass attendance. It is very important for the life of the parish and for your spiritual growth to regularly attend Sunday Liturgy on the day of the Resurrection of our Lord. Each Sunday our Savior invites us to nourish with His Word and His real presence in the Holy Eucharist. We all need Jesus; we need His guidance, His support, and His love.
I remember you each day in my prayers. Please keep me in your prayers. May God richly bless you,
My Dear Parishioners and Friends, some important events took place at Holy Cross Church in July and August.
The beautiful summer with good adventures is almost ended. Our children went back to school to continue their education. The children were ready to go back to school so were their parents. 🙂
The regular schedule of our parish ministry begins today, September 12, 2010. The School of Christian Living program starts as well and our teachers are eager to hear children’s summer stories. The teachers Mrs. Karen Paulison, Mrs. Claire Centrella, Mrs. Jamie Santos, and Mrs. Natalie Lazar who joined the faculty along with substitute teachers Mrs. Karen Peano and Mrs. Carol Montero are ready to serve our children for their spiritual benefit in school year 2010 – 2011. We keep in our prayers Mrs. Michele Lazor and wish her successful medical treatment with a speedy and recovery.
ACOLYTE RETREAT: From Tuesday June 29, 2010 to Friday July 2, 2010 the Central Diocese Acolyte Retreat took place at Bp. Hodur Retreat and Recreation Center, Waymart, PA. Almost forty participants came from several parishes of our diocese including five altar servers from our parish: Nayef, Ned, Neil Kiame, Michael and Natalie Cyman. All participants had time to pray during Mass, before meals and before going to sleep. They enjoyed playing different games indoors and outside. They did swim in the pool with the presence of the life guard. Yes, the water was warm which helped adults to join as well. The pool was used every day. Participants hiked to the shore of Keen Lake – see the picture. They listened to interesting presentations at the retreat center (picture). The weather was excellent except one chilly night. The bon fire on Thursday made all of us one friendly family.
CONGRATULATIONS: On Sunday June 27, 2010 at the 11 AM Mass the Sacrament of Baptism received Gavin Estuardo DePrizo, son of Richard and Connie DePrizio. Godparents were Robert and Barbara DePrizio. On behalf of Holy Cross Church we congratulate Gavin, his big brother Tristan, parents, grandparents, family members and friends.
Dominick Bucci and his son David Bucci are in front of Fr. John Slysz Building fixing the flower planter. We thank them also for painting the railing and with Justin Obssuth power washed the Sunday School building, placed new mulch around shrubs and in the planters on the church premises. Justin cleaned the church parking lot. . We thank them for sharing their time and talent for the good of our parish.
CONVO 2010: The following students from our parish attended the PNCC biennial Youth Convocation held at the Monmouth University, Long Branch, NJ – July 26 – 30th 2010: Jason Cabrejos, Jasmine Cabrejos, Edward Obssuth Jr., Michael Cyman and two chaperones Judy Lamping and Fr. Joseph.
It was a great time of prayer, reflection, educational sessions, and fun. In the group picture (196 participants) Youth, Clergy, and Chaperones at COVO 2010 visiting Ellis Island. A prayer service was held at the plaque commemorating Bishop Hodur’s arrival in the United States
WE EXPRESS OUR THANKS TO: Italo Palman – a handy man – for installing a new gas valve in the church kitchen stove; installing new faucet on the wall facing the parking lot. Please support his business as he supports our church. See his ad in the church bulletin – tel. 201- 588-7157.
WELCOME NEW FAMILY: – We are glad to welcome Jason and Christine Tiseo and their precious daughters, Isabel and Patricia Rose as our newest addition to Holy Cross Church. On Sunday August 29, 2010 we enjoyed the celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism of their daughter Patricia Rose. Godparents were Vincent Valerian and Ashley Carter. Best wishes to Tiseo Family we hope that the Holy Cross Church will be their second home, a place of spiritual growth and social contentment.
Mystery Photo was revealed. The picture was taken of the missal located on the altar in our church. Correct answer was given by Monica Lukowiak.
My Friends, we all have the privilege to worship our Lord on Sunday. God’s commandments “Keep Holy the Lord’s Day” is reminding us about it. It is in the church where we present personal intentions to the Lord. In turn each Sunday our Savior nourishes us with His Word and His real presence in the Holy Eucharist. We all need Jesus, His guidance, support, and His love. May God richly bless you.
I keep you in my daily prayers. Please remember me and my family in your prayers.
GULLA – Letizia (nee Casella), 85, of Paterson, formerly of Passaic, passed away on May 26, 2011. Born in Gioiosa Marea, Messina, Sicily, Mrs. Gulla came to the United States in 1953 and settled in Passaic. She lived there for many years before moving to Paterson in 1992. Prior to her retirement, she was the owner of Lydia’s Dress Shop in Passaic for many years. Mrs. Gulla was a former parishioner of St. Anthony R.C. Church in Passaic.
Brothers and Sisters, On Behalf of the National United Youth Association Board and its President Lauren Bilinski, may I take this opportunity to invite you to share in a ministry project. 
PRAYERS OF SYMPATHY: We express our sympathy to Gene Kapchonick on the loss of her husband, George Kapchonick (92) who passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 17, 2010. Our condolences to his daughter, Alice of Little Falls, his brother, Basil Kapchonick of Maryland; and his sister, Ann Sagaert of California. George Kapchonick was born in Paterson, NJ he lived in West Paterson and Little Falls before moving to Toms River. George was a Letter Carrier with the Little Falls, NJ Post Office for thirty years before his retirement. He was a United States World War II Navy Veteran, serving as a ship fitter second class. He received the Asiatic Pacific Theater Philippine Liberation Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and one Battle Star. George was our active parishioner for many years helping with the maintenance and several fundraisers. He also was a life member of V.F.W. Post 10185, Toms River. George’s funeral services took place on Tuesday, September 21st. He was buried at the East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
