Rectory expansion and accessibility projects

Great news -– Our Rectory expansion is completed.

The rectory was painted by Dominick Bucci, Brian Bucci, Lenny Hrinuk, Fr. Joseph, Mrs. Renata, Michael and Natalie Cyman to save on the cost of the labor.

The entrance door to the parish hall has been accommodated for handicap accessibility. The step was eliminated by placing a new concrete ramp. Our parish hall is now handicap accessible. Moving any furniture or items to the parish hall is also much easier.

The front patio was completed. We thank for all received to date donations. Any donation of $1,000.00 or more entitle donor(s) to have an engraved brick paver at the sidewalk in front of the rectory.

Fr. Joseph and his family donated and planted new shrubs, covered the cost of soil and seeds for the landscaping in front of the rectory. This donation was made in memory of his mother, Agnieszka and brother, Andrew Cyman.

On Sunday November 15, 2009 we will host Rt. Rev. Dr. Anthony Mikovsky the Bishop of the Central Diocese. On that Sunday there will be one Mass celebrated at 11:00 A.M. fallowed by the blessing of the addition. The reception will take place in the parish hall. The buffet dinner style will be provided and sponsored by the Cyman Family as a token of appreciation for an accomplished project. All are invited to attend this event with the opportunity to meet Bishop Anthony. Please write the name of your family and number of people attending on the sign up list located in the parish hall. Thank you.

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Prayer requests

You can send prayer requests by e-mail.

Holy Mass intentions are for the sick, in memory of loved ones, anniversaries of marriage etc. You can also request prayer for the sick and home-bound by writing intentions and placing them in “Prayer Request” container which is located at the side altar by the baptismal fount.

Fr. Joseph offers Holy Mass on Thursdays for the sick and shut-ins. If you have any sick members in your family and/or home-bound friends or relatives please write their names and place them in the container. Fr. Joseph will include these intentions at the Holy Mass on Thursday evening.

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July 2009

My Dear Parishioners and Friends, some important events at Holy Cross Church in the past month.

1. The Adoration Society had meeting, election and oath of officers on Sunday June 7, 2009. The oath of new members was taken by Helen Skawinski, Elaine Rotsaert, Stella Skawinski, Loretta Offmann and Michele Desch. The new members received the Constitutions and the laws of the Adoration Society. Then the democratic election of officers was held. Adoration Society Officers for year 2009: President – Karen Peano; Vice-President – Nancy Mupo, Recording Secretary – Elaine Rotsaert; Financial Secretary / Treasurer – Alice Kriskewic, Sunshine Committee – Michele Desch. We congratulate the officers and new members of the ANS. The members discussed upcoming fundraiser – FLEA MARKET on Saturday, September 19, 2009. The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday August 30, 2009 after 9:00 A.M. Mass – 10:10 A.M. Daughters of Holy Cross merged with Adoration Society on Sunday March 1, 2009.

2. Sacrament of Matrimony between Eduart Rojas and Rosa Quinones on Saturday, June 6, 2009. We congratulate Eduart Rojas and Rosa Quinones on their special celebration of the wedding. Our congratulations are extended to Eduart parents – Paula and Mario; congratulations to Rosa’s parents – Nilda and Ramon; Best Man –Mario Rojas, Maid of Honor – Elizabeth Matias, family members and friends. We wish Rosa and Eduart God’s blessing and happiness in life together as Christian family.

3. The Sacrament of Baptism of Armond Clay Hockman III took place on Monday, June 22, 2009. We congratulate Armond on this special day, his fiancé, Christina Morello, Godfather Michael Morello and Godmother Christina C. Morello.

4. Parish picnic took place on Sunday June 14, 2009. Music was provided by DJ Rosario. Children and adults enjoyed the live entertainment.

5. The Balloon Magic – Dee Best – entertained the children.

6. Adults enjoyed musical chairs as well. The winner was Rafal Daniewski. The winner for children’s musical chair was Amber Harth.

7. The School of Christian Living end of school took place on Sunday June 14, 2009. These are those who received perfect, good and recognition of participation awards: Perfect Attendance – Neil Kiame; Good Attendance: Ned Kiame; Natalie Cyman, Nicholas Desch , Nayef Kiame, Michael Cyman, Alissa Paulison , Christopher Paulison , Matthew Montero; Recognition of Participation in S.O.C.L. Amber Harth; Brianna Harth, Michael Lazor, Gabriella Rotsaert, Daniel Sung. On the picture from left Edward Obssuth, Jason Cabrejos, Nayef Kiame, Ned Kiame, Nail Kiame, Michael Cyman, Natalie Cyman, Amber Harth, Brianna Harth, Alissa Paulison, Chris Paulison, Nicholas Desch, Gabriella Rotsaert. Teachers from left: Karen Paulison, Claire Centrella, Karen Peano (substitute), Michele Lazor (Superintendent) Thank you teachers for job great done! Missing on the picture are: Carol Montero (substitute teacher) Annie Montero, Matt Montero, Michael Lazor, Daniel and Emily Reyes, Aubrey Santos, Kayla Price.

8. Father’s Day Brunch was served on Sunday June 21, 2009 after 9:00 A.M. Mass. We thank Mr. Ed Obssuth who was in charge of the preparations for the brunch as well as all those who brought dishes, bake goods, served and cleaned afterwards. At the end of both Masses on Father’s Day, all fathers and fathers to be received gifts of appreciation – mugs with the text “Blessed is the father who travels with God.” We thank Mr. & Mrs. Ed Lazor for sponsoring Father’s Day gifts.

9. Beata Lazor was very busy on the day of parish picnic painting faces of several children.

10. The children watching Balloon Magic – Dee Best on the parish picnic.

11. The Fun Time Kids Academy was using our parish hall for their graduation ceremony. Eleven students graduated that day including Natalie Cyman (daughter of Fr. Joseph and Mrs. Renata Cyman). The parish hall was filled with parents, children and teachers on this joyous day.

During the summer month’s people travel and take summer vacations. I wish all children safe and enjoyable vacation time. In the summer we don’t have a break from payment of our regular church bills. Therefore, on behalf of the Parish Committee I ask all of you to donate by mail your regular donations to the parish if you will not be present on a particular Sunday.

I invite parishioners to take advantage of Saturday evening Mass at 6:00 P.M. in July and August so that you could enjoy more time on Sunday with your family. In July and August there will be only one Sunday Mass at 9:00 A.M. I remember you in my daily prayers. Please remember me in your prayers each day.

Yours in Christ,
Father Joseph

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June 2009

My Dear Parishioners and Friends, some important events at Holy Cross Church in the past month

1. Baptism of Stivet Salcedo Jr. son of Stivet Salcedo and Deyanira Pena on May 3rd.

2. Cinco De Mayo Dinner on May 3rd. On Sunday May 3rd our parish enjoyed Cinco De Mayo Dinner beautifully organized by the Parish Life Committee. Here is the article submitted by the Chairperson of the Parish Life Committee Michele Lazor: “CINCO DE MAYO” Ole, Ole !!

3. Baptism of Rylee Alexandra Loyas, daughter of Cassandra Loyas on May 24th .

4. The 70th Anniversary of Sacrament of Marriage between George and Gene Kapchonick was on May 27th 2009. Father Joseph went to visit Gene and George with Holy Communion, Anniversary blessing prayer and flowers donated by St. Nicholas Ministry. Congratulations to Gene and George!

Genevieve Piontkowski and George Kapchonick our lifelong parishioners celebrated their 70th Anniversary of Marriage. They both have a great influence on the life of our parish. When the Woodland Park (formerly West Paterson) church was being built, George was at the site daily and was Fr. John Slysz’s right hand man. He was a board member for years and active in the many activities and fund raisers. Gene was involved in the ANS (altar guild) and helped maintain the altar linens. For years she grew a garden of flowers just for the church. Her prize gladiolas adorned the altar for many years. She was also involved in many fund raisers. Originally from Little Falls, they moved to Tom’s River in 1983. We thank George and Gene for their service and wish them God’s blessing in the future. They have one daughter, Alice, who resides in Little Falls.

On Mother’s Day May 10th, 2009 after 9:00 A.M. Mass the breakfast in honor of our mothers took place with the menu (Sausages, Bacon, Eggs, French Toasts, Home Fries, Danish, Rolls and Butter, Coffee, Tea) provided by catering Hughie’s Red Kettle. During both Masses all mothers received corsages which were donated by the church and umbrellas generously sponsored by Edward and Michele Lazor. We thank them for their generosity.

We congratulate Paulette (Rodriguez) and Fernando Sung on the birth of their son, Stefano Sung 7 lb 1.6 oz, 19 3/4 inches on Wednesday May 13, 2009. We congratulate Gianfranco – Big Brother and other relatives and friends on this special occasion. May the Lord bless Sung family with good health and happiness.

We will celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony between Edvart Rojas and Rosa Quinones on Saturday June 6, 2009 at 3:30 P.M. We wish Rosa and Edvart God’s blessing and happiness in their life together as Christian wife and husband.

On Sunday June 14, 2009 our School of Christian Living student will conclude their Christian education with attendance and participation awards. After the 11:00 A.M. Mass all are invited to attend Annual Parish Picnic.

On the same Sunday, June 14, 2009, the Corpus Christi Procession will take place at SS Peter and Paul Parish in Passaic at 4:00 P.M. Refreshment will be served. All are invited to venerate the presence of the risen Lord in the Holy Eucharist.

On the third Sunday of June, 21, 2009 we will honor all fathers on Father’s Day. The refreshment will be served after 9:00 A.M. Mass.

Our youth will have their fundraiser – CAR WASH – on Saturday June 27, 2009. This event will be held in our parking lot on from 10 am to 3 pm. The youth will serve also refreshments. Everyone is asked to enjoy this event and support our youth. Bring your children for this good cause and activity full of fun.

During the summer months people travel and take summer vacations. I wish all children safe and enjoyable vacation time. In the summer we don’t have a break from payment of our regular church bills. Therefore, on behalf of the Parish Committee I ask all of you to donate/send your regular donations to the parish if you will not be present on a particular Sunday.

I invite parishioners to take advantage of Saturday evening Mass in July and August so that you could enjoy more time on Sunday with your family. In July and August there will be one Sunday Mass at 9:00 A.M.

I remember you in my daily prayers. Please remember me in your prayers each day. Wishing you a Happy Father’s Day.

Yours in Christ,
Father Joseph

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Cinco de Mayo Mexican Fiesta

On Sunday May 3rd Holy Cross PNCC Church of West Paterson, N. J. hosted its first “Cinco de Mayo Mexican Fiesta”.

cinco de mayoMexican and classic pop music was provided by D.J. Rosario of Classic Source Entertainment. The traditional Mexican decor was inviting and the music was contagious. Everyone joined in the festivities; children and adults as well. Children’s games and prizes, a 50/50 raffle, and a “Mexican Basket of Cheer” were also provided by the Parish Life Committee. Tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, and sangria were on the menu as well as traditional fare for those reluctant to experience Mexican delicacies. Desserts included traditional Spanish flan (custard) Mexican wedding cakes, rum cakes, coconut cakes, Mexican coffee and much more.

If you are interested in joining us in the future please call us at 973 256-4888 or read your weekly bulletins and monthly newsletters.

A special thank you goes out to the following members of the Parish Life Committee. Deacon David Gaydos for his superb culinary expertise; Michele Lazor for providing the decorations, entertainment, basket of cheer, and desserts; Dominick Bucci for his expertise in hanging the lights and decorations; Carol and Annie Montero for setting tables; and the countless others who stayed for cleanup long after the party was over. — Submitted by Michele Lazor

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May 2009

The month of April gave us not only beautiful spring weather with some temperature records set but we also had some wonderful events at Holy Cross Church. Let me share with you the events that we wish to keep in our memories.

On Palm Sunday the Parish Committee Members took an oath. Hughie Vickerilla (Trustee), Edward Obssuth (Chairman of the Parish Committee), Maria Makos (Trustee), Alice Kriskewic (Trustee), Karen Hitchcock (Secretary), Adele Merson (Trustee); Fr. Joseph Cyman (Pastor), Dominick Bucci (Trustee); Bob Sleece (Vice-Chairman), Lenny Hrinuk (Trustee); Richard Daum (Financial Secretary/Treasurer); Absent was Mary Margo and David Obssuth.

On Sunday April 19, 2009 the children of Sunday School enjoyed Easter egg hunt followed by Easter Party in the Parish hall.

In the month of April we continued to have ALMS FUND DRIVE – This year the Parish Committee has decided to send our Alms Fund to the “Christian Appalachian Project,” This organization with over 40 years of reaching out to people in the 13 states that make up Appalachia with basic needs and services, including seeing that the children get food! They deliver food and supplies through local churches and community organizations. They provide lunch to children during the summer when they aren’t in school. They help families learn about planting backyard gardens. Their main concern is to provide for the hundreds of thousands of AMERICA’S poorest right here in the United States of America. Total donations for that cause was $387. On behalf of the poorest we thank those who supported this worthwhile project.

On Palm Sunday April 5, we had youth fundraiser selling PALM CROSSES AND EASTER PLANTS. These beautiful items were provided by Oak Farms owned and operated by Ed, David and Justin Obssuth. All profit will help finance the youth who will participate at Convo 2010 gathering. This project raised $154. There will be other fundraisers in the future as announced.

On Sunday, May 10, 2009 we will celebrate Mother’s Day and honor all mothers with special prayers during both Masses. Teachers and children will present a special program for mothers after the Mass in the parish hall. The Mother’s Day Breakfast will take place in the parish hall after the 9:00 A.M. Mass. (10:10 A.M.) All parishioners and friends especially Mothers are cordially invited to attend this special celebration.

Beginning Wednesday, May 6th I invite everyone May Devotions during the month of May. We will honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of Jesus. The Christians from the beginning had a special devotion toward the Mother of our Savior. I invite everyone each Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. for May Devotions. We will give praise and honor to God with the prayers and intercessions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We likewise will sing the Litany to the Blessed Virgin Mary in the presence of the Most Blessed Sacrament. In addition to that, we are going to sing hymns dedicated to our spiritual Mother and reflect on her life. I invite all parishioners to attend these celebrations. May Mary, the mother of Jesus and our spiritual mother fill your hearts with her love and lead you to her Son our Lord.

I remember you in my daily prayers. Please remember me in your prayers each day. Wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day.

Christ has risen! Indeed He has risen!

Father Joseph R. Cyman, Pastor

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April 2009

My Dear Parishioners and Friends, some important events at Holy Cross Church in the past month.

On Sunday March 15th, our parish celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with its annual holiday dinner. The delicious meal included a soup and salad bar, corned beef and cabbage, baked chicken, two types of potatoes, and a variety of vegetables. All food was prepared by the talented Deacon David Gaydos with the assistance of his wife Laurie and brother Deacon William Gaydos. Thanks to the “Parish Life Committee” the meal was accompanied by authentic Irish music, green beer, and dessert with Irish coffee. Entertainment was provided by the “Bergen Piper band” which included two bagpipers and a drummer. A 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and a “crazy green things game” further enhanced the fun and camaraderie of the parishioners and guests.

The Holy Cross Church Adoration Society hosted ANNUAL NY/NJ ANS AGAPE on Sunday March 29, 2009 at 4:00 P.M. Adoration Society members, guests and clergy attended the event. Agape celebration commemorates the feast of Passover celebrated by Jewish people as remembrance of their deliverance from the slavery in Egypt. It also reminded us the feast of Passover celebrated by our Lord with His disciples the day before His passion. The last Passover was celebrated by our Lord on Holy Thursday when He instituted the Sacraments of the Holy Eucharist, Penance and Holy Orders. Our Lord replaced the offering of the lamb by giving his own life on Good Friday for the sins of the world. A delicious dinner provided by Andy’s Market and tasty bake goods donated by several ladies of our parish made a delightful reception for our guests. O yes a little taste of a kosher wine was available as well.

On Sunday March 1, 2009 after the 9:00 A.M. Mass a dedication of Sunday School classroom located in the parish hall in memory of departed teacher June Bielke Pettegrew took place. We are grateful for her many years of service.

On March 5, 2009 a free financial seminar took place in our parish hall on provided by David Lerner Associates Inc, business since 1976, member of FINRA & SIPC. If you couldn’t attend this interested seminar and wish to have information about how to build and preserve assets in a conservative way; how to make a decent income without being exposed to the stock market; information about Life Insurance, Long Term Care please contact Jacob Vaknin SVP & Rakema White SA at 201-371-2625. There is no obligation but the advise is worth the time.

On March 11, 2009 I have begun a new series of Bible Study. This time using DVD resources that make the lesson relevant to our daily life needs.

On March 21, 2009 I attended meeting held in Reading parish as preparation for Convo 2010. Our parish has fundraisers to help youth of our parish to defray the cost of retreat. The Palm crosses are available in the parish hall to help support our youth for Convo 2010. There will be other fundraisers in the future as announced.

Before Easter I will continue home bound visitations administering sacraments of penance, Eucharist and if needed Holy Unction. At the same time I will bring them recent bulletins with April newsletter and beautiful flowers donated by St. Nicholas Ministry. The flowers are from “Oak Farms and Garden Center.”

Dear Parishioners and Friends – Our parish traditionally uses the Alms Box in the vestibule of the church for the benefit of the poor. Easter Sunday will be the last day to support the poor using the Alms Box. This year the Parish Committee has decided to send our total Alms Fund to “The Christian Appalachian Project,” They have a history of over 40 years of reaching out to people in the 13 states that make up Appalachia with basic needs and services, including seeing that the children get food! They deliver food and supplies through local churches and community organizations. They provide lunch to children during the summer when they aren’t in school. They help families learn about planting backyard gardens. Their main concern is to provide for the hundreds of thousands of AMERICA’S poorest, right here in the United States of America!

My Dear Parishioners and Friends during the celebration of the Holy Week particularly on Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday April 9, 10, 11, 2009, I invite everyone to participate in these liturgies as final preparations for the celebration of the Resurrection of our Lord on Sunday April 12, 2009. The schedule of services for Holy Week and Easter Sunday is in the bulletin. If you search for a spiritual renewal, the Holy Week – Triduum (three days) is the place to be, to pray and reflect on the sufferings and passion of Jesus that brought us forgiveness and salvation.

Wishing you a Happy and blessed Easter, Christ has risen! Indeed He has risen!

Father Joseph R. Cyman, Pastor

April 2009 Read More »

March 2009

My Dear Parishioners and Friends, some important events at Holy Cross Church in the past month.

MEN’S CAKE BAKING CONTEST – FEBRUARY 22, 2009 KEVIN PRICE 1ST PLACE “HATS OFF TO THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE,” MICHAEL LAZOR 2ND PLACE “THE DOLLY MADISON DESSERT,“ FR. JOSEPH 3RD PLACE “GOD BLESS THE U.S.A” To all the bakers: Fr. Joseph, Jerry Rotsaert, Ed Lazor, Mike Merson, Dick Daum, Kevin Price, Steve Marricone, Dominick Bucci, Dave Obssuth, Ed Obssuth, Bob Sleece, Len Hrinuk, Hughie Vickerilla and Michael Lazor, we say thanks for their enthusiastic participation.

If you walked into a bakery and saw the 14 beautiful, clever “Americana” cakes you would be hard pressed to choose one. It was obvious that each contestant put thought and MAN power into their production.

The two cakes which won “BEST PORTRAYAL OF OUR AMERICANA THEME”, as determined by our National American Judges, John Surak, Irene Legawiec and John Swider were Dominick Bucci’s “YANKEE DOODLE CAKE” with George Washington’s picture and Fr. Joseph’s “GOD BLESS THE U.S.A.”.

Our sincere thanks to the cake cutters; Karen Peano, Verna Swider, Karen Hitchcock, Alfreda Bazanowski, Beverly Obssuth and Adele Merson and Elaine Rotsaert. We are grateful for the many people who pitched in to clean up after the contest. Thanks to all who attended and supported the 2009 MEN’S CAKE BAKING CONTEST. Thanks too, to Irene Legawiec and Dick Daum for handling the ballot sales. While this was a FUN RAISER (not to be confused with a FUND RAISER) we did bring in $90. While we were eating cake, we know that many people were going hungry. Therefore, the proceeds will be donated to the FATHER ENGLISH FOOD PANTRY.

After I signed my name on the sign-up list to participate in the contest, a serious question came – am I able to fulfill my commitment? I thought that I have to bake something that will not scare people and will not taste too awful. I called my father, who has a lot of experience in baking, to give me some advice. First I baked a sample cake and then the second one which was in the contest. I think my surprising achievement can be attributed to my father’s advice and encouragement and the young members of my family who tried hard to help me.

On Sunday February 8, 2009 at the Annual Parish meeting we reviewed different reports in regard to our church service in the year 2008. Because of the efforts of several dedicated parishioners the year 2008 was filled with many successful activities. At the annual meeting we elected the Parish Committee for the year 2009. I wish all of the members a fruitful and happy service in using their time and talents for the benefit of our parish. The installation of the members of the Parish Committee will take place on PALM SUNDAY April 5, 2009 after 9:00 A.M. Holy Mass in the church.

I thank those who serve or joined the parish committee and other societies and ministries in our parish in order to rejuvenate the life of our parish family. We need more members to join existing organizations of Holy Cross Church. Last year Karen Peano joined the Adoration Society. She is a wonderful asset for the ANS. We desperately need women to join Daughters of Holy Cross. Please contact Elaine Rotsaret or myself. Follow the example of Neil Kiame, who recently joined the group of Altar Servers. He is proud to join his two older brothers as well. Neil, great job!

The Parish Life Committee is making preparations for the ST. PATRICK’S DINNER with great entertainment on Sunday March 15, 2009 after the 11:00 A.M. Mass. The tickets are now available. Buy them in the church hall or send donations by April 10, 2009. You can’t miss “IT”! Come and enjoy!

My Parishioners and Friends, the season of Lent started last Wednesday. With very good attendance on Ash Wednesday we have begun this season to renew our spiritual life through Lenten observances. We are ready to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord on Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009. I ask you to intensify your personal prayer, fasting and alms giving as our preparations for the resurrection of the Lord in the Spirit and truth. The ALMS BOX placed in the vestibule of the church will help you with the practice of alms giving.

In February we lost Mrs. June Pettegrew (74) who passed away on February 5, 2009. Our sincere condolences to her daughter, Karen Paulison and her husband Russell, grand children Alissa and Christopher Paulison, relatives and friends. We miss our parishioner who served as a teacher and past superintendent of School of Christian Living. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

Upon the decision of the Parish Committee the dedication of Sunday School classroom in the parish hall in memory of departed SOCL teacher June Pettegrew will be held on Sunday March 1, 2009 after 9:00 A.M. Mass.

In February we also lost Mrs. Irene Pastor (89) who passed away on February 10, 2009. Our sincere condolences to her daughter, Darlene and her husband Paul Wagner, son Theodore Pastor and his wife Loretta, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Irene Pastor was a member of the church choir and served as a secretary of Daughters of Holy Cross for many years. We shall all miss her and pray eternal rest grant unto her O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

P.S. I keep you in my daily prayers. Please remember me in your prayers.

– Fr. Joseph

March 2009 Read More »

February 2009

The Year 2009 is well advanced. I hope we all still remember our New Year’s resolutions.

Due to the inclement weather in January many parishioners were prevented to attend Sunday liturgies. Nevertheless some activities took place in the parish.

On Sunday January 18, 2009 the School of Christian Living Attendance awards were given to the following students: Perfect Attendance Awards ($15 gift certificates to Barns and Noble): Natalie Cyman, Michael Cyman, Ned Kiame, Neyef Kiame Good Attendance Awards: ($10 gift certificates to Barns and Noble): Nicholas Desch, Neil Kiame, Matthew Montero, Christopher Paulison, Alissa Paulison Recognition Attendance Awards (gifts): Amber Harth, Brianna Harth, Michael Lazor, Gabriella Rotsaert, Aubrey Santos, Daniel Sung, Emily Sung. Some students who couldn’t come on Sunday January 18, 2009 received their awards on Sunday January 25th, 2009. We thank teachers Mrs. June Pettegrew, Mrs. Michele Lazor and Mrs. Karen Paulison for their wonderful service to benefit the children of our parish. I ask all parishioners to support our School of Christian Living Program. The children are the future of the parish. It is our goal to have more children in the Sunday School. I wish that all parents would take advantage of a great program that is provided for the spiritual and intellectual benefit of their children.

On Sunday January 18, 2009 our parish Youth Group had a meeting. Some fundraisers were scheduled to help our youth to defray cost of participation at the next National Youth gathering Convo 2010. The fundraisers are listed under Upcoming Events. Please support the youth of our parish.

The youth of our parish and their parents hosted 45 guests who came to Holy Cross on a very cold Saturday, January 24, 2009 for their second preparation meeting of Convo 2010. Among our guests we had an honor guest, Bishop Anthony Mikovsky and his wife Mrs. Carol Mikovsky. I thank Nelly Cabrejos, Jason Cabrejos, Jasmine Cabrejos, and Eddy Obssuth Jr. and Alissa Paulison who helped me to host our special visitors. A delicious pizza, hot dogs and soft drinks were served. It was a wonderful experience to see so many youth from different parishes of our Central Diocese.

The youth gathering of Convo 2010 will be held from July 26 to July 30, 2010. The location of the event will be announced. Look for further information.

The next Holy Cross Youth Mass followed by the meeting and refreshment is scheduled on Sunday February 15, 2009. The next Convo 2010 prep meeting is scheduled for March 21, 2009 at St. Stephen’s Parish, Reading PA.

The Parish Life Committee Meeting took place on Sunday January 25, 2009 followed with potluck Lunch. I thank all the members for helping all of us feel as one family.

Our Annual Parish Meeting will take place on February 8, 2009.

In this update I wish to give you the basic information on changes in vital statistic of the parish in 2008.

Baptisms: Karol Mary Sung on January 15, 2008 Daniel Joseph Reyes on May 15, 2008 Emily Reyes on May 15, 2008 Zackary Keith Mullin on June 22, 2008 Kayla Grace Mullin on June 22, 2008 Nicholas John Gizzi on September 7, 2008 Julia Naomi Palman on December 21, 2008 GianFranco Sung on December 28, 2008

Sacrament of Matrimony: Danny Fabian Reyes and Karol Mary Sung on January 19, 2008 Rocco Anthony Cerrato and Tanya Broniszewski on September 6, 2008 Stephen C. Morgan and Karen Jarmakowicz on November 1, 2008 Steven Marricone and Alexis Fikes on November 29, 2008

First Holy Communion on May 18, 2008: Leandro Martin Herrera Amber Rose Harth Christopher James Paulison Nayef Elias Kiame Daniel Joseph Reyes

Sacrament of Confirmation (With Confirmation names) on June 29, 2008 by Rt. Rev. Dr. Anthony Mikovsky: Jasmine GRACE Cabrejos, Mateusz CZESLAW Domanowski, Jakub WILHELM Domanowski, Steven LUKE Marricone, Steven DOMINICK Gaydos, Edward FRANCIS Obssuth, Christian PETER Olsen, Karol ANN Sung

New Parishioners: Danny Reyes and Karol Sung, John and Michele Gizzi, Italo and Patricia Palman, Fernando Sung and Paulette Rodriguez

Funerals: Lorraine Broniszewski on January 19, 2008; Marie Vanjonack on February 14, 2008; Lorraine Dube on April 16, 2008; Wanda Wozney on May 3, 2008; Julian Suhok on July 1, 2008; Anna Surak on October 20, 2008 and Luba Bartlom on November 3, 2008. Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.

The whole report will be available at the meeting on Sunday February 8, 2009.

May the Year 2009 be for each parishioner of our parish a time of spiritually growth in deepening our personal relationship with our Savior. As we begin the 83rd year of the service to the needs of our community, may we fulfill our privilege of serving God and our neighbors.

As I remember you in my daily prayers, please remember me each day in your prayers.

Father Joseph R. Cyman, Pastor

February 2009 Read More »

January 2009

My Dear Parishioners and Friends,

Some important events from December 2008:

1. Sacrament of Matrimony between Steven Marricone and Alexis Fikes on Nov. 29, 2008

2. Birthday Party for Jesus with a special cake on Dec. 7, 2008

3. SOCL Christmas Program and Christmas Dinner on Dec. 7, 2008

4. Sacrament of Baptism of Julia Naomi Palman on Dec. 21, 2008

In December we welcomed Italo, Patricia Palman and their children Julia, Justin, Josephine, Jessica and Jenifer as new members of our parish. Their daughter Julia was baptized on December 21, 1008. We wish Palman Family happiness and spiritual fulfillment at Holy Cross.

5. St. Nicholas with children at Holy Cross on Dec. 28, 2008

6. Sacrament of Baptism of Gianfranco Sung on Dec. 28, 2008

In December we welcomed Fernando Sung, Paulette Rodriguez and their son, Gianfranco as new family at Holy Cross Church. Their son, Gianfranco was baptized on December 28, 2008. We wish them happiness and spiritual fulfillment at Holy Cross.

With the end of the year 2008 we closed our fiscal year. We thank parishioners who throughout this past year shared their time, talent and treasure for the good of Holy Cross Church in order to pay weekly bills. The financial report of income versus expenses reflecting the year 2008 will be available at the Annual Parish Meeting on Sunday February 8, 2008 after 9:00 A.M. Mass. All parishioners are strongly encouraged to attend.

Epiphany Pastoral visitations this year can take place until Ash Wednesday, which will take place on February 25, 2009. Please call me or contact me on Sundays to schedule the appointment. For the visit, if it is possible, please prepare a cross and two candles. The candles that symbolize the light of Jesus will be lighted during the prayer time. In the case of the sick and home-bound Holy Communion will be given. In keeping with the tradition, I will mark the lintel of your door with the initials C+M+B+2009 (Caspar, Melchior, Balthazar-2009). These symbolize the Three Wise Men who welcomed Jesus into their hearts, and it is our way of accepting Him into our lives and our homes.

As our Annual Parish Meeting approaches I ask each organization to present its report of activities in the year 2008 and projects for the year 2009. The list of our organizations is enclosed. In advance I thank them for their service. I encourage all parishioners to be a part of the life of our parish family. All of us need to be responsible for the growth of the parish. This is our internal mission, to serve each other using our talents, time and treasure in the name of our Lord.

And finally I would like to share with you some thought about New Years resolutions.

At the beginning of the New Year 2009 we must set goals and make resolutions as a necessary conclusion to our review of the past year. And we do need to review our lives from year to year because, as Socrates says, the unexamined life is not worth living.

At the beginning of the year newspapers are full of individual and collective New Year resolutions. Most of those, however, are not resolutions at all but only wishes. What is the difference between a resolution and a wish?

A wish identifies a goal one wants to reach; a resolution specifies the steps one will take to reach it. A wish says this is where I want to be, a resolution says this is the road I will take, and this is what I will do to get there. The wishful person says “I want to pass my exams this year” and the resolved person says “I will devote an extra hour to my studies everyday in order to pass my exams.” The wishful person says “I will have more peace and love in my family this year” and the resolved person says “I will spend more time with my family at table instead of rushing off to the TV, so that we get to know and understand ourselves better.” The wishful person says “I will live a life of union with God this year” and the resolved person says “I will set aside this time everyday to pray and hear God’s word.”

The difference between wishing and resolving is: are we prepared to do what it takes to make our dreams come true, are we prepared to pay the price? Our New Year resolution we need to support with prayer.

We read that the shepherds, when they went to adore the Child Jesus in the manger, told all that the angels had said to them. “But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19). Again after the boy Jesus was found in the Temple, we are told that “His mother treasured all these things in her heart” (Luke 2:51). Mary was a woman who valued the word of God, who treasured it and made time to meditate and ponder it. It is true that the holiness of Mary is attributed to the grace of God, but this should not make us forget that she needed to make an effort in order to cooperate with the grace of God. She pondered the word of God in order to discern what God was saying to her at every stage in her life as the handmaid of God.

Are you making good resolutions this year?

We express our heartfelt thanks for all received Christmas cards and signs of your kindness. May the Baby Jesus who came to enrich us with his blessings reward you abundantly in year 2009 — Fr. Joseph & Family

P.S. I keep you in my daily prayers. Please remember me in your prayers.

– Fr. Joseph

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