We thank organizers and participants of last Monday’s Drive In Movie. We watched the movie “Mars Needs Moms,” a Walt Disney Picture, by Simon Wells.
We had about 50 viewers enjoying the weather, friendship, refreshments and the movie. Several people helped to organize this fundraiser for our youth. We thank:
Natalie Lazar for organizing this event, producing a flyer which was included in the bulletin and on the web site. Natalie also donated bags, powdered sugar, flour, chocolate syrup, and eggs;
Antonio Lazar who prepared a BBQ of hot dogs and prepared other items;
Claire Centrella who donated hot dogs, buns, licorice, chips, popcorn;
Merry Sleece who donated hot dogs;
The Kiame family for their donation of soda and water;
The Fernandez family for their donation of water;
Kathy Villagomez who donated whipped cream;
Renata Cyman who donated strawberries and bananas; and
Karen Paulison who donated hot dog buns.
We also thank and appreciate the help offered by John and Natalie Lazar’s friend who set up the screen, projector, computer, and speakers.
Last Sunday, June 12th, our School Of Christian Living had graduation day. Good and participation awards were given by the teachers of SOCL to the following students:
Level I – Pre-school – Kindergarten
Jassie Santos – good attendance
Aubrey Santos – good attendance
Level II – 1st and 2nd grades
Natalie Cyman – good attendance
Neil Kiame – good attendance
Level III – 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades
Angie Cardona – good attendance
Nicholas Desch – good attendance
Chris Paulison – good attendance
Elizabeth Fernandez – good attendance
Syera Plitt – good attendance
Nayef Kiame – good attendance
Ned Kiame – good attendance
Amber Harth – participation award
Level IV – 6th, 7th, and 8th grades
Michael Cyman – good attendance
Emily Fernandez – good attendance
Henry Fernandez – good attendance
The students with good attendance received $10 gift certificates and students with participation awards received $5 gift certificates to Barnes and Noble. All students received SOCL certificates signed by Bishop Anthony Mikovsky, Fr. Joseph R. Cyman and the teacher of each class.
The Holy Cross Parish, children and parents thanked the following teachers Mrs. Claire Centrella, Mrs. Natalie Lazar, Mrs. Karen Paulison, and Mrs. Jamie Santos, and substitute teachers Mrs. Karen Peano, Mrs. Carol Montero, and Ms. Alissa Paulison for their time and efforts in preparing and conducting the lessons.
SOCL student list changes in fall 2011: Emily Fernandez will begin high school in fall 2011. Even though she will leave SOCL she will stay as an active member of Holy Cross Church Youth Group. Other students will be placed to SOCL levels according to their age.
We hope that in 2011 we will increase the number of students in our SOCL.
The program is free of charge and special social events were already scheduled for 2011 – 2012 school year. Dear parents and students, invite other children to enjoy our program. School Of Christian Living classes will begin on Sunday, September 11th.
Three decades ago, seminarian John Mack taught St. Stanislaus children catechism, followed with a lesson on the basketball court.
At 6 feet 3 inches, Mr. Mack impressed his students with a passion for the Lord and the layup. Sunday, some of those former students looked on as the man they met as a seminarian was installed as bishop of the Polish National Catholic Church’s Central Diocese at a Mass at St. Stanislaus Cathedral
“He was very friendly and energetic,” said one of those students, Fred Aebli, after the service. “It’s neat to see him come back in such a big way.”
Bishop Mack had been in the post since Feb. 1, but his era as the eighth bishop of the Scranton-based religion officially began at the Mass with the certification of the election results and passing of the symbolic pastoral staff.
Prime Bishop Anthony Mikovsky reminded those at the ceremony that the elected bishop has the authority of God and God’s people, and he exhorted them to “Unite in faith…. follow, listen and work.”
Bishop Mack had recently been auxiliary bishop in the Buffalo-Pittsburgh Diocese. He was elected to the new post after Bishop Mikovsky was elected Prime Bishop in the fall.
Bishop Mack will also serve as pastor of St. Stanislaus Cathedral, the denomination’s mother church.
While Bishop Mack moved on from his education in Scranton, he never really left, said Joe Nasser, president of the St. Stanislaus Men’s Association.
With the headquarters of the church in the city, he was a common sight in Scranton throughout his career.
“He’s the same as a bishop as he has always been in his career: down-to-earth, a good communicator, and easy to get a hold of,” Mr. Nasser said. “The new leadership has made this an exciting time here.”
After the Mass, the church held a reception in the parish youth center.
Bishop Mack was born and raised in the Polish National Catholic Church in the Greater Detroit area and attended Savonarola Theological Seminary in Scranton.
Eight wonderful children from our parish received the Holy Eucharist for the first time on May 22nd
We congratulate all students and their parents, relatives and friends on this special occasion. Special thanks to parents for their support and help in preparing children by bringing them to the church and studying also at home. Parents sponsored beautiful flower arrangements which decorated the sanctuary. The First Holy Communion classes are offered to those who are in the second grade or older. Sunday School classes, free of charge, will start again on September 12, 2011.
From the left in the first row: Nicole Romero, Syera Plitt, Carlos Garcia, Neil Kiame, Angie Cardona, Elizabeth Fernandez, Henry Fernandez and Emily Fernandez. Second row: Fr. Joseph, pastor and altar servers serving at the Mass Ned Kiame, Michael Cyman and Nayef Kiame.
The oath of the Parish Committee for the Year 2011 took place on Palm Sunday, April 17th, after 9 A.M. Holy Mass.
Congratulations! First row from left: altar servers serving at the Mass Parish Committee members second row from left: Hughie Vickerilla (Trustee), Alice Kriskewic (Trustee), Adele Merson (Trustee). Karen Hitchcock (Recording Secretary), Alexandra Lazor (Trustee), Claire Centrella (Trustee), Fr. Joseph R. Cyman (Pastor), Deacon David Gaydos; Edward Obssuth (Trustee), Dominick Bucci (Chairman of the Parish Committee); Bob Sleece (Vice-Chairman); Richard Daum (Financial Secretary/Treasurer); Absent was Lynn Imperiale
The Brownstown Restaurant in Paterson -- our community supporting the Zachary Decker Fundraiser Dinner
On Sunday April 3, 2011 our parish sponsored Zachary Decker Fundraiser Dinner held at the Brownstone Restaurant, Paterson.
Over one hundred people attended the dinner and tricky tray to express their support for the Decker family. Members of our parish, Claire Centrella, with the help of Lynn Imperiale, Hughie and Beverly Vickerilla (uncle and aunt), Cathy Pietrkowsky (grandmother) were instrumental in organizing this event. The entertainment was provided by Sounds of Sinatra and More – Al Russo and Garry Colletti.
Zachary is a 5 year old son of Kevin and Marlene Decker. He was diagnosed in January 2010 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We all hope and pray that he will have a successful treatment. Zachary’s parents, Kevin and Marlene, were married at Holy Cross Church in 2004. They are also blessed with their beautiful and healthy daughter, Brianne. One of the most joyful moments that took place at the fundraiser dinner was when Zachary won his preferable toy. Yes, his parents, family members and all of us wish him now and in the future a normal, healthy and happy life. Zach is an amazing little boy who has a positive outlook despite all he has gone through. The dinner raised $5,416.00. to defray the cost of medical expenses for Zach’s treatment.
Zachary Decker and his familyClaire Centrella and Zachary. Claire, on behalf of Holy Cross Parish, worked tirelessly in organizing the fundraiser.Fr. Joseph and Zachary
On Sunday October 31, 2010 a Halloween party was prepared by the teachers of the School of Christian Living: Mrs. Claire Centrella, Mrs. Karen Paulison, Mrs. Jamie Santos and Mrs. Natalie Lazar. The children came in wearing their favorite costumes. During the Mass the youth read prayers of the faithful especially for all children who will be out celebrating Halloween: for their safety and well-being … and that all monsters would stay under the bed.
Musical chair game was one of the several games children participated in during their Halloween party. All children received prizes for participation and for winning different games.
The winners of three categories costumes were; from left the prettiest costume – Natalie Cyman, the original costume – Angie Cardona, and the scariest costume – Nayef Kiame.
Our annual blessing of pets in commemoration of St. Francis of Assisi took place last Sunday, October 3rd at 11:00 o’clock Mass in the parish hall. Several pets were brought in for the blessing in commemoration of Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi (Oct. 4).
St. Francis believed based on the Holy Scripture in the ability of all animals to praise God. One of the Psalms is asking the nature, all creatures to praise God for his goodness. Therefore let us remember that we praise our God together with the nature and all creatures around us.
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,
We thank all those who shared their time, talent and treasure to make our annual parish picnic last Sunday, June 13th an enjoyable and successful event.
We thank Natalie Lazar for beautifully painting several faces of our kids. We thank Vincenzo Gravino for arrangement and delivery into our premises a Giant 3 in 1 Sport Center. It brought lots of joy to our kids. And of course, Piñata was a great part of our celebration.
We are grateful to Dominick Bucci, Parish Committee Chairman who repaired and connected gas BBQ. With the help of Edward Obssuth, Hughie Vickerilla, Bob Sleece and Bryan Bucci served delicious food. Several people brought delicious salads and other home made food and desserts. We thank each and everyone. We thank those who additionally helped to clean up the parish hall. We thank those parishioners who invited their friends.
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.
