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
Make a joyful shout to God all the earth! Sing out the honor of His name; make His praise glorious – Psalm 66:1-2
The last Sunday of January has been set aside by Synodal resolution as Music Scholarship Sunday, which puts special emphasis on the Music Scholarship program of the National United Choirs of the Polish National Catholic Church. It is the Sunday when the choirs, organists, directors and choir members should be recognized for their contributions to the music ministry of our church. It is also the Sunday when we look to the future and identify those that we hope will be part of the music ministry of the PNCC.
Music provides inspiration and pleasure to both the musician and the listener. It is the calling of every organist, choir member, accompanist, and musician to enhance the liturgy of the Mass and special services.
The Music Scholarship program has a number of endowments, awards that are available to members of the PNCC, whether it is via instrument or voice, regardless of age. It is our duty to encourage and reach those individuals who have the potential and love of music. With encouragement and praise, the rewards are many for all of the PNCC. A web site is currently being constructed to assist those who will want to apply. Notice of its completion will be forthcoming.
Your financial support has provided us with the vehicle to make awards annually to deserving applicants. It is through your continued support that we have made financial assistance available to those who are interested in serving the music ministry. We offer our sincere “thanks” to each of you for your continued support of the Music Scholarship Fund. Since 1964 the Scholarship Program has awarded many members of the PNCC a financial incentive to continue to pursue their musical studies, which we pray, will prove fruitful. It is a great feeling to know that several of the original music scholarship recipients are still active in the music ministry of the PNCC – over four decades later! Indeed the program has succeeded!
Please give generously on Scholarship Sunday, encourage applicants for the program and remember our church musicians in your prayers. May God Bless You!
A brochure explaining the Music Scholarship Program, the awards, and their namesakes is available in the parish hall. Applications must be sent in before April 1, 2011.
Want to meet new friends in a safe Christian environment? Holy Cross Parish invites youth ages 12 and up to our Youth Fellowship Meeting on Friday, January 21st from 7 PM to 8:30 PM. Enjoy Food, Fun and Refreshment.
Want to meet new friends in a safe Christian environment? Our Parish invites youth ages 12 and up for a Youth Fellowship Meeting on Friday, December 3rd from 7 PM to 8:30 PM. Enjoy Food, Fun and Refreshment. Bring your favorite game and inspirational story and share it with others. Inform us about the number of youth attending by Thursday, December 2nd by calling Father Joseph at 973-256-4888 or Juan Reyes at 973-754-9355.
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.
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.
In September 2010 Natalie Lazar joined our group of School of Christian Living teachers. On the picture you see her with her husband John Held. Here are few words which Natalie was kind to write about herself and her family.
I am a proud member of the Holy Cross Church. I have been working with youth in many capacities. I have taught Sunday school for many years. I taught at the Calvary Temple Church in Wayne and the Life Christian Church in West Orange. I was a youth leader for Learning For Life with the Law Enforcement Explorers Program in Passaic County. I am an advisor with the (S.A.D.D.) Students Against Destructive Decisions Program in Passaic County Technical where I am currently assigned as a school resource officer from the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department. My husband and I are both law enforcement officers. We have a total of 5 children in our family. Four of them are adults. I am also a part time student at Montclair State University.
We are glad to welcome Natalie and her family to our Holy Cross Church family
First Holy Communion Classes: The next preparatory classes for First Holy Communion are scheduled Sunday, October 24, November 7, November 14, November 28, December 12, 2010 after 11 AM Mass. We are asking the parents of whose children who started the second grade in September 2010, and those who are older and didn’t receive First Holy Communion, to register them for classes. Please call 973-256-4888 or contact Fr. Joseph.
We pray for all our students who are preparing to receive the Holy Eucharist for the first time. The First Holy Communion celebration is scheduled on Sunday May 22, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. Holy Mass.
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,
All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner: Sunday, September 12th after 11 AM Holy Mass. Spaghetti, Meatballs, Garden Salad, Beverages, Take-out available. Tickets are only $5. S.O.C.L. Students Eat Free!
Youth Meetings: All Parish youth and their friends (12 years and up) are invited to attend the Holy Cross Church Youth Group meeting on Sunday, September 19th after 11:00 AM Mass. Refreshments will be provided. Come in and find out what’s in store for you.
Food Drive: A food drive to benefit the Father English Food Pantry will be held on Sunday, September 19th. All parishioners are asked to bring a bag of groceries to church on this day. Won’t you help the needy in the name of Christ the Savior? “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers, you have done it to me.” (Matthew 25:40)
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. The next Convo will take place in two years.
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
The last Sunday of January has been set aside by Synodal resolution as Music Scholarship Sunday, which puts special emphasis on the Music Scholarship program of the National United Choirs of the Polish National Catholic Church. It is the Sunday when the choirs, organists, directors and choir members should be recognized for their contributions to the music ministry of our church. It is also the Sunday when we look to the future and identify those that we hope will be part of the music ministry of the PNCC.
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. 
In September 2010 Natalie Lazar joined our group of School of Christian Living teachers. On the picture you see her with her husband John Held. Here are few words which Natalie was kind to write about herself and her family.
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.