-
-
Pastor's Vision
As we near September and the unofficial beginning of the parish year, I want to share my vision for St. Mary’s in the year ahead. I believe it will help us grow as a community of faith (so important in today's world), foster a deeper encounter with the Lord Jesus, and provide opportunities to make new friendships.
Beginning in October, the parish will be offering once a month an evening gathering that will include a meal, the opportunity to learn about our Catholic Christian faith, and the chance to share with others and to be inspired by their faith stories. For the past two years, we have offered this program to two smaller groups of parishioners to gauge their experiences and reactions, asking them if this was something that should be offered to the entire parish. Those participants responded with an overwhelming YES!Our next gathering will be Tuesday, May 2nd at 6:45 PM.
-
-
Topics and ScheduleMeal – Video teaching - Small Table Discussion
-
Tuesday Evenings 6:45-8:30 pm
October 4th
What is the meaning of life?
November 15th
Why does Jesus matter?
December 6th
What does Jesus want us to know?
January 3rd
Why do we need a Savior?
-
Tuesday Evenings6:45-8:30 pm
February 7th
Why is the Resurrection important?
March 11th
Saturday Retreat
April 4th
New Life in the Spirt
May 2nd
Our Need for the Church
-
-
-
Read about the experience from some of our parishioners:
-
Pat Dorsi's Why?
I am a “cradle Catholic”. I received a Catholic education from K through Graduate School and I worked full-time in Church Ministry for more than 30 years. When Christ Life was first offered at St. Mary’s, I signed up thinking I might have an opportunity to share ideas with other parishioners that they might find helpful. However, I was not prepared to have my knowledge of our Catholic faith transformed from a mostly theological understanding to a more personal and loving relationship with Jesus. All of the components of Christ Life—the prayers, videos, faith sharing, and discussions, served as catalysts in my deepening spiritual growth as a disciple of Jesus. Looking back today, I realize that the greatest impact I experienced through participating in Christ Life was in my personal prayer life. I no longer spend time in prayer—I spend time with Jesus. My prayer no longer consists of a listing of my wants and needs—I learned to cherish silence and listen for the myriad ways Jesus is present to me throughout one single day. I no longer think of others as friends or foes—I see all people as Icons of God with whom I can laugh, cry, serve and pray. The Holy Spirit has awakened within me the desire to know, love, and serve God by better getting to know, love, and serve my fellow parishioners and our community at large. God has great plans for His People! I invite all of you to consider joining us this October by signing up to participate in Christ Life. It will be decision that you will not regret! - Pat Dorsi
-
Carla Jbeily's Why?
I am a grateful for God's work in my life and for the ways he has changed my views on worship. It all began when a family member got diagnosed with Advanced ovarian cancer. I felt the urge to draw closer to God. I thought I would achieve a closer relationship with God through prayer and meditation. As I prayed, I felt the need to further grow my relationship with God and to serve him. I joined the Discovering Christ program in the hope to learn more. It was the best decision I have ever made. It was God's calling. Discovering Christ creates meaningful connections and offers powerful means of forging deep and lifegiving connections with fellow parishioners. It provides participants a safe place to share their struggles. It gave me the opportunity to comfort others and it enriched me as I heard how God has strengthened, guided and directed others throughout their lives. All of us need to have our knowledge sharpened, blind spots in our thinking corrected and resistance to change in our behavior challenged. Discovering Christ offered the optimal environment for behavior change. I matured in my faith as I learned about other parishioners’ experiences. We can expect to find inner peace in and through living out our vocation as disciples of Jesus Christ and directing our lives towards the following of his teaching. Attending Discovering Christ taught me the importance of scriptures. The primary way God speaks to us is through the Bible. God's word brings light to paths that otherwise seem dark, in the bible you learn how to live wisely in God's world, which is the first step toward finding your purpose. If you long to encounter God's love and to enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, come join us for great evenings of sharing, learning and loving! - Carla Jbeily
-
-
-
Therese Moccia'sWhy?
Therese’s Story: When asked what it was that motivated me to sign up and participate in Discovering Christ at St. Mary’s, I realized there were two reasons. One reason was practical (having to do with the earthly needs of this life) and one reason was spiritual (having to do with the life of my soul, both now and hereafter). In a practical, earthly sense, I wanted to get to know parishioners in a manner that was more friendly and connected–something beyond a smile at the beginning of mass and a wave at the sign of peace. Spiritually, I felt as if my prayer life and relationship with God needed a boost of some sort. When I was just 19 years old, Jesus introduced Himself to me in a personal way, through a Bible study in my parish. I accepted His loving invitation to spend time with Him daily–in prayer and Bible reading. Through many years, I’ve strived to keep that commitment to prayer and reading the Bible. It hasn’t been a perfect regime by any means, but God honored my feeble attempts to be faithful. I’ve grown more deeply in my faith and in love with Him by simply trying to ‘show up’ with Him every day. In my personal life though, challenges arose out of raising a large family, being involved in several volunteer services, and experiencing some unanticipated twists and turns in my life’s journey. My commitment to prayer was challenged daily. The Discovering Christ program sounded inviting so I signed up for the program and stayed committed by attending the meetings at St. Mary’s on a regular basis. I was so blessed to become acquainted with members who shared their faith through the small group/table discussions which followed clear, informative and inspiring videos. There was a spirit of genuine authenticity–moments of both laughter and serious sharing. Oh, and this all happened after we had shared a wonderfully delicious meal served to us by other involved parishioners. Again, the practical and the spiritual–body and soul. I encourage you to take a moment from your busy day to consider why you may want to attend, or have a need, for these parish discussion groups. Come and see, try it out! I have found the benefits, both spiritual and practical, to have blessed my life in ways I could not have imagined! God is full of surprises that rise out of His deep, personal love for each and everyone of us! - Therese Moccia
-
Dan Germaine's 'Why'?
To be honest, I participated in Discovering Christ because I longed for the fellowship of the parishioners that I worship with and I long for the body of Christ. I got more than I expected and not only in the relationship with my fellow parishioners but also with my relationship with Jesus Christ and the body of Christ. Most of all what I experienced, was what I learned about myself and my faith journey. What I also found very impactful were the conversations with my fellow parishioners in this formation that was like ambrosia to me. The realizations that we all loved to hear from one another and how they strengthened us. It became so personal to share the special moments in our faith, in our thoughts, and the love we shared as a group. Discovering Christ changed my life and made me focus more on what was important to me in practicing my faith. It made me grow and understand more than I could have ever imagined. I came to realize that before I participated in Discovering Christ, I had become complacent in how I was practicing my faith as a Catholic. I was too comfortable and wasn’t allowing Christ to really challenge me with the Gospel message. I highly recommend this formation to all the Saint Mary’s parishioners. Young, old, new or longtime practitioners. I can promise this to you; it will change your life and give you more understanding and in return your Faith will be stronger, your heart will be fuller to your fellow parishioners and your understanding of our Catholic faith will be more beneficial to you than you can ever imagine. I urge you to give this gift to yourself and be part of Discovering Christ. If you would like more information, feel free to contact me.
-
-
-
JoanSanGiacomo's 'Why'?
When I started seeing the emails last fall for Discovering Christ, I was intrigued, but not really sure. It was constantly on my mind, but I really was confused. I thought I had a close connection to the Lord but maybe something was missing. I decided to sign up and give it a try knowing I could always leave it. Strangely enough, I never left. It was everything I hoped it would be and more.
The video presentations were exceptional. I started watching them over on my own and felt as though I had really been missing so much in my relationship with Christ. I loved our small group discussions; everyone had such interesting viewpoints discussing the topic of the film. It was amazing how helpful that was. Each week we were becoming a family growing in our faith, our journey together. It was a great feeling and I looked forward to the next week. I could feel the closeness to the Lord and I was loving it.
Discovering Christ was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. It really has changed me in so many ways. I can’t get through a day without reading scripture and having private time with our Lord. I can feel Him with me all the time and I constantly talk to Him. He is my best friend. I hope to keep growing stronger in my faith. I hope that you will give this a try. You will become so much happier and fulfilled. You have nothing to lose, but everything to gain.Joan SanGiacomo
-
Ellen Wheeler's 'Why'?
Before I went to Christ Life I was in and out of the church and struggling with my faith. Going to Christ Life, watching the videos, and talking in small discussion groups about the role of the Holy Spirit and the meaning of life, and putting Christ into my daily life transformed me. Because of my participation in ChristLife, I started praying and meditating on a daily basis. I came out of it with a much deeper relationship with God. I got to meet some very nice people who encouraged and supported one another. And my faith has grown immensely. So, if you would like to experience a better relationship with God, come join us. - Ellen Wheeler
-
Mary Spiteri's 'Why'?
I was interested and curious about the Discovering Christ program from the first time I heard about it. What was it? Who would be there? Would I feel like I belonged? Spoiler alert: it was all so wonderful and the best thing I’ve done for myself and my faith.
Even though I have been a practicing Catholic, I learned many things about my faith and the Holy Spirit. It even encouraged me to purchase my first bible and begin praying more. The best part was growing closer to God and having a more personal relationship.
I met new people. I got to know the people that I see in mass each week. I made new friends. Everyone was so welcoming! Even though I am generally shy, I felt comfortable sharing my thoughts, stories, and experiences.
After having the delicious dinner that was made for us, we watched a great video from the Christ Life team, then discussed it with our small group at our table. We learned a lot about the Holy Spirit and the gifts he can give us. Throughout the weeks, I thought about the Holy Spirit a lot but couldn’t remember all of the seven gifts, which would result in me Googling many times. On our retreat day, while in the back of the church, I saw the basket of Rosary beads in their little bags to take if you needed one. I was drawn to the red pair but thought I already had a rosary at home, but the thoughts persisted, and I took the red rosary. Later, during our quiet time, I opened the bag and saw that the rosary had both a dove and a list of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit on it. I carry them with me all the time. God always leads us to what we need. I needed to be closer to God, and I was led to Discovering Christ.
For YOU, please give it a try. It feels so good to be closer to God. - Mary Spiteri
-
-
-
Tina Regina's 'Why'?
Many stories begin with, "where shall I start"? This is how I would like to start mine. Where shall I start? How did I find myself in Discovering Christ gatherings? It's really beautiful actually. I found myself in a scary place in my life. Debilitating grief of many loved ones, hopeless of helping myself or others, lonely even though I have a family. Family struggles ... I could continue on with more negative things that were happening all around me, I was very scared.
I know now that Jesus called me and put me exactly where I needed to be! With a wonderful group of people in Discovering Christ. I have tried a few different avenues to help myself and my loved ones, but nothing holds a candle to the experience I received in Discovering Christ. When I first started, I was a bit reserved, but as the weeks went by I found myself looking forward to our meetings with this group. They became my spiritual family. You see, not only did this group help me with everything I was facing, but I found serenity and peace during our discussions like I've never felt before, and a loving, close relationship with Jesus Christ.
The beautiful thing about my story is, that Jesus led me to this group, and little did I know he was protecting me and surrounding me with so much love! As I look back and unfold my story, Jesus is truly amazing! He worked with me, through me, and around me. His work is beautiful! Discovering Christ was nothing less than life-changing. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to participate in something so beautiful. I love my faith, and I have Jesus to thank for that!
When I follow the Lord, I am never alone!
Tina Regina
-
Alina Urdaneta's 'Why'?
The “Discovering Christ” virtual formation was a soothing balm for my soul and at the same time a jump-start to a deeper relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
One would think that at my stage in life, my faith and the role of the Holy Trinity in my life are well established. Yet the sadness of losing my son to cancer two years ago has changed my outlook on life. I grieve with hope—as Saint Paul invites us to do—and that keeps me going, but finding joy in the everyday has become challenging at best.
During this formation the Holy Spirit genuinely helped me become immersed in Christ’s message of faith and hope. I felt awakened to take actions that Christ is inviting me to take. To look at life and find joy in the everyday, to be grateful for what I have, to remember that life has a purpose beyond personal tragedy, and that Christ is our unfailing friend. Of course, you must nurture that friendship, and if you do, that friendship becomes real, present and enough. Daily invocations and conversations with Christ are becoming commonplace and my trust in Him at the center of new found strength to live this life on earth (whatever is left of it) to its fullest.
A beautiful part of this experience is the bond I’ve made and continue to build upon with my fellow parishioners. During this program they shared life stories and how they live their faith. That has also been the work of the Holy Spirit. Getting to know them better during this journey has been a privilege. I treasure this bond and hope I can be as valuable to them as they have been to me.
The Discovering Christ formation was the beginning of a virtuous cycle of love and an active friendship with Christ. I encourage everyone who is thirsting for more in their lives to participate in this formation beginning Tuesday October 6th and start this virtuous cycle without delay. For more information you can contact me directly or staff member Darrin.
Alina Urdaneta
-
Pat Dorsi's 'Why'?
I am a “cradle Catholic”. I received a Catholic education from K through Graduate School and I worked full-time in Church Ministry for more than 30 years.
When Christ Life was first offered at St. Mary’s, I signed up thinking I might have an opportunity to share ideas with other parishioners that they might find helpful. However, I was not prepared to have my knowledge of our Catholic faith transformed from a mostly theological understanding to a more personal and loving relationship with Jesus.
All of the components of Christ Life—the prayers, videos, faith sharing, and discussions, served as catalysts in my deepening spiritual growth as a disciple of Jesus. Looking back today, I realize that the greatest impact I experienced through participating in Christ Life was in my personal prayer life.
I no longer spend time in prayer—I spend time with Jesus. My prayer no longer consists of a listing of my wants and needs—I learned to cherish silence and listen for the myriad ways Jesus is present to me throughout one single day. I no longer think of others as friends or foes—I see all people as Icons of God with whom I can laugh, cry, serve and pray.
The Holy Spirit has awakened within me the desire to know, love, and serve God by better getting to know, love, and serve my fellow parishioners and our community at large.
God has great plans for His People! I invite all of you to consider joining us this September by signing up to participate in Christ Life. It will be a decision that you will not regret! -
Pat Dorsi
-
-
-
Valerie DeVito's 'Why'?
When I was introduced to the Christ Life program “Discovering Christ”, I was motivated to participate because I wanted the journey that I started several years ago with “Be My Witness”, to continue. “Discovering Christ” is not only a pathway for continuing my journey of coming to know God and our Lord, Jesus Christ in a more profound way, it is also a catalyst for those who wish to begin their own journey.
I loved “Discovering Christ” because it is more than a program; it is an event that offers the opportunity to enjoy food, fellowship and faith sharing with other parishioners as we journey together toward a closer relationship with and a deeper understanding of God and his Son, Jesus Christ.
“Discovering Christ” has greatly impacted my personal faith journey. Despite having an active and happy life, there were many times when I experienced a feeling of being lost. I wondered what my purpose was and often felt a lack of fulfillment. I realize now, after experiencing a greater understanding of God’s love and mercy, that the purpose of my life goes beyond achieving my original expectations of happiness and pleasure. Both of which can never be fully realized except through the love and mercy of God. I read scripture now seeking to understand how God wants me to live. I meditate on God’s words and how they relate to my life here and now. I have come to trust that my life is unfolding as it should and that God is leading me. I feel that I have found my way.
If you are feeling a need or lack of something in your life, “Discovering Christ” is a great way to begin your search. As written in Matthew’s Gospel 7:7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; Seek, and you will find; Knock, and it will be opened to you”.
By bringing the life, love, and truth of Jesus into the light, “Discovering Christ” can truly change people. It certainly has changed me.Valerie DeVito
-
Nelie Tucker's 'Why'?
Many years ago through a Life in the Spirit seminar, I surrendered my life to Jesus and experienced a new life in the Holy Spirit. Much grace and love-filled my life. Last year at St. Mary’s I went through the Discovering Christ course. I experienced a renewal of the Holy Spirit giving me more joy, peace, and a sense of God’s presence in my life. I am now part of a Prayer Team praying for all who will be participating in Christ Life starting in September. May the Lord bless you with open hearts as you sign up for this journey with Jesus.
Nelie Tucker
-
Linda Hyland's 'Why'?
I joined Christlife because of the prior experiences I had in other groups from St. Mary’s. My journey toward a better relationship with Jesus started about 6 years ago when I joined St. Mary’s Senior Group. There we all began reading and discussing the scripture for the next mass. In doing so, we all began sharing our stories and I started realizing how connected we all became to each other. I also became more aware of how much Jesus had been a part of my life as God’s plan unfolded for me. I felt a sense of community and belonging. I now knew some of the people that I was sitting with at mass. I felt I was part of a church family. I knew a program like this should be available to the younger population of our parish.
The opportunity for that type of program occurred a few years later with the Be My Witness program. I joined at first as a participant and then as a facilitator. This program further developed my relationship with Jesus and an even stronger sense of religious community with a more diverse group of parishioners. Now I knew even more parishioners as I participated at mass having developed strong bonds with the members in my groups. However, there still needed to be a program that could take us further, and as good as the Be My Witness program was, some of us felt we needed more.
Along came Christlife, which gave us a great opportunity to learn more about developing a relationship with Jesus, how to follow Him as you go about your daily life, and how to share what you know about Him with others. In Christlife, I am faith-sharing with parishioners of all ages and backgrounds. Through sharing our stories, we not only bond with each other, but we also begin to realize that Jesus has been there for us all along, so now we are more aware of His presence. Jesus is now a part of my daily life as I try to show His love to all by how I live my life and how I interact with others. “What would Jesus do” guides my actions, words and deeds as I feel He is always by my side. I am not hesitant as I once was about talking about Jesus, God, or the Holy Spirit in my daily interactions with others. Because of this, I seem to attract and be attracted to others who have a desire to “love one another as I have loved you”. There is a joy and happiness in my life that increases daily, as I am able to share that joy and happiness with others.
Linda Hyland
-
-
-
Eileen Lutz's 'Why'?
When I read in our bulletin last year that our parish was having a program entitled Christ Life, I registered to attend the introduction session. At that session, there were parishioners who had attended the Christ Life Program the previous year. They educated me on the value of attending. They told me it was a journey, and the sessions were the pathway. After listening to their enthusiastic sharing about this program, there was no doubt in my mind that I would register to attend.
What a Blessing. The sessions enlightened me on our faith, and the group enlightened me on life. Clarity, integration, and prayer, were what I received from this dynamic program. It brought a deeper meaning to my Catholic Faith, and integration of the Old and New Testament enhanced my prayer life.
Christ Life also demonstrated so clearly, that every time I go directly to God, He keeps pushing me back to people, this is what Jesus taught us. He went to the people to teach. It was His journey…
Another fact for which I feel grateful is that during the Covid Pandemic I could attend this program online. It enlightened and enriched my daily life and enhanced my faith.
Darrin Nelson, our Vibrant Lay Minister conducts each session in a welcoming manner and invites our participation. Each week I looked forward to another meeting with Darrin and our group.
I feel grateful that Monsignor Benwell brought this enrichment program to our parish. Christ Life blended the Old and New Testaments and emphasized the coequal humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ. This program highlighted that Jesus accomplished His mission through people, e.g. The Apostles, Mary Magdalene, Jews, Romans, and followers from all walks of life.
I encourage you to register and attend this program. Christ Life had a major positive impact on my spiritual life.
Eileen Lutz
-
Dave Tucker's 'Why'?
Christlife is coming to St. Mary’s this September. There won’t be any blaring trumpets or marching bands, just a series of announcements in the Bulletin, and a few nervous folks standing up after mass to talk about how they experienced God’s love being poured out on them through the course and the team.
Don’t think of it as just another “program” though. Think of it as another “chance” for you to personally respond to God’s call to grow closer to him, renew your faith, maybe find something that was lost.
When I first heard about Christlife, part of me said “why bother?” I attend mass on Sundays and often during the week, get to confession and even try to pray daily and say a rosary. Happily, another part of me said “why not?” Fortunately, the “Why Not” part won.
As I look back on what Christlife has come to mean to me, the scripture verse “Seek First The Kingdom” comes to mind. It’s from Matthew, chapter 6. When you look it up, start at verse 31, where Jesus is challenging us to not worry about what we will eat or drink or wear and adds “Your heavenly father knows all that you need. Seek First His Kingship over you, His way of holiness, and all these things will be given you besides.”
I Realized I had managed to let other things get in the way of my seeking God, not through any plan on my part, just by not paying attention. Becoming part of the team has given me the opportunity to get my focus back where it belongs.
I know God the Father is very fond of me. I didn’t get a telegram or memo, but the signs of His love are there if I remember to look for them; my wife of 55 years, our six kids and eleven grandkids. Especially the gift of faith I received by becoming Catholic.
It’s a constant challenge not to have all the bits and pieces of my life push God off His throne in my heart. It’s worth the effort, though, as I hear getting Home to Heaven is way better than anything we have here. Hope to see you in September. God Bless.
Dave Tucker
-