St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish News
March 25, 2021
St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish News
March 25, 2021
A MESSAGE FROM
FATHER ANTHONY WROBLEWSKI
When I was a young boy growing up in Saint Paul, I couldn't wait for Holy Week to arrive. Certainly I loved Lent too, and I still do. But I especially loved all the Liturgies of Holy Week. My favorite then, and even today, was Holy Thursday. Everything about Holy Week, from Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday, reminded me of how grateful I was to be Catholic. No one does the ceremony and pageantry of Holy Week as good as the Catholic Church. But more importantly, all of the Liturgies made me so grateful for Jesus Christ, and all that he had done for us.
Another Holy Week is upon us. Once again, we will enter into the mystery of the life, suffering, death and Resurrection of Christ in the many Liturgies that we celebrate. Last year was so difficult, because the only way you could experience it was in a virtual way. This year, after that one-year hiatus, we can invite you back to all the liturgies. So, I invite you to go on that same journey with me! So often I encounter regular Sunday Mass goers who haven’t been to an additional Holy Week Liturgy in many years. We can get so conditioned to our normal routine, that we fail to even consider how the first Holy Week 2000 years ago changed not just our human history, but changed the course of the destination of the end of our lives. Certainly, our Churches will have many people attending Good Friday and Easter Sunday, and that’s a wonderful thing. But as Catholics, we can’t understand those events, unless we also understand how Jesus, on the night before He died, gave us the gift of the Eucharist, and gave us the gift of the priesthood to be able to perpetuate the Eucharistic Sacrifice. So join us for all of Holy Week!
Finally, I come to Holy Week in a very different mood than I did Christmas this past year. Then, we still didn’t know how long this Covid crisis might go on. Vaccines were just beginning, and estimates as to how long it would take for all to be inoculated were all over the place. Now, I have hope that the end of it is near. And I can gather with my parishioners LIVE to be able to celebrate the great events of our salvation. So join us! And please check our something new this year: Tenebrae on Good Friday evening. It is an evening of readings and songs that would be great for all to attend, whether you were at an earlier service or not. Spend the evening of Good Friday, not at a restaurant or watching TV at home, but in Church, feeding your soul on the day our Savior died.
In Christ and Mary Immaculate,
Fr. Tony
CHAPLET OF DIVINE MERCY NOVENA
We invite you to prepare for Divine Mercy Sunday by praying the Divine Mercy Novena beginning on Good Friday. Our Lord gave Saint Faustina a different intention for each day. The intentions are:
Day 1- All mankind, especially sinners
Day 2- The souls of priests and religious
Day 3- All devout and faithful souls
Day 4- Those who do not believe in God and those who do not yet know Jesus
Day 5- The souls who have separated themselves from the Church
Day 6- The meek and humble souls and the souls of little children
Day 7- The souls who especially venerate and glorify His mercy
Day 8- The souls detained in purgatory
Day 9- Souls who have become lukewarm.
Our Cathedral priests will be making available the prayers and intentions for each day on the Cathedral YouTube channel.
HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE
PARISH OFFICE HOURS
The Parish Offices will be closed Good Friday and Easter Monday. Please note, there is no morning Mass at the Cathedral or noon Mass at Star of the Sea on Thursday, April 1. There is no morning Mass at the Cathedral on Good Friday, April 2.
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
STATIONS OF THE CROSS
Cathedral of Our Lady, Friday at 5:30
March 26
The Cathedral Stations will be livestreamed each week and are saved on the Cathedral YouTube Channel where you can watch and pray them anytime.
SUNDAY HOMILY
The Pastoral Council is hosting one more book study night via ZOOM on February 15 (Part 4 of the book) from 7—8:30 PM to discuss I Heard God Laugh by Matthew Kelly. Join us from the comfort of your home and stay for all or part of the session. You are welcome to join even if you could not make it for the first two meetings.
To join, go to zoom.us and enter
Meeting ID: 831 6443 3249 and
passcode: COOL2021.
We look forward to the fellowship and discussion!
ADORERS NEEDED
We are looking for regular adorers on Fridays from about 12:30 PM to 3 PM. To sign up to be added to the schedule, please call Rebecca at 218-722-3078 or click the link below.
PARISH REFLECTIONS
The pandemic has introduced new changes to our lives. There are many restrictions to endure but, through these temporary sacrifices, new opportunities can emerge. It is through these sacrifices we learn more about what truly matters to us.
As a Catholic, I learned that streamed or televised mass does not satisfy my need to participate in the Mass and the sacrament of the Eucharist. Through this temporary sacrifice, I developed a greater appreciation for my faith and the importance of the Mass.
As a member of the Knights of Columbus, I have seen the disappointment from our fellow Knights as we cancel events. However, through these cancellations, our council had the opportunity to reflect on the importance of these events and found new ways to serve the parish.
Even with restrictions in place, our Knights of Columbus council continues to meet. While we miss our gatherings in the Fireside room, our friendship and our deep commitment to the parish comes through clearly during our Zoom meetings. I greatly appreciate the warmth and compassion of my brother Knights; these are truly great gentlemen.
It is through these restrictions and sacrifices I learned a greater appreciation for those in my parish community that I had previously taken for granted. The bond we share in our faith cannot be replaced by Zoom meetings and streaming mass. Our parish life is important and plays an important role in practicing our faith.
-Brandon Olson, Grand Knight - Msgr. O'Shea Council of the Knights of Columbus
As a Catholic, I learned that streamed or televised mass does not satisfy my need to participate in the Mass and the sacrament of the Eucharist. Through this temporary sacrifice, I developed a greater appreciation for my faith and the importance of the Mass.
As a member of the Knights of Columbus, I have seen the disappointment from our fellow Knights as we cancel events. However, through these cancellations, our council had the opportunity to reflect on the importance of these events and found new ways to serve the parish.
Even with restrictions in place, our Knights of Columbus council continues to meet. While we miss our gatherings in the Fireside room, our friendship and our deep commitment to the parish comes through clearly during our Zoom meetings. I greatly appreciate the warmth and compassion of my brother Knights; these are truly great gentlemen.
It is through these restrictions and sacrifices I learned a greater appreciation for those in my parish community that I had previously taken for granted. The bond we share in our faith cannot be replaced by Zoom meetings and streaming mass. Our parish life is important and plays an important role in practicing our faith.
-Brandon Olson, Grand Knight - Msgr. O'Shea Council of the Knights of Columbus
We will be publishing weekly reflections from our parish members. If you have thoughts or writings you would like to share, please email anne.hoeksema@duluthcatholic.org.
CATHEDRAL TENEBRAE SERVICE
Many of you joined us online for our first ever Lessons and Carols in December. Good Friday evening, we invite you to join us for a Tenebrae service. Traditionally, the Tenebrae service is a mix of scripture readings, and songs that tell us of the Lord's suffering and death. This is the type of service that one could attend even if they were at an earlier Passion service. Since we are to keep holy Good Friday, consider joining us for this evening of solemn readings and music. The service will be both in person and livestreamed.
FAITH FORMATION NEWS
This Sunday, called Palm or Passion Sunday, is the first day of Holy Week, which is the most important week in the Church year. It is when we remember Jesus’ death on the cross for our salvation.
During this week, we prepare ourselves for Easter by prayerfully remembering the events of Jesus’ passion and death. As we meditate on the cross, we ask again and anew what it means to make the statement of faith that Jesus, in his obedient suffering and dying, revealed himself to us as God’s Son.
The Triduum begins with the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, and ends with Evening Prayer on Easter Sunday. It includes the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion and Adoration of the Holy Cross on Good Friday, the Easter Vigil in the evening of Holy Saturday, and the celebration of Mass on Easter Sunday. The Triduum is the shortest season of the liturgical year with a total of only three days.
It is often difficult for children to remain attentive during the complexity of the Passion narrative during these days. But there are other ways you can engage your children in the importance of the events of Jesus’ passion and death:
- Each day during Holy Week, the family can gather in a prayerful space with a crucifix as its focal point and read a small portion of the Passion. Provide opportunity for the children to ask questions and respond to the events described.
- Participate in the sacrament of reconciliation.
- Remove religious artwork from the home (to be rehung after Easter vigil).
- Pray the Station of the Cross at one point during the week
- Pray the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary.
- Spend time on Good Friday (particularly between noon and 3 pm) in prayer or reflection. Consider making it a time with no television or Internet.
- Take some quiet prayer time every day to reflect on the importance of the events that we remember this week.
The people shouted Hosanna which means “save us” as Jesus entered Jerusalem. The crowds, like us wanted Jesus to save them. But Jesus’ kingdom was not what they thought. Let us not forget, that Jesus came to save His people for the Kingdom of Heaven.
There is no Faith Formation during Holy Week. Classes will resume on Wednesday, April 7th with our K-5 students from 6 PM – 7 PM.
-Sonya Morris, Faith Formation Director
STELLA MARIS ACADEMY NEWS
Stella Maris Academy is thrilled to introduce a new President, Mr. Andrew Hilliker. We look forward to welcoming him as President on July 1, 2021. If you are interested in joining the Stella Maris Academy community, please call 218-623-6253 to schedule a tour or go online to www.stellamaris.academy to inquire and apply.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CONFERENCE
St. Vincent de Paul Society will not meet this week so that we can fully participate in the Triduum. Stay tuned for details on our next meeting scheduled for April 15.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS MONSIGNOR O'SHEA COUNCIL #15761
Your decision to join the Knights
could define your year.
Join Catholic men just like you
striving to strengthen their faith,
their families,
and their communities
as members of the
Knights of Columbus
Every Knight makes a difference
Each man brings a unique story,
a particular set of skills,
and a heart that is ready to serve.
We invite you to take
this exciting step
and join us today.
It's an opportunity that could define
your year and change your life.
Join us at KofC.org/JoinUs
Bob Spehar 218-349-5051
could define your year.
Join Catholic men just like you
striving to strengthen their faith,
their families,
and their communities
as members of the
Knights of Columbus
Every Knight makes a difference
Each man brings a unique story,
a particular set of skills,
and a heart that is ready to serve.
We invite you to take
this exciting step
and join us today.
It's an opportunity that could define
your year and change your life.
Join us at KofC.org/JoinUs
Bob Spehar 218-349-5051
STAYING HEALTHY AT MASS
As covid-19 cases increase in our area, it is a good time to make sure we are all taking the precautions that are in our control.
Face Masks: Wear a face mask when you are at church. If you are not able to wear a face mask, please obtain a face shield.
Face Masks: Wear a face mask when you are at church. If you are not able to wear a face mask, please obtain a face shield.
Hand Sanitizing Before Communion: When you come up to communion, you will notice there is hand sanitizer in the aisle. To make sure we are doing things safely, first pull down your mask, then sanitize your hands prior to receiving communion.
Cleaning the Pews: After Mass, please sanitize the area in which you are sitting. Sanitizing wipes can be found in the side aisles. Thank you.
JOB OPENINGS:
Parish Auditor: The Diocese of Duluth is seeking a Parish Auditor to conduct parish financial reviews on a three-year cycle. The auditor will also consult with parish staff on complex accounting questions, occasionally conduct special financial investigations and periodically train parish business staff on the accounting software. We are looking for an organized individual who pays close attention to detail, has good verbal/written communication skills, and has a thorough knowledge of internal controls and accounting. This is a full-time position with benefits and is remote. Since travel to parish locations is required, applicants should live centrally within the Diocese of Duluth. To obtain more information, please see our website: https://www.dioceseduluth.org/Jobs.
Director of Faith Formation for 6th-12th Grade Students: East Duluth Catholic Faith Formation is a collaborative effort that has created a combined Religious Education program. We are accepting applications for the Director of Faith Formation for 6th – 12th grade students. This is a full-time position with benefits. We are looking for someone who possesses a sincere and demonstrated ability to share their Catholic faith in the dynamic environment of a large-scale middle and high school religious education program and beyond. Please see the full job description. If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter, resume and references to lauren.mccracken@duluthcatholic.org.
Part-Time Maintenance Person: St. Michael’s is looking for a person responsible for maintaining the church and professional building through cleaning and custodial work. Set up for weddings, funerals, and church events as requested. Some shoveling involved. Flexible schedule, approximately 25 hours per week. Contact the parish office for a complete job description or to apply: denise.connolly@duluthcatholic.org or 218-525-1902.
Part Time Custodian/Building Maintenance & Grounds at St. Lawrence Church, Duluth. Approximately 20-25 hours a week. Responsible for maintaining the church building and grounds through cleaning and custodial work, simple maintenance, snow removal, lawn care, overseeing and helping coordinate larger projects, and boiler checks/general maintenance. Strongly preferred to have a boiler license or be willing to acquire one. A complete job description is available at the parish office: 218-722-2259 or stephanie.jago@duluthcatholic.org.
East Duluth Catholic Faith Formation is a collaborative effort that has created a combined Religious Education program. We are accepting applications for the Director of Faith Formation for 6th – 12th grade students. This is a full-time position with benefits. We are looking for someone who possesses a sincere and demonstrated ability to share their Catholic faith in the dynamic environment of a large-scale middle and high school religious education program and beyond. Please see the full job description. If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter, resume and references to lauren.mccracken@duluthcatholic.org.
STEUBENVILLE MISSION TRIP
The annual Steubenville Conference Mission Trip for students in grades 9-12 is tentatively planned for July 6-12, 2021! We are hoping to go to the Steubenville Conference in Springfield Missouri July 9-11.
Registration is open and more information can be found at www.dioceseduluth.org/Mission-Trips
Registration is open and more information can be found at www.dioceseduluth.org/Mission-Trips
STEWARDSHIP, OFFERTORY COLLECTION, & FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS
Thank you for your continued financial support of our parish. Your contributions have enabled us to continue the important work and mission of St. Mary Star of the Sea!
Contributions can also be mailed or dropped off at the parish office at 325 E. 3rd Street Duluth, MN 55805 or made through our online giving platform at https://www.duluthcathedral.com/ and clicking on the Giving Tab, then St. Mary Star of the Sea Fund. Please contact Lauren McCracken, Business Manager at 218-728-3646 or lauren.mccracken@duluthcatholic.org if you need assistance.
FORMED.ORG
MASS TIMES
Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Star of the Sea at the following times with an attendance limit of one-half seating capacity of the church. Please read and follow the protocols.
- Monday-Friday 12:10 PM
- Saturday 4:00 PM
- Sunday 9:15 AM
CATHEDRAL LIVESTREAM MASS
- Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 7 AM
- Wednesday 8 AM
- Saturday 5 PM
- Sunday 10:30 AM
CONFESSIONS
The Sacrament of Penance is offered on Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 12 PM and on Saturday from 3 PM to 3:45 PM at St. Mary Star of the Sea. Confessions can also be scheduled privately by calling 218-722-3078 ext. 12 or 218-728-3646.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION AT THE CATHEDRAL
Eucharistic Adoration is held at the Cathedral each Tuesday from 3 to 7 PM.
HOLY INNOCENTS PERPETUAL ADORATION CHAPEL HOURS
The Adoration Chapel is open Sunday 4 PM to Monday 8 AM and Tuesday 7 PM to Thursday 9 AM.
PARISH OFFICE HOURS
The parish staff is practicing social distancing to help stop the spread of COVID-19. During office hours, you can reach us at 218-722-3078 or ring the doorbell. You can also email rebecca.domagala@duluthcatholic.org. Our hours are 9 AM to 1 PM, Monday through Friday.
PARISH NURSE OFFICE HOURS
Parish Nurse Nancy Turchi holds office hours Tuesdays from 1 PM to 5 PM each week. She can be reached at 218-722-3078 ext. 13.