Weekly Digest

Monday, March 31, 2014

Welcome everyone!
This week at the parish:
  • Tuesday - Saint Agnes Playgroup (10:30 am), Baptism Catechesis, Choir Practice and Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
  • Wednesday - Confession (6:30 pm), Bereavement Meeting (7 pm)
  • Thursday - First Friday Confessions (4 pm)
  • Friday - First Friday Adoration (all day, Benediction at 5:00, Mass at 5:30), First Friday Playgroup (10:30 am),
  • Saturday - Saint Agnes School Spring Gala (7 pm)
  • Sunday - Altar Server Installation Mass (9 am), 40 Days for Life (1:30 pm depart), Vespers (4 pm, St. Agnes Church)
  • Monday - Anointing of the Sick Mass at Saint Eulalia's (9 am), Men's Bible Study (7:30 pm)
Saint Agnes Playgroup - CHECK BEFORE YOU LEAVE!
Now that we are in summer mode, we will be holding Tuesday playgroups outdoors at nearby parks. To print a written schedule of our summer playgroup locations, please click here. To see a map of our summer park schedule, please click here.

This Tuesday, April 1, we will meet at Crosby Park (81 Oxford St., Arlington) at 10:30 am. As well as play structures, this park has pavement areas that allow for scooters, bikes, balls. Tennis courts, too. Bring a lunch and join us!


**NOTE THAT our outdoor summer schedule is highly dependent on good weather. If the weather seems questionable, please check your email or the blog page before you leave for playgroup. In case of rain, our usual rain location will be at Fidelity House, 25 Medford St., Arlington. Thanks!**

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Children's Way of the Cross
Children of Saint Agnes Parish will present the Children’s Way of the Cross on Good Friday, April 18 at 12 Noon. Rehearsals for the cast will be held on Sunday, April 13 at 4:00 PM 
and Tuesday, April 15 at 6:00 PM. All children in grades 4-8 are invited to participate. Please contact Tricia Sheehan at 781-648-7709.  We are also looking for new parents to take on this yearly devotion!  If you are able to give yourself in service this way, please contact Tricia Sheehan as well.

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Baptism Catechesis
Don't forget that baptisms for babies at Saint Agnes are held on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 2:00 pm. You must attend Baptismal Catechesis prior to having your child baptized.

Baptism Catechesis happens once a month, and you can go to one on Tuesday night! The briefing session begins at 7:00 pm in the Saint Agnes Parish Center at 51 Medford St., Arlington. The meeting usually lasts under an hour.

If you would like to learn a little more about Christian baptism and why the Catholic Church encourages infants to be baptized, you can read about it here.

Baptism is the sacrament of faith. But faith needs the community of believers. It is only within the faith of the Church that each of the faithful can believe. The faith required for Baptism is not a perfect and mature faith, but a beginning that is called to develop. The catechumen or the Godparent is asked: “What do you ask of God’s Church?” The response is: “Faith!” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1253)

Parenting is certainly not an easy task: it is filled with difficult decisions, personal setbacks and growth, expanding relationships, disagreements, love, AND forgiveness. We offer you our support and encouragement along this journey, and we invite you warmly into our parish and Christian life!

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This Friday, April 4th, is the first Friday of the month.  On Thursday, April 3rd, from 4:00-5:00 pm, there will be the opportunity for confession in the lower church.  On Friday, Saint Agnes will be offering all-day Adoration, concluding with Benediction and Mass at 5:00/5:30pm, in the lower church. Also at noon there will be a Holy Hour to pray for priests and victims of clergy sexual abuse. Adoration is a wonderful opportunity to spend some quiet time with the Lord and gain some focus in our lives - especially with all the busy distractions of daily life. For more background on the long tradition of keeping a First Friday devotion, look here or here.

Also, anyone who wishes to walk across the street to spend time alone with our Lord in Adoration may do so, while the other mothers watch your children in the playroom.  First Friday playgroup is from 10:30 am-12:30 pm at Fidelity House (25 Medford St., Arlington)Fidelity House is being very generous by letting us use this space. Please consider a donation to help with their costs. Suggested donation is $1 per each person attending. Please remember some behavior guidelines: No running out of the playroom, no kids in the toy closet, respect physical limits, use a time-out chair, please discipline your own children promptly Please no food.... drinks in spill proof containers are OK.

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40 Days for Life - Saint Agnes Timeslot is Sundays 2-3 pm
You are invited to join other Christians for 40 days of prayer and fasting, March 5-April 13, for an end to abortion. You are also invited to stand and pray peacefully during this prayer vigil in the public right-of-way outside of Planned Parenthood. The Saint Agnes group will pray each Sunday, 2:00-3:00 PM. We carpool promptly at 1:30 pm from the Community Parking Lot behind Saint Agnes.  Please join us for peaceful prayer at 1055 Commonwealth Avenue.  For more information, please contact Eileen Cahill (EileenTigheCahill [at] gmail.com) or Tom Harvey (THarveyesq [at] aol.com).  For more information on the national campaign, go to www.40daysforlife.com.

Project Rachel

Project Rachel retreats help women find hope, healing and reconciliation after abortion.  If you or a loved one is suffering from post-abortion pain, contact Project Rachel about upcoming "Come to the Waters of Healing" retreats on Saturdays, February 22, March 29, or April 12.  Contact Project Rachel  at help@ProjectRachelBoston.com or 508-651-3100.  All inquiries are confidential.

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Training for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious education program that addresses the religious potential of children ages 3-6 (Level 1).  It is in its 11th year at our parish.  Please consider joining us in this beautiful ministry!  Part 1 of a 2-part catechist training course takes place July 7-12, 2014 (part 2 to take place July 2015) in Clinton, MA.  The cost of Part 1 of the course is $200.  For more information, please contact Kateryna Cuddeback at 617-504-3028 or kcuddeb@gmail.com


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FALL 2014 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!
FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K
SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8
Links to these websites are located at the top right-hand of the blog page.
When you invest and involve your family here, you can participate
in the evangelical mission and service of these community resources,
which are offered by - and in the long tradition of - our very own Catholic Church.
Financial Aid is available.  WOW!

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Classes

Sunday, March 30, 2014

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a wonderful program, which we have the blessing and benefit of at our parish! CGS is an approach to the religious formation of children rooted in the Bible, the Liturgy of the Church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Children gather in an “atrium,” a room prepared for the, which contains simple yet beautiful materials they use to help them absorb the most essential proclamations of the Christian faith. If you are interested in involving your children, keep your eyes on the bulletin for sign-ups in the spring.

Yet, as Joseph Joubert said, "To teach is to learn twice."
Being able to share our faith with our children not only benefits them... it also benefits, edifies, and strengthens our own faith!


Are you interested in becoming a CGS teacher? With devoted parishioners to help this program grow, perhaps someday we could offer Level 2 of the wonderful CGS program! But first you must take Part 1 of a 2-part catechist training course in Clinton, MA (July 7-12, 2014... Part 2 to take place July 2015). The cost of Part 1 of the course is $200. For more information, please click the sign up sheet below, and contact Kateryna Cuddeback at 617-504-3028 or kcuddeb [at] gmail.com.

40 Days for Life on Sunday

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Join us this Sunday to pray for the sins of our world, conversion of heart, renewed mercy, compassion, and LIFE!

40 Days for Life - Saint Agnes Timeslot is Sundays 2-3 pm
You are invited to join other Christians for 40 days of prayer and fasting, March 5-April 13, for an end to abortion. You are also invited to stand and pray peacefully during this prayer vigil in the public right-of-way outside of Planned Parenthood. The Saint Agnes group will pray each Sunday, 2:00-3:00 PM. We carpool promptly at 1:30 pm from the Community Parking Lot behind Saint Agnes.  Please join us for peaceful prayer at 1055 Commonwealth Avenue.  For more information, please contact Eileen Cahill (EileenTigheCahill [at] gmail.com) or Tom Harvey (THarveyesq [at] aol.com).  For more information on the national campaign, go to www.40daysforlife.com.

Project Rachel
Project Rachel retreats help women find hope, healing and reconciliation after abortion.  If you or a loved one is suffering from post-abortion pain, contact Project Rachel about upcoming "Come to the Waters of Healing" retreats on Saturdays, February 22, March 29, or April 12.  Contact Project Rachel  at help@ProjectRachelBoston.com or 508-651-3100.  All inquiries are confidential.

Don't cook tonight! Join us at the Parish Supper.

Friday, March 28, 2014

Friday night: don't stress and don't cook!  Come be a part of our parish community and join us in sharing a meal
and then praying the Stations of the Cross together.  Invite a friend, we hope you can come!

YOU are our Parish! How can you help?

Thursday, March 27, 2014


Are you looking for ways to become more involved in our parish this spring?  There is truly a place for each and every talent in our community.  Below is listed several very specific volunteer needs, however the list doesn't stop there.  If you would like to help at our parish, if you have a passion or a talent you would like to share, but aren't sure how - JUST ASK!  We will point you in the right direction to put these wonderful God-given gifts to work.
In the meantime, if you can help with any of the needs below, please email the Outreach Coordinator, Marianne.Hudelson [at] gmail.com.  Thank you very much!


SPRING 2014 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
*Ongoing: 40 Days for Life Vigil on Sundays, Boston Sock Exchange, Coffee Hour, Driving Parishioners to Mass*

1. Pasta Supper and Stations of the Cross - March 28 at 6 pm
*Students grades 5-8 asked to read a Station
*Volunteers needed for Set Up, Serving Jobs, and Clean Up

2. Pasta Supper, Vocations, and Adoration - April 11 at 6 pm
*Volunteers Needed for Set Up, Serving Jobs, and Clean Up

3. Easter Egg Hunt - April 20th at 10 am
*Volunteers for setup beforehand greatly needed

4. Mass of Anointing - April 26th at 12 noon
*Volunteers are needed as drivers, nurses, greeters, hosts/hostesses and people to make/donate sandwiches and desserts.
Please call the Parish Center, 781-648-0220, and leave your name and number and how you can help.

5. Parish VBS - June 24-27, 9:30-12 noon
*Adult and teen volunteers needed

6. Parish Ice Cream Social - June 27, 6:30 pm
*Volunteers needed for set up, serving, and clean up

Also check out:
  

The Light is On for You, Community Catechesis, & Catholic Reading Wednesday

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Do you need a new start?  The Light is On for You!
Go to confession TONIGHT, or any Wednesday this Lent from 6:30-8:00 pm in our own church,
or any parish or chapel in the Boston Diocese.
All people are welcome to come to the Heavenly Feast, so start with a good confession to our Lord.

What to do in Lent? How can we make this a holy season, growing spiritually and in our relationship with our Lord? Here's are five quick thoughts:
  1. Sacrifice something - give it up. Not for yourself (aka. dieting), but as an offering to the Lord. Put this thing out of your life for a time, and allow God to fill that void with His grace.
  2. Give alms - give from your need, not just your excess. Give money saved by making sacrifices to the poor, lonely, forgotten, and mistreated.  Unite yourself to those who suffer, and give with a sincere and generous heart.
  3. Give time - start a habit of caring for someone that God has put in your life. This may mean beginning a commitment to volunteer, visiting a neighbor in need, or giving more dedicated time to your family.
  4. Go to Confession - recognize your sins, faults, failings, and struggles. Confess them to the Lord sincerely, and ask for His help. God is faithful! Then go out and make amends with those whom you have hurt. Generously forgive those who have hurt you. Offer others the same new beginning which Christ has offered to each of us.
  5. Make a habit of Prayer - start spending time with God, habitually. For some this means going to Daily Mass. For others, it means praying the Rosary, the Daily Readings, or other set devotions. For others this means cracking open the Scriptures. For others it means sitting quietly and listening to God. Whatever way you pray, just do it.
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With many thanks to our wonderful and insightful curator, Karen Celano, you can delve into a faith-related news article each Wednesday! Karen writes:

As Pope Francis celebrates his papacy’s first anniversary, several articles have appeared to review his time in office so far. In a thoughtful piece in Slate, Paul Baumann reflects on why the public’s fascination with Pope Francis may actually detract from his message: focusing on the celebrity of one man, Baumann argues, may create the false impression that “what ails the church can be cured by one man.” He surmises that such intense fixation and reliance on the charisma of one person may prevent Catholics from doing the hard work of turning “toward one another” to reclaim the Church’s “density and richness of worship and mission” and renewing its “public presence.”

Baumann argues that the “fixation on the papacy trivializes the faith of Catholics, the vast majority of whom throughout history have had little knowledge of, and no contact with, any pope.” Historically speaking, Baumann has a point: in the early years of the Church, the papacy of necessity took a hands-off approach to matters of faith and doctrine, functioning more like a "Supreme Court" and allowing diversity of theological opinion to flourish, intervening only when such diversity threatened church unity. The solidification of Catholic identity around the figure of the Pope stems from the Counter-Reformation’s efforts at Council of Trent, where loyalty to the Pope was singled out as a necessary element of Catholic orthodoxy. But the past century of culture and media wars, with the concomitant hardening of ideological and theological lines, has further narrowed popular understandings about the Church, so that “what the Church teaches” has been equated with “what the Pope says.”

Baumann believes that “in any heavily top-down organization, local initiatives fail to gain a foothold. . . and apathy prevails.” I believe, however, that this is precisely the outcome Francis wants to avoid. As John Thavis, author of The Vatican Diaries, says in this interview with the Christian Science Monitor, Francis has been working hard to decentralize the Vatican, curtail the power of the Curia, and strip the papacy of its more monarchical trappings. His more “grassroots” approach seems to be geared towards the very Catholics Baumann refers to: those who are interested in a lived faith of genuine worship and devotion and who seek to find in their Church concrete solutions to problems of suffering and injustice in the world. Perhaps Pope Francis will paradoxically be able to use his celebrity to turn the focus back on the Church as the people of God – that is, you, me, and our parish communities.
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In doing so, of course, the Pope still has to deal with the powerfully negative impressions popular culture has of the Church and its history. Fr. Robert Barron, in his review of the Seth McFarlane-produced science program Cosmos, argues that this remake erroneously emphasizes “modern ideology’s great foundation myth” – that “the physical sciences and liberal political arrangements emerged only after a long twilight struggle against the reactionary forces of religion, especially the Catholic religion.” Pushing back against this notion, Fr. Barron points out that the whole concept of modern science rests on “two fundamentally theological assumptions”: first, that “the world is not divine – and hence can be experimented upon,” and second, “that the world is imbued with intelligibility – and hence can be understood.” He then goes on to list the many famous scientists and scientific theories that emerged out of the great Catholic universities throughout the centuries. It would perhaps be more responsible to see the debates surrounding Bruno and Galileo as not a conflict of science and religion, but rather as debates between conflicting sets of scientific assumptions.

In the realm of biblical interpretation, too, the Church must face its share of scrutiny in the public sphere. Pope Francis’ reported “refusal” to meet Russell Crowe, who stars as Noah in the new Darren Aronofsky film about the Genesis flood, was rumored to reflect the Pope’s disapproval with the artistic license the film takes with the biblical story. But this refusal was non-existent, and both Crowe and Aronofsky, who attended the Pope's weekly Wednesday audience, expressed their admiration for the Pope. The National Catholic Reporter’s movie reviewer Steven D. Graydanus writes a thoughtful interpretation of the film, and argues that Christians should look forward  to a “retelling that defamiliarizes the story, that makes us rethink what we thought we knew.”
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On a different note (though along the same lines of challenging our assumptions about what we think we know), last week a heart-warming, tear-jerking film produced for World Down Syndrome Day was released, featuring fifteen young adults with Down Syndrome urging pregnant women whose babies have been diagnosed with Down Syndrome “not to worry.” Your child will be able to walk, talk, hug you, go to school, write, read, and love, they say. And they end by saying: “Your child can be happy. Just like I am. And you’ll be happy too.” Given the fact that in 2009 an estimated 92% of women who receive a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome opted for abortion, this video is a particularly poignant reminder of the value of all life – even and especially lives that don’t conform to our expectations of what constitutes “normal” or “happy.”


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Community Catechesis WEDNESDAY & Parish Pasta Supper FRIDAY

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

What are you doing at 6:00 pm this Friday night?  Why not join the parish community to come together in the church's traditional prayer remembering Christ's passion and death: the Stations of the Cross.  Take a night off from cooking, bring your family, and join us, even if you have never prayed the Stations before!  The Lord may open your heart to something new, or help you prepare for the joy of Easter.

We also need volunteer help for these upcoming pasta suppers.
We hope you can join our parish in these community events of gathering and prayer!
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Don't forget that tomorrow, Wednesday night March 26th at 7:00 pm is our parish Community Catechesis.  Come to learn a bit about the faith, ask your questions, enjoy refreshments and fellowship with other parishioners.  We hope you can join us!

Playgroup OUTSIDE today!

I was a little worried about the weather this morning, but it looks like it is shaping up to be a nice, sunny morning. Please put on a hat and mittens, and meet us at Parallel Park (174 Medford St., Arlington) at 10:30 am, which is just down the street from Fidelity House.  Bring a lunch for your kids, and we will enjoy the sunshine together!  As of next week, we will have a posted playgroup park schedule.  Thanks for your flexibility as the weather has changed.

Weekly Digest

Monday, March 24, 2014

Welcome everyone!
This week at the parish:
  • Monday - Men's Bible Study (7:30 pm)
  • Tuesday - Saint Agnes Playgroup (10:30 am), Choir Practice and Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
  • Wednesday - Confession (6:30 pm), Bereavement Meeting (7 pm), Community Catechesis (7 pm)
  • Friday - Parish Pasta Supper and Stations of the Cross (6 pm)
  • Saturday - Altar Server Training (1 pm)
  • Sunday - 40 Days for Life (1:30 pm depart), Vespers (4 pm, St. Camillus Church)
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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK BEFORE YOU LEAVE!
The weather is still a bit fickle (unfortunately), so we will continue to gratefully thank Fidelity House for hosting our playgroup within their building.  We owe them our thanks!  We also are grateful to Father Flatley for helping us to get a small curriculum going this year.  Bring your thinking caps and get ready to pay attention to some short activities each week!

Thus, Tuesday playgroup will take place at Fidelity House, right near church: 25 Medford Street, from 10:30 am-12:30 pm.
  • Please remember some behavior guidelines: No running out of the playroom, no kids in the toy closet, respect physical limits, use a time-out chair, please discipline your own children promptly, and be considerate of others!
  • Fidelity House is being very generous by letting us use this space. Please consider a donation to help with their costs. Minimum suggested donation is $1 per person in attendance.
  • Please no food.... drinks in spill proof containers are OK. 
Parking is on the street around Fidelity House. Check the street signs for the rules. Once you walk in the front door, go up the stairs, past the front desk, and to the back of the building. There is a door from the room to an outdoor courtyard, so bring your kids' coats too. We will also teach a brief lesson for the kids.
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Saint Agnes Youth: Join in serving the Lord at Mass!
All parish youth currently in grades 4 and up are invited to join the parish Altar Server program.  Assignments are for approximately two Masses per month.  Instructions sessions, lasting one hour each, are at 1:00 pm in the lower church on Saturdays in March (March 8, 15, 22 and 29).  The Installation Mass for Altar Servers will be on Sunday, April 6th at the 9:00 am Family Mass.  If you have any questions, please call Michael Keiselbach at 781-646-0475.

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40 Days for Life - Saint Agnes Timeslot is Sundays 2-3 pm
You are invited to join other Christians for 40 days of prayer and fasting, March 5-April 13, for an end to abortion. You are also invited to stand and pray peacefully during this prayer vigil in the public right-of-way outside of Planned Parenthood. The Saint Agnes group will pray each Sunday, 2:00-3:00 PM. We carpool promptly at 1:30 pm from the Community Parking Lot behind Saint Agnes.  Please join us for peaceful prayer at 1055 Commonwealth Avenue.  For more information, please contact Eileen Cahill (EileenTigheCahill [at] gmail.com) or Tom Harvey (THarveyesq [at] aol.com).  For more information on the national campaign, go to www.40daysforlife.com.

Project Rachel
Project Rachel retreats help women find hope, healing and reconciliation after abortion.  If you or a loved one is suffering from post-abortion pain, contact Project Rachel about upcoming "Come to the Waters of Healing" retreats on Saturdays, February 22, March 29, or April 12.  Contact Project Rachel  at help@ProjectRachelBoston.com or 508-651-3100.  All inquiries are confidential.

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Training for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious education program that addresses the religious potential of children ages 3-6 (Level 1).  It is in its 11th year at our parish.  Please consider joining us in this beautiful ministry!  Part 1 of a 2-part catechist training course takes place July 7-12, 2014 (part 2 to take place July 2015) in Clinton, MA.  The cost of Part 1 of the course is $200.  For more information, please contact Kateryna Cuddeback at 617-504-3028 or kcuddeb@gmail.com


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FALL 2014 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!
FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K
SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8
Links to these websites are located at the top right-hand of the blog page.
When you invest and involve your family here, you can participate
in the evangelical mission and service of these community resources,
which are offered by - and in the long tradition of - our very own Catholic Church.
Financial Aid is available.  WOW!

Men's Bible Study on Monday

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Arlington Men:  Are you looking for a way to get involved at the parish and grow in your faith?  Look no further, and don't delay!
Saint Agnes bi-weekly Men's Bible Study is held on Monday!

You don't need any background knowledge, just come as you are and enjoy the fellowship of other men who also want to learn something new.  Dates for the bible study throughout the spring are also included on the parish calendar to the right.  So gentlemen: bring your wife some flowers for patiently watching the kids, promise to come home on Mom's-Night-In, and join us!

Saint Agnes Gala Celebration Dinner - Reserve by March 28th!!

Saturday, March 22, 2014

Come enjoy an evening out with family, friends, classmates, and alumni at the Saint Agnes School 125th Anniversary Gala Celebration Dinner! Join us on Saturday, April 5th, 2014 at the Burlington Marriott for drinks, dinner, entertainment, as well as both a silent and live auction. It is certain to be a great night out! Tickets are limited, so reserve yours now by March 28th!

Click and print the registration form below, for a fun night that benefits the ministry of our parish's Catholic school.

Friday Parish Suppers and Prayer

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

What are you doing at 6:00 pm next Friday night?  Why not join the parish community to come together in the church's traditional prayer remembering Christ's passion and death: the Stations of the Cross.  Take a night off from cooking, bring your family, and join us, even if you have never prayed the Stations before!  The Lord may open your heart to something new, or help you prepare for the joy of Easter.

We also need volunteer help for these upcoming pasta suppers.
We hope you can join our parish in these community events of gathering and prayer!

Weekly Digest

Monday, March 17, 2014

Welcome everyone!
This week at the parish:
  • Monday - Sodality of Our Lady (7 pm)
  • Tuesday - Saint Agnes Playgroup (10:30 am), Choir Practice and Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
  • Wednesday - Confession (6:30 pm), Bereavement Meeting (7 pm), Men's Night Out (7 pm) and Arlington Catholic Women's Club (7:15 pm)
  • Saturday - Altar Server Training (1 pm)
  • Sunday - 40 Days for Life Prayer (1:30 pm), Vespers at Saint Agnes (4 pm), 
  • Monday - Men's Bible Study (7:30 pm)
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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup
We are done with Christmas break, and will resume in "Winter Playgroup" mode, when Fidelity House hosts our playgroup within their building.  We owe them our thanks!  We also are grateful to Father Flatley for helping us to get a small curriculum going this year.  Bring your thinking caps and get ready to pay attention to some short activities each week!

Thus, Tuesday playgroup will take place at Fidelity House, right near church: 25 Medford Street, from 10:30 am-12:30 pm.
  • Please remember some behavior guidelines: No running out of the playroom, no kids in the toy closet, respect physical limits, use a time-out chair, please discipline your own children promptly, and be considerate of others!
  • Fidelity House is being very generous by letting us use this space. Please consider a donation to help with their costs. Minimum suggested donation is $1 per person in attendance.
  • Please no food.... drinks in spill proof containers are OK. 
Parking is on the street around Fidelity House. Check the street signs for the rules. Once you walk in the front door, go up the stairs, past the front desk, and to the back of the building. There is a door from the room to an outdoor courtyard, so bring your kids' coats too. We will also teach a brief lesson for the kids.

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Men's Night Out
Join other Catholic men from the parish for a low-key gathering, games (think: Settlers of Catan) and food.  The host's address will not be published publicly online, however if you are interested in joining us, please email Hudelson [at] gmail.com.  Bring a drink or food to share.  We will start at 7 pm. Hope you can join us!

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Saint Agnes Youth: Join in serving the Lord at Mass!
All parish youth currently in grades 4 and up are invited to join the parish Altar Server program.  Assignments are for approximately two Masses per month.  Instructions sessions, lasting one hour each, are at 1:00 pm in the lower church on Saturdays in March (March 8, 15, 22 and 29).  The Installation Mass for Altar Servers will be on Sunday, April 6th at the 9:00 am Family Mass.  If you have any questions, please call Michael Keiselbach at 781-646-0475.

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Hard to schedule times for retreat?  Attend a Mini-Retreat this Lent!
Lenten Mini Retreat for people of all ages will be held on Sunday, March 23, at Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Church, 920 Trapelo Rd., Waltham MA.

Keynote talks by Dr. Ernest Collamati of Regis College and Susie Collamati of Bishop Feehan High School. The Daughters of Saint Paul will offer information on growing in faith using technology and social media. Eucharistic Adoration throughout the afternoon. 
Refreshments. Admission is FREE

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40 Days for Life - Saint Agnes Timeslot is Sundays 2-3 pm
You are invited to join other Christians for 40 days of prayer and fasting, March 5-April 13, for an end to abortion. You are also invited to stand and pray peacefully during this prayer vigil in the public right-of-way outside of Planned Parenthood. The Saint Agnes group will pray each Sunday, 2:00-3:00 PM. We carpool promptly at 1:30 pm from the Community Parking Lot behind Saint Agnes.  Please join us for peaceful prayer at 1055 Commonwealth Avenue.  For more information, please contact Eileen Cahill (EileenTigheCahill [at] gmail.com) or Tom Harvey (THarveyesq [at] aol.com).  For more information on the national campaign, go to www.40daysforlife.com.

Project Rachel
Project Rachel retreats help women find hope, healing and reconciliation after abortion.  If you or a loved one is suffering from post-abortion pain, contact Project Rachel about upcoming "Come to the Waters of Healing" retreats on Saturdays, February 22, March 29, or April 12.  Contact Project Rachel  at help@ProjectRachelBoston.com or 508-651-3100.  All inquiries are confidential.

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Training for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious education program that addresses the religious potential of children ages 3-6 (Level 1).  It is in its 11th year at our parish.  Please consider joining us in this beautiful ministry!  Part 1 of a 2-part catechist training course takes place July 7-12, 2014 (part 2 to take place July 2015) in Clinton, MA.  The cost of Part 1 of the course is $200.  For more information, please contact Kateryna Cuddeback at 617-504-3028 or kcuddeb@gmail.com


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FALL 2014 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!
FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K
SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8
Links to these websites are located at the top right-hand of the blog page.
When you invest and involve your family here, you can participate
in the evangelical mission and service of these community resources,
which are offered by - and in the long tradition of - our very own Catholic Church.
Financial Aid is available.  WOW!

Mom's Night In is Tonight at 7:00 pm

Thursday, March 13, 2014


Here's a friendly reminder that Mom's-Night-In is tonight: THURSDAY, March 13th
We will get together for a stress-free evening, and play some get-to-know-you games (think: Apples to Apples) . I would rather not publish
the hostesses address, so please email me at saintagnesfamilies [at] gmail.com if you plan to come. Please bring a snack or drink to share!
 We will kick it off at 7:00 pm.

The Light is On for You & Catholic Reading Wednesday

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Do you need a new start?  The Light is On for You!
Go to confession TONIGHT, or any Wednesday this Lent from 6:30-8:00 pm in our own church,
or any parish or chapel in the Boston Diocese.
All people are welcome to come to the Heavenly Feast, so start with a good confession to our Lord.

What to do in Lent? How can we make this a holy season, growing spiritually and in our relationship with our Lord? Here's are five quick thoughts:
  1. Sacrifice something - give it up. Not for yourself (aka. dieting), but as an offering to the Lord. Put this thing out of your life for a time, and allow God to fill that void with His grace.
  2. Give alms - give from your need, not just your excess. Give money saved by making sacrifices to the poor, lonely, forgotten, and mistreated.  Unite yourself to those who suffer, and give with a sincere and generous heart.
  3. Give time - start a habit of caring for someone that God has put in your life. This may mean beginning a commitment to volunteer, visiting a neighbor in need, or giving more dedicated time to your family.
  4. Go to Confession - recognize your sins, faults, failings, and struggles. Confess them to the Lord sincerely, and ask for His help. God is faithful! Then go out and make amends with those whom you have hurt. Generously forgive those who have hurt you. Offer others the same new beginning which Christ has offered to each of us.
  5. Make a habit of Prayer - start spending time with God, habitually. For some this means going to Daily Mass. For others, it means praying the Rosary, the Daily Readings, or other set devotions. For others this means cracking open the Scriptures. For others it means sitting quietly and listening to God. Whatever way you pray, just do it.
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With many thanks to our wonderful and insightful curator, Karen Celano, you can delve into a faith-related news article each Wednesday! Karen writes:

As Christians around the world are entering the second week of Lent, Ukrainian Catholics and Orthodox are using this holy season to pray and fast for peace and freedom in their country. Images such as those reported by the Washington Post of priests standing before riot police and ministering to protesters are a poignant indication that, though the roots of the crisis in Ukraine are economic and political, they have deep religious implications as well.

In this thorough article, the National Catholic Register reminds us of the persecution faced by the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (an Eastern-rite Catholic Church in communion with the Holy Father) during the days of the Soviet Union. Memories of these past hostilities have spurred members of the UGCC to support the anti-government protesters who sought the ouster of embattled president Viktor Yanukovych when, amid allegations of corruption and brutality, he sought to deepen Ukraine's financial and political ties with Moscow.

The outcry against Yanukovych has brought the UGCC into alliance with the Kiev Patriarchate, a branch of the Ukranian Orthodox Church that split from the Moscow Patriarchate after the collapse of the USSR. (The Moscow Patriarchate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church has remained in communion with the Russian Orthodox Church.) Despite historical conflicts between the Kiev Patriarchate and the UGCC, leaders of both these churches met at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington in January, signaling a potential religious realignment within Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the Moscow Patriarchate in Ukraine faces a choice of remaining allied with the Russian Orthodox Church (which has close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin and has defended Russia’s actions in Ukraine) or of seeking to ally with the Kiev Patriarchate. But it seems that the overall story in Ukraine has been one of religious unity, especially as Russian military action appears more and more likely. Clearly, though, whatever the outcome of the political situation, Ukraine’s Christian Churches will be deeply affected.

While these dilemmas seem foreign to American minds accustomed to separation of church and state, the situation in Ukraine raises important questions about religion and society for us all. What are the religious responsibilities we as Catholics have to engage in the civic and political life of our communities? What do religions and religious leaders have to say - and should they have a say- in how countries are formed and governed? How can churches engage in interreligious and ecumenical efforts to support freedom and peace throughout the world? What are the political repercussions of church unity or disunity? What are the religious repercussions of political turmoil?

And most urgently right now: how do we support our Ukrainian brothers and sisters who are now living under the threat of war? The very least we can do is to unite our Lenten sacrifices to theirs. Let us join our prayers with those of our Holy Father Pope Francis, that peace and justice will prevail in Ukraine.

Lenten Pasta Suppers - Are you Coming?

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

We had a great time in the sun at playgroup today, finally enjoying the great outdoors!  Keep a close eye on the blog in upcoming weeks, as we may be either inside or outside depending on the changing weather.

This year, Saint Agnes is hosting two wonderful community dinners on Friday Night, featuring simple vegetarian pasta dinners, followed by Stations of the Cross and Adoration (on different nights).  Take a break from cooking, clear the air, bring your family, and give your evening's worth of attention to the Lord!

Replies will be useful to us for accurate food preparation, but not necessary for attendance. We hope you can join us!


Friday, March 28th
6:00 pm – Pasta supper at ACHS Cafeteria
7:00 pm – Stations of the Cross
**Volunteers are needed for reading the stations, acting as candle bearers, and helping with setup and hospitality.**

Friday, April 11th
6:00 pm - Pasta supper at Saint Agnes School Hall
7:00 pm - Benediction and Adoration
**Volunteers are needed for this event to help with setup and hospitality.**

*You are welcome to begin the evening attending the 5:30 PM Mass.
Food service for the dinners will end at 6:30 pm.*

If you would like to help out, contact: Marianne Hudelson [at] gmail.com

Weekly Digest

Sunday, March 9, 2014

Welcome everyone!
This week at the parish:
  • Monday - Men's Bible Study (7:30 pm)
  • Tuesday - Saint Agnes Playgroup OUTSIDE (10:30 am), Choir Practice and Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
  • Wednesday - Confession (6:30 pm), Bereavement Meeting (7 pm), Pro-Life Meeting at Saint Eulalia (7 pm)
  • Thursday - Mom's Night In (7 pm)
  • Friday - Jesus in the North End (7:30 pm)
  • Saturday - Altar Server Training (1 pm)
  • Sunday - Vespers at Saint Camillus (4 pm)
  • Monday - Sodality of Our Lady (7 pm)
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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup
ATTENTION!  ATTENTION!!  By the grace of God, this Tuesday, March 11 is actually supposed to be nice weather!!  We will try our luck at the Teel Street Playground (address is 71 Teel St., Arlington) this week, meeting at 10:30 am.  Come out in the sun, bring a picnic snack or lunch, and join us for some fun with other parish families!

And don't forget to remind your husband to come to the Men's Bible Study at 7:30 on Monday night, where he can enjoy friendship and fellowship as well!


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Mom's Night In - THURSDAY, March 13th at 7:00 pm
We will get together for a stress-free evening, play some get-to-know-you games (think: Apples to Apples), and pray together. I would rather not publish the hostesses address, so please email me at saintagnesfamilies [at] gmail.com if you plan to come. Please bring a snack or drink to share!  We will kick it off at 7:00 pm.

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Saint Agnes Youth: Join in serving the Lord at Mass!
All parish youth currently in grades 4 and up are invited to join the parish Altar Server program.  Assignments are for approximately two Masses per month.  Instructions sessions, lasting one hour each, are at 1:00 pm in the lower church on Saturdays in March (March 8, 15, 22 and 29).  The Installation Mass for Altar Servers will be on Sunday, April 6th at the 9:00 am Family Mass.  If you have any questions, please call Michael Keiselbach at 781-646-0475.

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40 Days for Life
You are invited to join other Christians for 40 days of prayer and fasting, March 5-April 13, for an end to abortion. You are also invited to stand and pray peacefully during this prayer vigil in the public right-of-way outside of Planned Parenthood. If you would like more information, please call the Parish Center at 781-648-0220 and leave your name and number and a committee member will contact you.

Project Rachel
Project Rachel retreats help women find hope, healing and reconciliation after abortion.  If you or a loved one is suffering from post-abortion pain, contact Project Rachel about upcoming "Come to the Waters of Healing" retreats on Saturdays, February 22, March 29, or April 12.  Contact Project Rachel  at help@ProjectRachelBoston.com or 508-651-3100.  All inquiries are confidential.

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Training for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious education program that addresses the religious potential of children ages 3-6 (Level 1).  It is in its 11th year at our parish.  Please consider joining us in this beautiful ministry!  Part 1 of a 2-part catechist training course takes place July 7-12, 2014 (part 2 to take place July 2015) in Clinton, MA.  The cost of Part 1 of the course is $200.  For more information, please contact Kateryna Cuddeback at 617-504-3028 or kcuddeb@gmail.com


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FALL 2014 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!
FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K
SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8
Links to these websites are located at the top right-hand of the blog page.
When you invest and involve your family here, you can participate
in the evangelical mission and service of these community resources,
which are offered by - and in the long tradition of - our very own Catholic Church.
Financial Aid is available.  WOW!

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Hard to schedule times for retreat?  Attend a Mini-Retreat this Lent!
Lenten Mini Retreat for people of all ages will be held on Sunday, March 23, at Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Church, 920 Trapelo Rd., Waltham MA.

Keynote talks by Dr. Ernest Collamati of Regis College and Susie Collamati of Bishop Feehan High School. The Daughters of Saint Paul will offer information on growing in faith using technology and social media. Eucharistic Adoration throughout the afternoon. 
Refreshments. Admission is FREE.