Rose Drive, March for Life, and Respect Life at Saint Agnes

2015 Respect Life Rose Drive: June 6 & 7

Parishioners for Life will sponsor a Rose Drive to benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life after all Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7th. If you would like to help distribute the roses and collect donations after any of the Masses, please e-mail saparishforlife [at] gmail.com. Children with their parents are welcome to help!

How can we be PRO-life every day?

By maintaining a positive attitude towards others,

appreciating the unique person that God has created in each individual,

reaching out in kindness and compassion,

praying for the unborn, disabled and elderly,

and giving alms to the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable in our society.

“Whatever you did for the least of these, you did for Me.”Matthew 25:40

March for Life - The Walk to Aid Mothers and Children
Boston Common, June 28th, 1:00 pm

Massachusetts Citizens for Life has sponsored the Walk to Aid Mothers and Children for almost 30 years.  This year we will still raise funds for beneficiary groups but we have expanded the focus to a March for Life.

More than 1.2 million babies in Massachusetts alone have died through abortion since 1973.  We must give witness!  Rally speakers include legislators. post-abortive women, clergy, youth, and many others, all led by the music of Lift Ministries.

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Do you like to Run (or walk?)

Calling all runners and walkers… have you heard of the national organization LIFE Runners? It is the world’s largest Pro-Life Running/Walking Team with chapters in all 50 states and 17 countries! LIFE Runners pray and run (or walk) to defend Life from conception to natural death… All in Christ for Pro-Life! There are two chapters in Massachusetts (Springfield and Still River), but no Boston area chapter yet. Would you be interested in starting a Boston area chapter of LIFE Runners? E-mail SAParishforLife [at] gmail.com or call Eileen Cahill at 781-643-5915. This would be a great way for all ages in our parish and our community to work and pray together to support God’s gift of life.

“All life has inestimable value even the weakest and most vulnerable, the sick, the old, the unborn and the poor, are masterpieces of God’s creation, made in his own image, destined to live forever, and deserving of the utmost reverence and respect.”

-Pope Francis

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LOCAL Natural Family Planning

Attention Married Couples!  Would you like…

• a natural, hormone-free way to postpone pregnancy?
• to start a family or have another child?
• to improve communication with your spouse?
• to learn more about church teaching on "the Theology of the Body?"
• to understand why the Bishops were so unsettled by the HHS mandate?

Natural Family Planning (NFP) is an organic, chemical-free method that is just as effective as the Pill at postponing pregnancy and nearly twice as effective as IVF for achieving pregnancy. The divorce rate among couples that practice NFP is less than 2%.

Want to learn more? Josh and Meredith Phelps are certified teachers of a 3-class NFP series, offered in our locale!  For sign-ups, details, or questions about dates, please email Meredith.Phelps [at] gmail.com.

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Project Rachel

Project Rachel is a confidential Catholic outreach ministry offering healing, compassion and hope to women and men hurting from an abortion experience. People are available to listen, to answer questions, to pray for you, and to help in any way. Project Rachel can help begin the experience of forgiveness, freedom and peace waiting for you in the tender embrace of God’s love and mercy. The phone number for Project Rachel is 508-651-3100, email is help [at] ProjectRachelBoston.com, and the website is www.ProjectRachelBoston.com.  All inquiries are confidential.

Fidelity House Fun Fair, Summer Family Camping

Come out and enjoy the sunshine with your kids this Saturday morning at Fidelity House!

Activities run from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at Fidelity House on Medford St. in Arlington.

Need food?  A kid-friendly, grillout lunch is part of the fun!

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Are your relatives calling you?  They want to know what the summer plans are. 

Well before you give away all your dates to in-laws, make sure you mark your calendars!

THIRD ANNUAL SAINT AGNES CAMPOUT

July 10-12, 2015

Greenfield State Park, NH
"Day Campers" invited to join us on Saturday, July 11th*

Details:

1. If you know you are coming (or when you decide you are coming), please use this form, so we can keep track of how many people and WHO we are expecting to meet at the park! Ultimately, I will need everyone to fill out this form, so I have names and numbers in case of any emergency. So go ahead and fill it out ASAP.


2. The dates for this camping trip are July 10-12. We will plan to camp at Greenfield State Park in Greenfield, NH - about an hour-and-a-half drive from Arlington. This park has come highly recommended as a fun and easy park for family camping. The park features camping (with toilets/showers), hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and a camp store.

3. Make your reservations now! To get more information on the park, see: http://www.nhstateparks.org/explore/state-parks/greenfield-state-park.aspx

Reservations are through Reserve America, and can be found here.  We will try to cluster our group around campsite #44 on the small loop near Beaver Pond.  A map is here.

• There are no cabins. You can bring a tent, rent a tent from REI, borrow a tent from a friend, or make a tent (boyscouts anyone?). Cost for a campsite per night is $25 + a small processing fee. This is for two adults and their dependent children. If you plan on bringing a pet, please read the park's pet policy VERY CAREFULLY and be sure to reserve a site which allows pets... since most sites prohibit pets.
• Greenfield State Park Ranger "Harry" was extremely generous to answer my many questions over the phone. He is friendly and helpful, and I can't wait to stay at his park!  Ranger Harry recommends the "Small Loop," sites 26-64 for families with small children, because it is a loop with little traffic and close walking distances.  For the most fun together, try to cluster our reservations around campsite #44.
• This is our third ever Saint Agnes Family Group camping trip. It is meant to build community and friendships that will serve as an organic support network for people in our parish, as well as encourage you to give back to the community in the way you feel called.
  Together, we will take on the great adventure of family camping! While we are really excited about this, we are using the good old KISS rule - Keep it Simple, Stupid. Therefore, we will distribute information about the campground, and a rough schedule of breakfast / activities / dinner / Sunday Masses, etc. However, each family will be primarily responsible for their own specific plans and accommodations. If you don't want to stay both nights - that's fine - come when you can. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE for your own camping trip, camping gear, CAMPING FOOD, and camping survival! We will not be caravanning or providing transportation. We will meet you there!

I will be happy to answer questions, post camping tips, attempt to anticipate concerns, etc. Feel free to contact me with questions at saintagnesfamilies [at] gmail.com. See you there!

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Can't join us on the Parish Campout? Here is another Catholic Family Weekend opportunity in August, linked below (click on it).
We hope you can enjoy a blessed and happy summertime, wherever you are!

VitaNova Catholic Family Weekend

August 14-16, 2015

Greenfield, NH

Weekly Digest

Welcome, EVERYONE!
This week at the parish:

• Tuesday - Family Playgroup (10:30 am), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
• Wednesday - Adult Education Seminar (7 pm)
• Thursday - Saint Dymphna Society (6:30 pm)
• Friday - Saint Agnes School Ice Cream Social (6 pm)
• Saturday  - Fidelity House Children's Fun Fair (10 am - 1 pm), Confessions (3 pm)
• Sunday - Father Sinisa Mass of Thanksgiving (9 am), Coffee and Donuts (after 9:00 am Mass), Adult Choir (10:30 am Mass)

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Parish Social Day!
Due to a lack of enough volunteers Saint Agnes will not be able to host a Vacation Bible School again this summer. However, we will host a day of children’s Bible activities and crafts from 3:30-6:00 pm on Saturday, June 27th, culminating in an Ice Cream Social for the Parish at 6:00 pm, following the Saturday evening Masses. All events will be held in Saint Agnes School Hall and on the lawn outside Saint Agnes School. We would especially like to thank and extend this invitation in a special way to all of the dedicated parishioners who have volunteered in the past year in order to make education and social outreach ministries work. Thank you! If you are interested in helping with the Parish Social Day, please email Marianne Hudelson SaintAgnesFamilies@gmail.com

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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK THE BLOG 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, May 26th, we will meet at Winn Brook Playground (173 Cross St., Belmont).  This park is designed like a maze, and also features a zip line, swings, and tot area. Please bring your own lunch or snack 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, playgroup will be cancelled for the day. Thanks!**

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Respect Life Rose Drive

Parishioners for Life will sponsor a Rose Drive to benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life after all Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7th. If you would like to help distribute the roses and collect donations after any of the Masses, please e-mail saparishforlife [at] gmail.com. Children with their parents are welcome to help!

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Registration for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is now OPEN!
Our parish is very blessed to offer this montessori-based preschool Religious Education Program.  This program serves children ages 3 to 5 years, and children age 6 years, if they will not be entering the 1st Grade.  The children must be potty-trained and able to go to the restroom on their own.  There are a limited number of seats, to be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, determined by the date the registration form is received.  Registration will close on Friday, June 5th. Registration forms available at the Parish Center and should be returned to the Religious Education Office. You may contact the Religious Education Office at 781-646-5579 if you wish to have the form mailed to you. For information about the program, call Jean Keiselbach (781-646-0475).

FALL 2015 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!

FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K

SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8

ARLINGTON CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

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!

Summertime: Parish Campout, Fidelity House, and Youth Programs!

Are your relatives calling you?  They want to know what the summer plans are. 

Well before you give away all your dates to in-laws, make sure you mark your calendars!

THIRD ANNUAL SAINT AGNES CAMPOUT

July 10-12, 2015

Greenfield State Park, NH
"Day Campers" invited to join us on Saturday, July 11th*

Details:

1. If you know you are coming (or when you decide you are coming), please use this form, so we can keep track of how many people and WHO we are expecting to meet at the park! Ultimately, I will need everyone to fill out this form, so I have names and numbers in case of any emergency. So go ahead and fill it out ASAP.


2. The dates for this camping trip are July 10-12. We will plan to camp at Greenfield State Park in Greenfield, NH - about an hour-and-a-half drive from Arlington. This park has come highly recommended as a fun and easy park for family camping. The park features camping (with toilets/showers), hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and a camp store.

3. Make your reservations now! To get more information on the park, see: http://www.nhstateparks.org/explore/state-parks/greenfield-state-park.aspx

Reservations are through Reserve America, and can be found here.  We will try to cluster our group around campsite #44 on the small loop near Beaver Pond.  A map is here.

• There are no cabins. You can bring a tent, rent a tent from REI, borrow a tent from a friend, or make a tent (boyscouts anyone?). Cost for a campsite per night is $25 + a small processing fee. This is for two adults and their dependent children. If you plan on bringing a pet, please read the park's pet policy VERY CAREFULLY and be sure to reserve a site which allows pets... since most sites prohibit pets.
• Greenfield State Park Ranger "Harry" was extremely generous to answer my many questions over the phone. He is friendly and helpful, and I can't wait to stay at his park!  Ranger Harry recommends the "Small Loop," sites 26-64 for families with small children, because it is a loop with little traffic and close walking distances.  For the most fun together, try to cluster our reservations around campsite #44.
• This is our third ever Saint Agnes Family Group camping trip. It is meant to build community and friendships that will serve as an organic support network for people in our parish, as well as encourage you to give back to the community in the way you feel called.
  Together, we will take on the great adventure of family camping! While we are really excited about this, we are using the good old KISS rule - Keep it Simple, Stupid. Therefore, we will distribute information about the campground, and a rough schedule of breakfast / activities / dinner / Sunday Masses, etc. However, each family will be primarily responsible for their own specific plans and accommodations. If you don't want to stay both nights - that's fine - come when you can. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE for your own camping trip, camping gear, CAMPING FOOD, and camping survival! We will not be caravanning or providing transportation. We will meet you there!

I will be happy to answer questions, post camping tips, attempt to anticipate concerns, etc. Feel free to contact me with questions at saintagnesfamilies [at] gmail.com. See you there!

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As you make arrangements for the summer, make sure you check out our own awesome parish resource - Fidelity House!

Fidelity House offers many community summer youth programs including day camps, a summer preschool program, sports camps, and Full Day Programs!  They also have adult leagues, and a certified preschool and Pre-K that have open enrollment and start in the fall!

For more information, visit www.FidelityHouse.org

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Get involved this summer: YOU are our Parish!

Are you looking for ways to become more involved in our parish this spring/summer?  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/Summer 2015 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

1. Respect Life Rose Drive
Parishioners for Life will sponsor a Rose Drive to benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life after all Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7th.  If you would like to help distribute the roses and collect donations after any of the Masses, please e-mail saparishforlife [at] gmail.com. Children with their parents are welcome to help!

2. Second Annual Vacation Bible School
*Monday, June 29th thru Thursday, July 2nd.  6-8 pm, with dinner provided for volunteers.
*Ice Cream Social for the parish starting at 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 2nd.
*Help pass on your faith and gifts of hope and joy to the children of our parish.

3. Sacristans
Our parish's faithful “Monday morning Sacristans” are looking for volunteer help. Each Monday morning, parishioners come and spend a few hours cleaning up our beautiful Church and getting things ready for the week ahead. If you can help in this very worthwhile ministry, please call the Parish Center, 781-648-0220, as soon as possible. Thank you.

4. Boston Sock Exchange
*Second Saturday of every month, 11:00 am at Park Street T-Stop, downtown.
*Prep is 7:00 pm on Friday evening immediately preceding the appointed morning hand-out.  Meet at the Parish Center for prep work.
*To become involved, email Sheila O'Brien (ObriensMo [at] hotmail.com)

3. Give an elderly parishioner a ride to your regular Sunday Mass

4. Volunteer as a coffee hour helper following the 9:00 am Sunday Mass.  Volunteers work about once every 10 weeks during the school year.

Can you help?  Fill out an easy form, HERE.

Also check out:

• Links at the top right-hand page for: Saint Agnes Parish, Saint Agnes Music Ministry, Fidelity House, Saint Agnes School, and Arlington Catholic High School.
• Ongoing ministries that need help include: Boston Sock Exchange, Driving Parishioners to Mass, and Sunday Coffee Hour
• See our Parish Pamphlet, to help you learn about all of our parish's different ministries.

Weekly Digest

Welcome, EVERYONE!
This week at the parish:

• Tuesday - Family Playgroup (10:30 am), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm), Boston Pops trip with Saint Camillus (8 pm)
• Wednesday - Arlington Catholic Women's Club Luncheon (11:30 am), Arlington Catholic HS Baccalaureate Mass (7 pm), Bereavement Meeting (7 pm)
• Thursday - Arlington Catholic HS Graduation (2 pm, Bentley College)
• Friday - Holy Hour for the Men to be Ordained (7 pm, St. John Seminary in Brighton)
• Saturday  - Ordination Mass (9 am, Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston), Confessions (3 pm)
• Sunday - Coffee and Donuts (after 9:00 am Mass), Adult Choir (10:30 am Mass)
• Monday - Happy Memorial Day!

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Saint Agnes Outreach would like to host our parish's Second Annual 4-day Vacation Bible School again this summer from June 29th - July 2nd, 6:00-8:00 pm. Thursday evening will conclude with an ice cream social for the parish, starting at 7:00 pm.  If you are interested in volunteering, or enrolling, please let us know ASAP. Both teens and adults are needed to help. The age ranges offered for attendees will be based on the availability of volunteers, starting with 4-7 year olds, and moving upwards in age as warranted. Last year, the program was well-received and appreciated by both parents and volunteers alike. Based on interest and volunteer responses, a final decision will be made on May 20th. Please help contribute to this great project for our parish by emailing Marianne Hudelson (Marianne.Hudelson [at] gmail.com), or clicking the INTEREST FORM here. Thank you!


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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK THE BLOG 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, May 19th, we will meet at Robbins Farm Park (56 Eastern Ave., Arlington).  This park has a great hill, is good for kite flying, and a fun playground and sandbox. Please bring your own lunch or snack 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, playgroup will be cancelled for the day. Thanks!**

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Respect Life Rose Drive

Parishioners for Life will sponsor a Rose Drive to benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life after all Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7th. If you would like to help distribute the roses and collect donations after any of the Masses, please e-mail saparishforlife [at] gmail.com. Children with their parents are welcome to help!

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Registration for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is now OPEN!
Our parish is very blessed to offer this montessori-based preschool Religious Education Program.  This program serves children ages 3 to 5 years, and children age 6 years, if they will not be entering the 1st Grade.  The children must be potty-trained and able to go to the restroom on their own.  There are a limited number of seats, to be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, determined by the date the registration form is received.  Registration will close on Friday, June 5th. Registration forms available at the Parish Center and should be returned to the Religious Education Office. You may contact the Religious Education Office at 781-646-5579 if you wish to have the form mailed to you. For information about the program, call Jean Keiselbach (781-646-0475).

FALL 2015 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!

FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K

SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8

ARLINGTON CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

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!

Date night out at Fidelity House!

Do you need a fun night out with your spouse? Time to let go of the busyness and just enjoy being together!  You can get your date night, drinks, dance the night away, and so much more at

Fidelity House's annual Fundraiser this Saturday night, May 16!

It's not too late to call a sitter, paint your nails, and buy tickets to the Fidelity House 60th Anniversary Party.

Bonus: if you buy two tickets to the party, you earn $30 off any summer program for your kids!

Fidelity House offers many community summer youth programs including day camps, a summer preschool program, sports camps, and Full Day Programs! They also have adult leagues, and a certified preschool and Pre-K that have open enrollment and start in the fall! For more information, visit www.FidelityHouse.org or call 781-648-2005.

Weekly Digest

Welcome, EVERYONE!
This week at the parish:

• Tuesday - Family Playgroup (10:30 am), Saint Agnes Parishioners for Life (7 pm), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
• Wednesday - Bereavement Meeting (7 pm)
• ASCENSION Thursday - See Mass Schedule, below.
• Friday - Jesus in the North End (7:30 pm, Saint Leonard's in Boston)
• Saturday  - Confessions (3 pm), Fidelity House Celebration Fundraiser (6:30 pm)
• Sunday - Coffee and Donuts (after 9:00 am Mass), Adult Choir (10:30 am Mass), Infant Baptisms (2 pm)

This Thursday, May 14th is the Feast of the Ascension.

This is a Holy Day of Obligation.  The Mass schedule is as follows:

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Saint Agnes Outreach would like to host our parish's Second Annual 4-day Vacation Bible School again this summer from June 29th - July 2nd, 6:00-8:00 pm. Thursday evening will conclude with an ice cream social for the parish, starting at 7:00 pm.  If you are interested in volunteering, or enrolling, please let us know ASAP. Both teens and adults are needed to help. The age ranges offered for attendees will be based on the availability of volunteers, starting with 4-7 year olds, and moving upwards in age as warranted. Last year, the program was well-received and appreciated by both parents and volunteers alike. Based on interest and volunteer responses, a final decision will be made on May 20th. Please help contribute to this great project for our parish by emailing Marianne Hudelson (Marianne.Hudelson [at] gmail.com), or clicking the INTEREST FORM here. Thank you!

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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK THE BLOG 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, May 12th, we will meet at Menotomy Rocks Park (127 Jason St., Arlington).  This park is set off from the road along a gravel path.  It is shaded and has an open area good for flying kites or playing soccer.  We can also take a walk around the pond there. Please bring your own lunch or snack 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, playgroup will be cancelled for the day. Thanks!**

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Fidelity House - Date Night!

Fidelity House’s 18th Annual Fundraiser, "Celebrating 60 Years", will be held Saturday evening, May 16th from 6:30-11:00 pm. A silent auction, live auction, food stations, music and dancing will be part of the fun. Tickets are on sale at Fidelity House, and each ticket also is eligible for a $1,000 door prize. Your support is appreciated.  Please visit www.fidelityhouse.org or call 781-648-2005 for more information.

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Respect Life Rose Drive

Parishioners for Life will sponsor a Rose Drive to benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life after all Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7th. If you would like to help distribute the roses and collect donations after any of the Masses, please e-mail saparishforlife [at] gmail.com. Children with their parents are welcome to help!

FALL 2015 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!

FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K

SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8

ARLINGTON CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

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!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Are your relatives calling you?  They want to know what the summer plans are. 

Well before you give away all your dates to in-laws, make sure you mark your calendars!

THIRD ANNUAL SAINT AGNES CAMPOUT

July 10-12, 2015

Greenfield State Park, NH
"Day Campers" invited to join us on Saturday, July 11th*

Details:

1. If you know you are coming (or when you decide you are coming), please use this form, so we can keep track of how many people and WHO we are expecting to meet at the park! Ultimately, I will need everyone to fill out this form, so I have names and numbers in case of any emergency. So go ahead and fill it out ASAP.


2. The dates for this camping trip are July 10-12. We will plan to camp at Greenfield State Park in Greenfield, NH - about an hour-and-a-half drive from Arlington. This park has come highly recommended as a fun and easy park for family camping. The park features camping (with toilets/showers), hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and a camp store.

3. Make your reservations now! To get more information on the park, see: http://www.nhstateparks.org/explore/state-parks/greenfield-state-park.aspx

Reservations are through Reserve America, and can be found here.  We will try to cluster our group around campsite #44 on the small loop near Beaver Pond.  A map is here.

• There are no cabins. You can bring a tent, rent a tent from REI, borrow a tent from a friend, or make a tent (boyscouts anyone?). Cost for a campsite per night is $25 + a small processing fee. This is for two adults and their dependent children. If you plan on bringing a pet, please read the park's pet policy VERY CAREFULLY and be sure to reserve a site which allows pets... since most sites prohibit pets.
• Greenfield State Park Ranger "Harry" was extremely generous to answer my many questions over the phone. He is friendly and helpful, and I can't wait to stay at his park!  Ranger Harry recommends the "Small Loop," sites 26-64 for families with small children, because it is a loop with little traffic and close walking distances.  For the most fun together, try to cluster our reservations around campsite #44.
• This is our third ever Saint Agnes Family Group camping trip. It is meant to build community and friendships that will serve as an organic support network for people in our parish, as well as encourage you to give back to the community in the way you feel called.
  Together, we will take on the great adventure of family camping! While we are really excited about this, we are using the good old KISS rule - Keep it Simple, Stupid. Therefore, we will distribute information about the campground, and a rough schedule of breakfast / activities / dinner / Sunday Masses, etc. However, each family will be primarily responsible for their own specific plans and accommodations. If you don't want to stay both nights - that's fine - come when you can. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE for your own camping trip, camping gear, CAMPING FOOD, and camping survival! We will not be caravanning or providing transportation. We will meet you there!

I will be happy to answer questions, post camping tips, attempt to anticipate concerns, etc. Feel free to contact me with questions at saintagnesfamilies [at] gmail.com. See you there!

Mom's Night and Boston Sock Exchange

Here's a friendly reminder that Mom's-Night-In is THURSDAY, May 7th

We will get together for a stress-free evening, enjoy feminine fellowship, maybe play a game or two, and pray a devotion together.

I will not publish the hostesses address online, 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 8:00 pm.

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"The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread." Mother Teresa

Come serve the homeless in Boston.
Put your faith in action!

This Saturday, May 9th is the Boston Sock Exchange at 11:00 am! This ministry helps the homeless men and women of Boston, by distributing gifts of sandwiches and clothes near the Park Street T-Stop on the second Saturday of the month.

Prep and packaging for the day will be held TOMORROW -- Friday night, May 8th at 7:00 pm in the parish center. Help and/or donations is a wonderful way to put our faith in action!  For more information, see the calendar to the right, or email Sheila O'Brien (ObriensMo [at] hotmail.com).  Participants need to be at least 7 years old, and those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

The Boston Sock Exchange is currently in need of small 8 oz. bottled water, SOCKS, and men's and women's spring clothes.  We also need rain gear: ponchos and umbrellas.  Thank you!

Get involved this summer: YOU are our Parish!

Are you looking for ways to become more involved in our parish this spring/summer?  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/Summer 2015 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

1. Respect Life Rose Drive
Parishioners for Life will sponsor a Rose Drive to benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life after all Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7th.  If you would like to help distribute the roses and collect donations after any of the Masses, please e-mail saparishforlife [at] gmail.com. Children with their parents are welcome to help!

2. Second Annual Vacation Bible School
*Monday, June 29th thru Thursday, July 2nd.  6-8 pm, with dinner provided for volunteers.
*Ice Cream Social for the parish starting at 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 2nd.
*Help pass on your faith and gifts of hope and joy to the children of our parish.

3. Sacristans
Our parish's faithful “Monday morning Sacristans” are looking for volunteer help. Each Monday morning, parishioners come and spend a few hours cleaning up our beautiful Church and getting things ready for the week ahead. If you can help in this very worthwhile ministry, please call the Parish Center, 781-648-0220, as soon as possible. Thank you.

4. Boston Sock Exchange
*Second Saturday of every month, 11:00 am at Park Street T-Stop, downtown.
*Prep is 7:00 pm on Friday evening immediately preceding the appointed morning hand-out.  Meet at the Parish Center for prep work.
*To become involved, email Sheila O'Brien (ObriensMo [at] hotmail.com)

3. Give an elderly parishioner a ride to your regular Sunday Mass

4. Volunteer as a coffee hour helper following the 9:00 am Sunday Mass.  Volunteers work about once every 10 weeks during the school year.

Can you help?  Fill out an easy form, HERE.

Also check out:

• Links at the top right-hand page for: Saint Agnes Parish, Saint Agnes Music Ministry, Fidelity House, Saint Agnes School, and Arlington Catholic High School.
• Ongoing ministries that need help include: Boston Sock Exchange, Driving Parishioners to Mass, and Sunday Coffee Hour
• See our Parish Pamphlet, to help you learn about all of our parish's different ministries.

Baptism Catechesis TONIGHT!

Have you had a new baby? We wish you many heartfelt congratulations!

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 tonight! 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!

Weekly Digest

Welcome, EVERYONE!
This week at the parish:

• Tuesday - Family Playgroup (10:30 am), Baptism Catechesis (7 pm), Fatima Apostolate (7 pm)
• Wednesday - Bereavement Meeting (7 pm)
• Thursday - Mom's Night In (8 pm)
• Friday - Sodality of our Lady Pops Concert (6:30 pm), Arlington Catholic H.S. $10K Drawing Dinner (6:30 pm), Prep for Boston Sock Exchange (7 pm)
• Saturday  - Boston Sock Exchange (11 am at Park Street T-stop), First Eucharist Masses (11 am & 1 pm), Confessions (3 pm)
• Mother's Day Sunday - Children's Choir at 9:00 am Mass (rehearsal at 8:15 am),
  May Procession, Coffee and Donuts (after 9:00 am Mass), Adult Choir (10:30 am Mass)

HAPPY MOTHERS' DAY! Instead of the usual coffee and donuts after the 9:00 am Mass today, please join in the beautiful tradition of honoring our blessed Mother during the annual May Procession.  Following 9:00 am Mass on Sunday May 10th, we will process from the church to the Parish Center where the statue of the Blessed Mother will be crowned. Refreshments hosted by the CCD program will follow in the Saint Agnes School Hall. Come join us! Coffee Hour in the Arlington Catholic Cafeteria will resume next week.

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Saint Agnes Outreach would like to host our parish's Second Annual 4-day Vacation Bible School again this summer from June 29th - July 2nd, 6:00-8:00 pm. Thursday evening will conclude with an ice cream social for the parish, starting at 7:00 pm.  If you are interested in volunteering, or enrolling, please let us know ASAP. Both teens and adults are needed to help. The age ranges offered for attendees will be based on the availability of volunteers, starting with 4-7 year olds, and moving upwards in age as warranted. Last year, the program was well-received and appreciated by both parents and volunteers alike. Based on interest and volunteer responses, a final decision will be made on May 20th. Please help contribute to this great project for our parish by emailing Marianne Hudelson (Marianne.Hudelson [at] gmail.com), or clicking the INTEREST FORM here. Thank you!

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Saint Agnes Family Playgroup - CHECK THE BLOG 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, May 5th, we will meet at Mullen Playground (80 Lockeland Rd., Winchester).  This park has both a fenced area for playground use, and open area good for flying kites or playing soccer.  Please bring your own lunch or snack 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, playgroup will be cancelled for the day. Thanks!**

Here's a friendly reminder that Mom's-Night-In is THURSDAY, May 7th

We will get together for a stress-free evening, enjoy feminine fellowship, maybe play a game or two, and pray a devotion together.

I will not publish the hostesses address online, 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 8:00 pm.

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Boston Sock Exchange

This Saturday, May 9th is the Boston Sock Exchange at 11:00 am at the Park Street T-Stop.  This ministry helps the homeless men and women of Boston, by distributing gifts of sandwiches and clothes near the Park Street T-Stop on the second Saturday of the month. Prep and packaging for the day is held in the parish center on Friday night, May 8th at 7:00 pm. Help and/or donations is a wonderful way to put your faith in action!  For more information, see the calendar to the right, or email Sheila O'Brien (ObriensMo [at] hotmail.com).

The Boston Sock Exchange is currently in need of small 8 oz. bottled water, SOCKS, and men's and women's spring clothes.  We also need rain gear: ponchos and umbrellas.  Thank you!

"Here is what we seek: a compassion that can stand in awe of what the poor have

to carry, rather than stand in judgement of how they carry it." Fr. Gregory Boyle, SJ

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Arlington Catholic $10,000 Lottery!

Arlington Catholic High School’s $10,000 Lottery Drawing is just around the corner; we have a limited number of tickets still available. Come and join us for some food, drinks and fun and, of course, a chance to win $10,000! The drawing will take place on May 8 at Arlington Catholic High School. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the drawing to be held at 7:30 pm. If you would like to purchase a tickets, please contact Lee-Ann at 781-646-5101 or lpepicelli [at] achs.net

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Fidelity House - Date Night!

Fidelity House’s 18th Annual Fundraiser, "Celebrating 60 Years", will be held Saturday evening, May 16th from 6:30-11:00 pm. A silent auction, live auction, food stations, music and dancing will be part of the fun. Tickets are on sale at Fidelity House, and each ticket also is eligible for a $1,000 door prize. Your support is appreciated.  Please visit www.fidelityhouse.org or call 781-648-2005 for more information.

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Respect Life Rose Drive

Parishioners for Life will sponsor a Rose Drive to benefit Massachusetts Citizens for Life after all Masses the weekend of June 6 and 7th. If you would like to help distribute the roses and collect donations after any of the Masses, please e-mail saparishforlife [at] gmail.com. Children with their parents are welcome to help!

FALL 2015 REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR OUR WONDERFUL PARISH SCHOOLS!

FIDELITY HOUSE - Preschool and Pre-K

SAINT AGNES GRAMMAR SCHOOL - Pre-K through Grade 8

ARLINGTON CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

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!