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FROM THE 
PASTOR'S DESK

by Father 
Sandy McDonald

 

Dear Parishioners,

Recently, we began to offer Spanish language instruction weekly.  It has raised the question for some about why we not only do this but also offer Mass and other programs in Spanish within our parish.  Some question whether we are discouraging people from learning English.  I would like to reflect a little about this.

I think the experience of our country's waves of immigration in the past shows that while the first generation struggles and sometimes does not become bilingual, the second generation is integrated fully.  Unfortunately, until our country gets a more coherent policy and practice in regard to immigration, I suspect that may of the illegal immigrants in our midst will have little incentive to learn English, given their "shadow" status in our economy and country.  People will invest in the language if they are given opportunity to be a part of the dominant culture.  Economics also drives learning the dominant language.  Should people be allowed to stay in the U.S., I don't worry too much about their assimilation.

We have mass in Spanish for a number of reasons.  I hope someday it will not be necessary.  But throughout its history, the Catholic Church has always when possible reached out to immigrants - think of all the national parishes in the Northeast and Midwest over the last century-including having devotions and preaching in native tongues (the mass itself, of course, was in Latin,.)  People continue to pray in their native language because prayer is such a matter of the heart.  And if we do not offer mass in Spanish to the first generation, other churches are quite happy to fill the need.  Needless to say, where there are large numbers coming to our country who speak other languages, the church tries to reach out to them as well.

Our religious education programs are entirely in English for Hispanic children-they are integrated in with the rest of the children.  It goes to show that the second generation learns the local language quickly.  We do provide books that are bilingual, however, so that the parents can follow along more easily with what their children are studying.

It is a very complex issue.  But the Bible mandates that we welcome the stranger.  The church finds itself with millions of new people-however they arrived-who are Catholic and need welcome and pastoral care.  And the people who are arriving from all over the world will inevitably bless our church with the richness of their ways of being Catholic.  Isn't that in the end what it means to be "catholic," that is, universal?

Sincerely,
Fr. Sandy McDonald

 

LITURGY TO GO ……. 

THE :SOLEMNITY OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD"

The Feast of the Ascension marks the elevation of Jesus into heaven by His own power and in the presence of His disciples.  This occurred on the 40th day after His Resurrection, thereby completing the work of our redemption.  The readings for this day suggest an emphasis on the mission that flows from membership in the church, also known as "The Great Commission."  Our ancestors commemorated the significance of this event as early as the 5th century with frescoes and diptychs, which were often decorated elaborately..

 

PICTURES FOR NEW DIRECTORY.  LAST CHANCE!  There will be one make-up date for having your picture taken for the new directory at St. Andrew's on May 1st, from 3-9 p.m. and at one date at St. Paul's, on May 2nd, from 3-9 p.m.  Sign-up sheets are in the gathering space at each church, or call Laura Towery at (770) 967-0400 if you want to sign up or if you need to change your scheduled appointment.

 

CONVERSATIONS WITH FATHER SANDY are continuing. If you would like to be included in a drawing to attend a future “Conversations With Fr. Sandy,” please fill out a form located in the pews and place it in the collection basket. For more information, please contact Brenda Skipp, 882-6366.

 

FLU SEASON IS UPON US

A Note on Health: At this time of year, we expect influenza to arrive in our area. It is especially important to practice good hygiene so as to minimize transmission of any of the ‘bugs” that make the rounds. Cough into your sleeve rather than in the air or into your hand. Wash hands frequently, using soap and warm water for 20-30 seconds. Flyers explaining these practices have been posted in all of our churches since last flu season. Be aware, too, that some who wish to avoid getting sick may be hesitant to shake hands. We should assume when this happens that it is not a matter of unfriendliness. Finally, if you are sick it is best to stay home from Sunday Mass, and if you are present at Mass, it is best to not take the precious blood. Thanks to all for being sensitive to one another.

 

WE NEED YOU! Children’s Liturgy of the Word Ministry at St. Andrew’s and St. Paul’s is looking for parents, college students, young adults, etc. to become a team member! Call Stacy Smith at 653-9940 (St. Andrew’s) or Cathy McAlpine at 885-9390 (St. Paul’s) with any questions; we’ll have a new training workshop soon! Parents of young children (3-5) are especially invited to attend Children’s Liturgy with their children and see if this is a ministry they would like to participate in-it’s fun, rewarding, and you, as well as the children, will be touched in many ways by God’s Word. If we have enough teachers, each one may only need to commit to a Sunday every 4-6 weeks. If we do not have enough teachers, the program will not continue.

 

ROSARY BEADS BROKEN? Leave them in St. Paul’s office in the envelope supplied for free repairs. Office hours are 9-12 Monday – Friday. 882-8551 to check.

 

ARE YOU NEW TO ST. ANDREW’S? ST. PAUL’S? ST. FRANCIS? Please take the time to register - we would like to welcome all newcomers.

 

OPPORTUNITY FOR FAMILY MARIAN DEVOTION. Any household is welcome to bring a statue a Our Lady of Fatima to their home for a week at a time. An accompanying handbook of prayer will help guide devotion. If you are interested, contact Theresa Fajardo at 864-886-8047 or by email tfajardo@hughes.net and we will make arrangements for you to have this devotion in your home.

 

A Liturgical Note…

NEW LECTOR WORKSHOP COMING YOUR WAY!  There will be a workshop on Tuesday, April 29th, for parishioners who would like to train as lectors in our three-church parish.  It will be held at St. Paul's at 7:00 p.m. in the church.  You MUST register to attend by calling Bill Shea at 944-1566 or Paula at 654-1757.  If you have a strong voice to proclaimn God's Word and a love of God's Word, this workshop is for you!  Questions?  Call Paula at 654-1757.

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The Sacrament of Baptism takes place during the celebration of Sunday Liturgy. Dates and churches are: April 26 @ 5:30 PM @ St. Paul’s - May 25 @ 10:00 AM @ St. Andrew’s – June 22 @ 9:30 AM @ St. Paul’s – July 19 @ 5:30 PM @ St. Paul’s and August 24 @ 10:00 AM @ St. Andrew’s. Please call Paula at the church office (654-1757) for a baptismal packet and information. If this is your first child you must also attend a baptismal preparation class: for Spanish preparation call Sr. Joan Kobe (638-2984) or for English preparation call Anne Eldridge @ 654-4159.

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DIVINE MERCY GIFT SHOP! Generous donation of books:  $1 each.  Special purchase:  Spanish bibles, price reduced to $22; Sunday Missals:  $4 each.  First Communion, Confirmation, Graduation and Baptism crosses in stock.  First Communion sets (prayer book, rosary and case, scapular, pin and case):  limited quantity.  Personalized rosaries-choose color and names on beads.  Great mother and grandmother day gift. Gift items can be ordered from our catalog. We are open 30 minutes before and after each weekend Mass at St. Paul’s.

 

ALTAR SERVERS: Classes will be held for young people (5th grade or older) who would like to train as altar servers. Please call the coordinators for this ministry, Bruce Herczogh (St. Andrew’s) at 882-0199 or Maureen McLaughlin (St. Paul’s) at 985-0292 and let them know you are interested. This important ministry is one way our young men and women give service to our community and liturgy. The coordinators will arrange for the training session times and dates.

 

ELDERLY NEED ASSISTANCE?
If you are one of our “Elder Members” in our parish, or you know someone in need of transportation or other support, please call Maureen Lesley at 639-4811.

 

 FIRST FRIDAY

First Friday is May 2, 2008.  Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Andrew’s is from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.  Please also remember the rosary is said after the 5:00 p.m. Mass on Wednesdays. Exposition during the day, and benediction will still take place just prior.

Adoration at St. Francis will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Please sign up for an hour to pray with Our Lord. Sign up sheets for St. Francis are available at St. Paul’s and St. Francis.

 

Golden Corner Ministries - HOW YOU CAN HELP. In order to continue this service, we need to broaden our support from the community. Your help is greatly needed and appreciated. YOU CAN HELP BY: donating money to Golden Corner Ministries, P.O. Box 456, Seneca SC 29679, and by donating nonperishable foods - our major food needs are: boxed cereal, peanut butter - 18 oz., fruit 15 oz. any kind; soups 15 oz. any kind; canned tuna and chicken.
Food may be brought to our location at 11081 N. Radio Station Road in Seneca. Food pickups may be scheduled by calling Richard Kulper at 882-3610.

 

WOULD YOU LIKE A NEW FRIEND FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA COASTAL AREA? The Upstate parishes in the South Carolina diocese are being asked to volunteer to shelter families during hurricane evacuations. Of course we hope this will never be necessary, but if it were, it would be great if these folks knew they had a welcoming home to come to. We are updating our list from a few years ago, so if you are still interested in volunteering, or if this is your first opportunity to volunteer, please contact Mary Sue Plague via email at c-msplague@earthlink.net, or by phone at 944-6888. The information we need is your name, address, phone number, email address, how many people you can accommodate, is your home handicapped accessible, and would you be able to invite pets. Thank you for considering offering assistance to our fellow Christian families in their time of need.

 

HAVE YOU ........

Have you moved and not told us? Are you new in the parish and not registered? Are you moving out of the parish? If YOU qualify on any of these questions, PLEASE call the office and let us know your whereabouts!! You will save us time and postage.
Many thanks for your cooperation!!
P.S. New phone number?  New email address?  We'd like those, too!

 

A Special Note: Many volunteers work weekly to keep our churches ‘picked up’ and clean. They spend countless hours taking care of plants/flowers, straightening items in the pews and gathering spaces, and making sure that things are left neatly for the next Mass. PLEASE! Do your part to keep our churches clean! Gum wrappers, cigarette butts, half-eaten candy bars - these are just a few of the items found in the plants, on the floors, or on the furniture. We need to be aware that many people attend our churches, including many visitors, and our churches and facilities should be welcoming in their environment. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

ALSO .....

If you have set up a table or display in your church’s Gathering Space, PLEASE remember to take your tables down and put them back where you found them! Thank you!!

 

OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES

CONVERSATION ON POVERTY IN THE UPSTATE.  You are invited to a conversation with Rev. Beth Templeton, former Director of United Ministries in Greenville and currently Director of Our Eyes Were Opened, on Monday, April 28 in St. Andrew's church from 7-8:00 pm.  Sponsored by the JustFaith Group.

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A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY AHS ARRIVED IN SENECA.  For $60, we can sponsor an elderly person or couple, for a WHOLE YEAR of groceries!  This is only possible because Golden Corners Food Bank's connection with Golden Harvest.  Think of it:  25 pounds of food is given to this family every month for a year including staples and frozen meats, for a cost of ONLY $60!  Please consider participating in this one-of-a-kind program to help those in our community who are elderly and low income.  Brochures are available in the gathering space, or call Ruth Cushman at 654-1757, ext. 14.

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POST OFFICE FOOD DRIVE.  The annual U.S. Post Office food drive is May 10th.  Many volunteers are needed to unpack the thousands of pounds of canned goods that arrive, sort them into boxes and then stack them on shelves.  If you are willing to donate a Saturday afternoon for this great opportunity to help others, please come to the food bank on Radio Station Road (across from the doctors' complex), at 2:00 p.m.  We also need trucks to transport the canned goods from the post office to the food bank.  If you have a pickup and can make the time available on May 10th, please call Ann Smith at 647-2088 so we know how many vehicles are available from our church.

 

FAMILY CONNECTIONS

FAMILY CONNECTIONS PLAYGROUP
We are expanding this wonderful ministry initiated by Desiree Werth and Mandy McAtee to meet the needs of parents and preschoolers in our parish.  Along with playtime for 0-4 yr. olds, we would like to have a topic for each meeting relating to motherhood, children and spirituality, and any other topics that parents are interested in.   Our gatherings will be twice each month on Friday mornings.   We really welcome your voice in making this ministry a meaningful one for both parents and kids!   Bring your children for some playtime, meet some parish parents and share your ideas!  Please contact Joni Smith (653-4039) or Beckie Hylkema (888-8904) for more information and the date and time of the next meeting!

FAMILY CONNECTIONS PLAYGROUP. contact Joni Smith at 653-4039 or jbsmith27@bellsouth.net with your suggestions for dates and events.

 

Expecting a baby soon? Congratulations to all the families with new babies, and THANK YOU to all of the amazing people who have made and brought them meals. If you would like to participate in this wonderful ministry (either by receiving or making a meal,) please contact Desireee Werth at 646-5433.

 

Please note! Due to privacy laws, Oconee Memorial Hospital can no longer let us know when a Catholic is hospitalized. If you want to have someone visited in the hospital, you will have to call the office (654-1757) so we can let the priests and EM’s to the Sick know so they can arrange for a visit. Many thanks for your cooperation.

 

PARISH YOUTH CHOIRS……..

Children’s Choirs!!! will rehearse at regularly scheduled times on April 23rd and 30th; the “Saints” @ 4:00 PM and the Junior Choir @ 4:30 PM. They will sing at the 10:00 a.m. Mass next Sunday, May 4th. Call Paula @ 654-1757 ext. 15 for more information.
 

The Children's Choirs in our parish, “Little Saints” and the “Junior Choir” rehearse on Wednesdays, from September to May.  "Little Saints" rehearse 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., and "Junior Choir" 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.  “Little Saints” is for children ages 4, 5 and 6 and “Junior Choir” is for young people 2nd grade through the 8th grade. Old members, new members, ALL young people in the parish are joyfully invited to come together to praise God, have fun, and make beautiful music together. Parents, encourage your children to minister to each other and our parish by sharing their voices with us … let us make a joyful noise unto the Lord!!! Call Paula at 654-1757, ext. 15 with any questions.

 

DO YOU HAVE A CHILD, BROTHER, SISTER OR OTHER RELATIVE SERVING IN THE MILITARY? IF SO, PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE IN CLEMSON AND GIVE US THEIR NAMES - WE WOULD LIKE TO LIST THEM IN THE BULLETIN AND ASK FOR PRAYERS FOR THEIR SAFETY.
CALL JO ANN FIFE AT 654-1757 ext. 10 if you have a name you would like listed or if there is a name that should be removed.

IN THE MILITARY: 1st. Lt. Mike Carr, in Afghanistan; 1st. Lt. Hilary Jensen, Corp. Ian Karnes, Theodore Goslin, Charlie Park, Capt. Tanner Spry, Benjamin Wood, Spc. Tyler Brooks, Robert A. Lupinski, Capt. Stephen K. Noel, and LCDR Chad Piacenti in Iraq; Spencer Ivie in the Persian Gulf; Lt. Col. Timothy Hogan, Amando Fellin, William T. Rigotti, Brian Gille, Jason and Kevin Capazzi, Matt Ring, Edward Egan, Paul Thibodeaux, Kelly Beavers, Keith Charland, Hugo Sanchez, Deitrich Thurston, Matthew Baker, Joshua M. Perry, Matthew and Patrick Mills, S/Sgt. Michael Jason Auleta, Capt. Jason Randall Wendt, Ryan Borem, Greg Toggweiler, Captain Stanley Thurston, Paul Daigle, Jeff Romig, Scott McCreary and Captain Daryl Klenda, Major David Bennett, Tressa Kaehler, Kevin Borem, 1st Lt. Erin Johnson Thomas, 1st Lt. Bo Thomas, Gary Brown, Jim Schneider, Cory Breech, and Shawn Nichols.

 

JUST A REMINDER: parishioners or parish groups who wish to use a church or one of the halls (Brimley, Papineau, Tierney) for a special event, occasion, meeting, etc., need to call the Parish office in Clemson (654-1757) AT LEAST 8 WEEKS IN ADVANCE and reserve the space on the main calendar. All events must be entered on the main calendar to enable people, organizations, etc., to know what is available and taking place in the parish.  If the date and/or time of your event changes after it goes on the calendar, please call the church office about that, too.  IF YOUR EVENT IS A RECURRING ONE (e.g., EVERY MONTH), YOU MUST STILL CALL THE OFFICE AND MAKE SURE IT IS ON THE CALENDAR!

 

OUR DAILY REST HOMELESS SHELTER Spring Gala April 26, 2008 at the Ramada Inn, Clemson. Dance to the music of The Flashbacks. Hor d’oeuvres and beer and wine bar included. Time: 6:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Cost: $150 (couple), $75 (single). Contact: Dan Wroblewski at 882-1301.

 

SAFE HARBOR II
 

Many thanks to all who have inquired about making donations of shelter supplies, clothing and household goods to Safe Harbor II. Clemson Community Care has generously agreed to serve as a drop-off location for your donations during their regular operating hours, Monday - Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
These are items particularly needed: paper towels, toilet tissue, facial tissue, feminine hygiene products, diapers, used clothing in good condition for women and children, new undergarments for women and children, household and kitchen items, linens and small appliances.

As you would expect, cash donations are always acceptable. Mark your check payable to Safe Harbor, Inc. (note “Safe Harbor II” in the memo line) and mail it to Safe Harbor, Inc. PO Box 174, Greenville, SC 29602.

Bi-Lo shoppers can have donations to Safe Harbor made, based on the amount of purchase and using a Bonus Card, at no cost to you. We have enrollment forms available in the office and in the foyer. It is a bar code - with instructions on signing up and is a painless way to help a very worthy cause.

Safe Harbor needs volunteers. The most pressing needs are babysitters to stay with children in the early evening while mothers are in counseling or self-improvement classes and women who could talk to them about Life Skills – basics such as how to keep house, cleaning, organizing work, basics of cooking and planning meals and how to handle money - budgeting, how to open a checking and savings accounts, etc.  To be a volunteer you have to fill out an application and take a training course. Call Carol Wiley at 653-4549 or cnnwiley@hotmail.com.

    

Volunteer Opportunities at Safe Harbor II, a shelter for victims of domestic violence, include the following: Crisis Line Advocate, Children’s Advocate, Clerical Support Advocate, Emergency Room Advocate, Legal / Transportation Advocate, and Speakers’ Bureau / Community Outreach Advocate. These opportunities are varied – with volunteers needed weekdays, weeknights, and weekends. To work alone volunteers must be 17 years old. Those under 17 must be supervised by an authorized adult volunteer. Volunteers are screened and must complete Safe Harbor Basic Volunteer Training. For more information, contact Sheila at 654-8152 or hogan_family@bellsouth.net.

 

HOME BOUND MISSIONS - Home Bound Missions (HBM) is an all volunteer organization whose mission is to feed the home bound elderly and disabled, as well as those who are facing hardship in Pickens/Oconee Counties. We serve those who may otherwise go hungry without our weekend meal delivery. HBM prepares and delivers more than 180 hot meals every Saturday.  If you can share 1 or 2 hours of your time, only once a month to help with this important service, please contact us: Lucius Uldrick, Dir. 885-1824 or Colleen Tate, Co-Director 882-2305. HBM is a non-profit charity funded by donations from local businesses, churches and individuals. Donations may be sent to: Home Bound Missions, PO Box 1365, Seneca, SC, 29676. We operate from the Our Daily Bread facility in downtown Seneca.

 

Need helpers? If you need reliable, hard workers for yard or housework, call Sr. Joan at 638-2984. She has a list of dependable helpers, ready and willing.  PLEASE LEAVE A MESSAGE ON HER VOICE MAIL IF SHE IS NOT AVAILABLE!  You can also call Pablo Galindo at 882-6882 if you need help with yard work.

 

COLUMBARIUM

 Columbarium Benches
Two small park benches have been installed in the Parish Columbarium at St. Paul’s, one at each end of Wall #1. These benches are for the use of family and friends when they visit the Columbarium.
The benches will help determine the size, style, location, appearance etc. for more permanent benches. Although sturdy, they will eventually be replaced with a more substantial model, based on what is learned from these.
Please respect the people interred in the Columbarium, and do not use the benches except for visitation purposes.

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COLUMBARIUM REMEMBRANCE ARCHIVE
One of the unique features of our Parish Columbarium is the Remembrance Archive - a computer dedicated to preserving and viewing information about the people interred in the Columbarium or commemorated on a Memorial.
Any information regarding the person(s) can be placed in the files - photographs, genealogy, biography, etc. Putting information in is simple - just bring photos or documents to the office, where they will be scanned and all originals returned. Long after the original paper copies are deteriorated or lost, they will be available for viewing by current and future generations.
Parishioners who have licensed a niche for the future may submit any information at any time. The information need not be “complete” - more can be added at any time in the future. The files will not be available for general viewing until after a person is deceased. For more information or ideas on contents, contact Jo Ann Fife 654-1757, ext. 10.

 

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY-RESTAURANT NIGHT-PANCHO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT. Every Monday night through May 19, 2008, when dining at Pancho’s Restaurant in downtown Central, please tell the cashier you would like a percentage of your bill to go to the American Cancer Society. Everyone dining may participate, but you must tell the cashier. Maria and Pancho want to thank everyone who participates because money donated will go to help the “SAINTS A WALKING” relay for Life Team from St. Andrews-We Walk for the Cure.”

 

In addition to our regular weekly schedules for Mass, Reconciliation, Religious Education/Formation, Campus Ministry, and Rosary Group, here’s what else is happening in our community the week of

APRIL 20 - APRIL 27, 2008
 
Sunday After Masses Relay For Life Luminaries on sale St. Andrew's
11:00 a.m. Spring Home Tour benefiting CCDC Clemson
3:00 p.m. Festival of Music Benefit Concert benefiting CCC Brooks Center, CU
5:30 p.m. High School Youth Night St. Andrew's
Monday 7:00 p.m. City of Seneca Community Meeting St. Paul's
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. Morning Prayer St. Paul's
10:15 a.m. US Adult Catechism Class St. Paul's
6:15 p.m. Students Dinner St. Andrew's
Wednesday 4:00 p.m. Little Saints Choir St. Andrew's
4:30 p.m. Junior Choir St. Andrew's
5:30 p.m. St. Paul's Adult Choir St. Paul's
5:30 p.m. Generations of Faith St. Paul's
7:00 p.m. Small Christian Community St. Paul's
7:30 p.m. St. Andrew's Adult Choir St. Andrew's
Thursday 9:00 a.m. Spanish Class St. Paul's
10:00 a.m. Morning Prayer St. Paul's
2:00 p.m. Bible Study St. Francis
7:00 p.m. Social Justice Meeting St. Paul's
Friday 5:30 p.m. K of C Fish Fry K of C Council Hall
Saturday 6:30 p.m. Our Daily Rest Homeless Shelter Spring Gala Ramada Inn, Clemson
Sunday All Masses Catholic Home Mission annual appeal All churches
1:00 p.m. Girl Scouts Fashion Show St. Paul's
5:30 p.m. High School Youth Night St. Andrew's

APRIL 27 - MAY 4, 2008
 
Sunday All Masses Catholic Home Mission annual appeal All churches
1:00 p.m. Girl Scouts Fashion Show St. Paul's
5:30 p.m. High School Youth Night St. Andrew's
Monday 9:00 a.m. Quilters St. Francis
7:00 p.m. City of Seneca Community Meeting St. Paul's
7:00 p.m. Conversation on Poverty in the Upstate (JustFaith) St. Andrew's
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. Morning Prayer St. Paul's
10:15 a.m. US Adult Catechism Class St. Paul's
6:15 p.m. Students Dinner St. Andrew's
7:00 p.m. New Lector Workshop St. Paul's
Wednesday 4:00 p.m. Little Saints Choir St. Andrew's
4:30 p.m. Junior Choir St. Andrew's
5:30 p.m. St. Paul's Adult Choir St. Paul's
7:30 p.m. St. Andrew's Adult Choir St. Andrew's
Thursday 9:00 a.m. Spanish Class St. Paul's
10:00 a.m. Morning Prayer St. Paul's
2:00 p.m. Bible Study St. Francis
3:00 p.m. Pictures taken for new directory St. Andrew's
6:30 p.m. First Communion practice St. Paul's
Friday 9:00 a.m. First Friday Adoration St. Andrew's
10:00 a.m. First Friday Adoration St. Francis
3:00 p.m. Pictures taken for new directory St. Paul's
7:00 p.m. Relay For Life Pendleton High track
Saturday 10:00 a.m. First Communion St. Paul's
Sunday 3:00 p.m. Foothills Chorale "Music From the Heart" concert Brooks Center, CU
5:30 p.m. High School Youth Night St. Andrew's

For More News ~ Click Below

Knights of Columbus News 

Youth Ministry News

Religious Education News

Adult Formation News

RCIA News

Hispanic News

Group Meeting Schedules and Information

St. Andrew's News     

St. Francis' News    

St. Paul's News

Campus Ministry News

Small Christian Communities

   Parish Council News

Readings for the Week  

 

ANOINTING OF THE SICK

Please join us at regular intervals during the year for a public Anointing of the Sick. Anyone who sees a hospital visit as a likely possibility in their near future is welcome to call one of the priests to make arrangements for a home visit. We have a wonderful team of lay men and women who also bring Holy Communion to the homebound regularly. If you or a family member would like a visit and Communion, please contact either one of the priests through the Parish Office in Clemson (654-1757) or Kathleen Kamp (886-0705).

 

Small Christian Communities

 There are a number of Small Christian Communities throughout our three-church community. These groups meet at a variety of locations and times throughout the week to study and discuss the Sunday scriptures, support one another and share prayer. If you would like to join a Small Christian Community, please call Jane Myers at 654-1757.

                                               

Other News

2-1-1 DEBUTS IN PICKENS COUNTY! Most people know that 9-1-1 is the phone number to call for police, fire or medical emergencies, but do you know about 2-1-1? 2-1-1 is ... an easy-to-remember phone number that connects people with important community services and volunteer opportunities ... a free, confidential, information and referral service for health and human services in your community ... available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, with multi-lingual capabilities ... can be accessed online at www.sc211.org. 2-1-1 is sponsored by the United Way of Pickens County.

Catholic Charities will have FREE CITIZENSHIP CLASSES every Thursday for those planning to take the USCIS test for naturalization. Classes start Feb. 21, 2008 from 10:30-11:30 AM in the Gallivan Center for Catholic Social Ministry at 204-A Douthit Street, Greenville, SC 29601. For more info or to sign up, call Mendi Drayton at 864-242-2233 x204.

CLASES DE CIUDADANIA. Caridades Católicas estará ofreciendo clases GRATIS para todos aquellos que necesiten tomar el examen de ciudadanía con el Servicio de Inmigración. Las clases comienzan el 21 de Febrero, 2008, de 10:30 a 11:30 AM, y serán en las oficinas de Caridades Católicas en el 204-A Douthit Street, Greenville, SC 29601. Para preguntas o registrarse, favor llamar a la abogada de Inmigración Mendi Drayton al 864-242 2233 extensión 204. De acuerdo con el interés, abriremos más clases en otros horarios.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUP FOR MEN IN ANDERSON, OCONEE & PICKENS COUNTIES. The Alzheimer’s Association is looking into the possibility of forming a Men’s support program in Anderson that would be open to anyone interested in attending. The meetings may begin with gathering every other month at Boulevard Baptist in Anderson at lunch time for an hour (with a meal provided.) Sitters-through a home care agency-can be paid for. We would like to invite men who currently have a spouse or other female relative at home or in facility care, and also men who have lost a loved one who could assist by sharing their care experiences. The meeting date will be determined. For more information, call Gail Marion at 864-224-3045 or 1-800-273-2555.

HUNGRY FOR GOD? BE TOUCHED. A Life in the Spirit Seminar is being offered at Ascension Episcopal Church in Seneca by Mary Moosbrugger and Kathleen Kojis on the five Tuesdays of April: April 1-29, 2008. There will be a potluck dinner at 5:30 PM each Tuesday evening, followed by praise and worship music and teachings about “Baptism in the Spirit,” mentioned throughout Acts of the Apostles. The knowledge is cumulative, so we ask that you commit to coming for the entire 5 sessions. Fliers are available in the gathering space. To register, call Kathleen Kojis at 944-6141 or Mary Moosbrugger at 944-8965 or mcmoos@charter.net.

RETIRED TEACHER VOLUNTEER TO FACILITATE A CITIZENSHIP CLASS, for Catholic Charities, one night a week, at the Gallivan Center. CC will provide the class materials. The teacher is welcome to add desired materials to the curriculum. Background or interest in history and government helpful but not required. Please contact Mary Ann Turner at 242-2233, ext. 210.

PHYSICIANS, RETIRED OR ACTIVE, desperately needed to volunteer two to four hours a month at Rosa Clark Free Medical Clinic, Seneca, SC. Insurance provided. We have many people who need to be seen as soon as possible. In addition, we are in need of specialty physicians willing to see one referral patient a month. If you feel that you can help, please contact Vicki Thompson, Administrative Director, at 882-4629.

VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS NEEDED. The Tribble Center Gift & Thrift Store at 135 Bountyland Road in Seneca is requesting volunteers and donations of any kind. This non-profit service organization helps support the human services provided to people with developmental disabilities and special needs in Oconee County. Call Ellen Stumpf at 886-4245 (store) or 903-2890 for more information.

OMH HOSPICE OF THE FOOTHILLS COUNSELING SERIES. OMH-Hospice of the Foothills is offering a series of counseling sessions that includes general bereavement support groups, a bereaved parents support group, an early infant and pregnancy loss support group, children and adolescent support groups and camp, a caregivers support group and a holiday educational series for the bereaved. Call the Hospice office at 882-8940 for more information or to register.

GOLDEN CORNER FOOD BANK. With the CAT buses, many people with no access to transportation can now get to the food bank. And plant closings mean more clients. This means more food is needed. Thank you for your generous donations and keep it up. But besides food, cash is a most wonderful idea to help pay the bills, and to buy food goods not donated. It would be so helpful if a few (or lots) of parishioners decided to send the Food Bank a donation monthly. If Clemson Community Care is the prom queen, the Food Bank went with her brother. Let’s help her out. Checks may be sent to the office in Clemson or directly to the Food Bank at: Golden Corner Ministries, PO Box 456, Seneca, SC 29679. You might also call them at 882-3610 for volunteer opportunities.

Our Daily Rest Homeless Shelter is now in the process of working with a builder to design a facility capable of housing five women with children in one section and up to twenty men in another separate section. We have received letters of support from the mayor of Seneca as well as others and social agency leaders. Our strongest base of support continues to be eight churches that have participated from the beginning of this project.  In addition, we have received substantial grants from Wal-Mart and two private families. Finally, we are working with the Upstate Homeless Coalition and have received their support for a large grant pending our registration with the S.C. Housing Authority. We hope to break ground late in 2007.

Birthright of Clemson is a non-denominational Crisis Pregnancy Center, which has recently become independent from Birthright of Greenville. We are always in need of volunteers to serve at the office or in support of activities such as newsletter preparation, fundraisers or tasks that can be done at home. Birthright also needs a few people to serve on the Board of Directors. The Board meets 9 months a year at this time. We are available to speak to any organization interested in our mission to protect the Sanctity of Life.. Please call our office 654-3377 or Joan Ortiz at 944-9318 to make arrangements for a speaker. Our office hours are Monday, and Wednesday 3-6PM and Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. At this time we also need someone to clean our office once a week as this volunteer can no longer come in. Thank you for your continuing support of our ministry.

BIRTHRIGHT OF CLEMSON NEEDS VOLUNTEERS! Birthright of Clemson is in need of office volunteers. If you can give 3 hours a week to this mission of helping women in crisis please call Joan Ortiz 944-9318 at home or 654-3377 at the office. Thanks. Blessings, Joan Ortiz, Director of Birthright of Clemson.

Are you interested in the Priesthood? Have you wondered for a long time whether you have a calling to the priesthood, but had many questions and no obvious way to get them answered. Or so you thought until Vision Guide, Inc. released their newest “Catholic Vocation Guide, 2007”, subtitled “Get a Line on Your Life’s Calling.” To obtain a copy, write Vocation Guide, St. Bernard Abbey, 1600 St. Bernard Drive, Cullman, Al 35055 or visit their website:
Http://home.catholicweb.com/visionguide  or use email:
stbernardmonastery@yahoo.com to obtain your copy.

Is God Calling You to Teach Chastity?
Have you ever wondered to learn how to explain the virtue of chastity? Do you want to better understand Pope John Paul II’s theology of the body, child development, gender differences, the primary role of the family in chastity education, fertility appreciation and lots more? Then you may want to consider joining a group of local adults who are in the process of forming a S.C. Upstate team of Family Honor, Inc., a Catholic nonprofit organization, offering a computer based college-credit course. Website www.familyhonor.org or call Ann Nerbun at 803-929-0858.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP OLDER ADULTS
“Helping Rural Elders in Health Care” is a community outreach project through Oconee Memorial Hospital, Clemson University and the Parish Nursing Program with the goal of recruiting and training volunteers to serve as “health coaches” for older adults in Oconee County. Health coaches will visit 1 or 2 older adults in their homes, starting with 2 visits and 3 phone calls per week for a month, and then over the next 2 months, tapering the visits to the point that there are no visits, but several phone calls each week, then tapering the calls to allow patients to be self-sufficient in their care. Health coaches will make their first visit with a home health nurse and the second with a nurse practitioner. For more information about becoming a Health Coach, please call Deborah Willoughby at 882-1904 or email her at Willoud@Clemson.edu. There are flyers on the bulletin boards at all three churches.

The Clemson Free Clinic will be open Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 and will serve clients from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
If you would like to volunteer in any capacity, from clerical support and legal services to medical transcription to social work and many in between, please call the office and we will send you a form to complete, or call 654-8277 for more information.
There are also bright pink brochures available at all three churches, describing the services the clinic will offer.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Support Group meets the 4th Wednesday of the month at the United Way Center (Front Room), 409 E. N. First St. in Seneca. Call Kathleen Grant at 882-8891 with questions.

Free Health Care Information from Medicare.
Do you need help choosing a nursing home? Do you have questions about home health care? Medicare has placed two helpful tools on its web site (www.medicare.gov):  Home Health Compare, and Nursing Home Compare.
No computer? Call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227. A customer service rep will mail the information to you free of charge.

GOT A MINUTE? How about a week?
The Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent dePaul extend a cordial invitation to single Catholic women between the ages of 19-55 to partner with them for one or more weeks in aiding persons who are poor and in need. This volunteer program with the Sisters integrates the experience of ministry to persons in need, personal and communal prayer, Vincentian reflection, and the experience of community life.
For more information contact Sr. Elizabeth Greim, D.C.
Vocation Office, c/o Seton Keogh High School,
1201 S. Caton Ave Baltimore MD 21227 or dcvoc@atlantech.net

CAROLINA CATHOLIC INTERNET RADIO  -  www.carolinacatholic.org (do not use search engines). This is a special edition of the program and features some of the most frequently asked questions. Fr. Lawrence answers questions from listeners about how to deal with anger and hate, inter-communion, the significance of incense in Catholic worship, how to explain to non-Catholics what we really believe as opposed to what they think we believe, suffering and how to deal with it, how to deal with chronic illness and how to deal with the suicide death of a friend or family member. (**Carolina Catholic is made possible by the generosity of listeners. Your support is needed to continue the production of programs. Donations should be mailed to Carolina Catholic, c/o Daughters of St. Paul, 243 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401.) Everyone is invited to call in with their questions, Catholic and non-Catholic. The number to dial is (843) 763-4277).

CATHOLIC RADIO IN SOUTH CAROLINA
1300 AM in the Upstate. Tune in and hear the Mass daily at 8 a.m. and good Catholic programming throughout the day. Treat yourself to an excellent family focused program, Faith and Family, every Thursday at 2:00 p.m., hosted by Steve Wood. His weekly program is broadcast live from the Family Live Center in Greenville. Visit www.familylivecenter.com for more information on this program. Also, visit www.catholicradiosc.com to view a complete broadcast schedule and hear again announcements about parish and Knights of Columbus events in both the Upstate and Low Country.

PROJECT RACHEL SUPPORT GROUP understands the emotional, physical and spiritual effects of abortion. Let us be an instrument which enables you to experience the mercy of Christ. To find out more about our healing journey, please call Barbara at 864-297-5752. Confidential!!!

Clemson Meals on Wheels - provides meals for Clemson residents who are isolated and incapacitated. 7,351 hot meals were delivered last year, and recipients are screened. Donations may be sent to Meals on Wheels, P.O. Box 1415, Clemson SC, 29633-1415. $21.25 feeds one person for a week, $93.50 for a month, $221 feeds a person one day a week for 1 year and $1,122.00 feeds a person for one year.

Donations are tax deductible.

FREE ministry to traveling Catholics: for nationwide Mass times and locations call 1-800-Mass Times or Internet: www.Masstimes.org.
Funded in the US by Pauline Books and Media, in partnership with the Catholic Communications Campaign of the US Catholic Conference in Washington, D.C.

Catholic Charities offers free counseling services for crisis pregnancies, abortion alternatives, post-abortion counseling and adoption services. Call 864-242-2233 for more information.

DRIVEN TO WORK – is a new charitable organization providing automobiles to women who are working to become self-reliant after divorce, an abusive relationship or other difficult circumstances. Driven to Work repairs donated cars and gives them to women referred by United Way agencies and other Oconee County social agencies.

They are looking for donated automobiles (tax deductible), and monetary donations. You may call references Sandra Pruitt, Director of Family Friends Program 882-3130, David McCutcheon, Chief Office Oconee United Way, 882-9743 or Michael Smith, Executive Director of Oconee Crisis Center at 882-7146. Barbara Laughter of Salem is the Director, 944-0121.

CLEMSON DOWNS VOLUNTEERS - Virtually every church and neighborhood in the greater Clemson area is represented by people in the Health Care Center of Assisted Living at Clemson Downs. More volunteers are critically needed. If you can help for a few hours a month, please call Carolyn Fulmer 654-2446.

As a part of our bereavement support services and programs, OMH Hospice of the Foothills offers “Savannah’s Friends”, a pregnancy and infant loss support group, which meets the first Tuesday of each month, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Hospice office at 390 Keowee School Road in Seneca.
For more information, call OMH Hospice at 882-8940.

Big Brother/Big Sister - Interested in volunteering? Call Velva Warnick at 886-8090.

GUARDIAN AD LITEM program is looking for volunteers. Volunteers watch over abused and neglected children, making sure child protection agencies and the courts properly perform their duties to the children. For information on training in Pickens or Oconee Counties, call 1-800-277-0113. Web site address is
www.govoepp.state.sc.us/children/guardian/htm.

 

Marriage Encounter

For information call Bob and Mary Reimer (864) 292-2060 or to register call Steve and Nydia Burkick (803) 798-8296.

Give a gift that your spouse will always remember - a Marriage Encounter Weekend. It’s unique and you don’t have to worry about exchanging it. For information call Bob and Mary Reimer (864) 292-2060; to register call Steve and Nydia Burdick, (803)798-8296.
 Web site: http://home.sc.rr.com/galyemitchm/scme.

Web site: http://www.mindspring.com/~rreimer.

                                  

Many of the articles in our news and events pages have been excerpted from the weekly parish bulletin and from the monthly Saints Alive newsletter. We thank all those who work so diligently to produce these publications.


If you have stories or pictures of news and events in the Parish that you would like in the website, please submit them by e-mail to: par3com@hotmail.com 

 

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This page updated on 04/23/2008