Sunday Mass Times 4:00 p.m. Saint Alexis (Saturday Anticipated Mass) 7:30 a.m. Saint Alphonsus 9:30 a.m. Saint Alphonsus 10:00 a.m. Saint Alexis 11:30 a.m. Saint Alphonsus 5:00 p.m. Saint Alexis

Weekday Mass Schedule

8:00 a.m. Saint Alexis (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday) 9:00 a.m. Saint Alphonsus (Wednesday) 12:00 p.m. Saint Alphonsus (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

February 9, 2020

The Catholic Community of Wexford

Saint Alphonsus & Saint Alexis

Fifth Sunday

In Ordinary Time

FROM FATHER ZYWAN

Welcome Father Will!

Listen to the Voice of the Lord It is a great joy to be here at Saint Alphonsus and Saint Alexis. I am Father William Wuenschel (Father Will). I was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Pittsburgh on June 27, 2015. I grew up in a strong Catholic family at Saint Joseph’s in Mount Oliver as the 8th of 9 children. I attended Saint Joseph and Bishop Leonard grade schools, Carrick High School, and graduated from Duquesne University with a business degree in Investment Management. Unfortunately, after college I drifted away from the practice of my faith, just going through the motions. In the midst of “finding myself,” by the grace of God, I had several encounters that I knew were the working of God in my life. After these encounters with the Lord, I returned to the sacrament of Confession after a period of ten years. After this experience, I recognized the mercy and grace of God working in my life. Then, with a clear conscience and deep sense of God’s mercy, I was able to hear Him speaking to my heart, and calling me to be a priest. I discerned this call on my own for over a year, but then it began to manifest itself. Some women of my parish, that I consider pillars of the church, began to ask me if I was considering becoming a priest. After a time, I became open to the grace to accept God’s call, enter into seminary, and formally discern the priesthood. I entered Saint Paul’s Seminary in the fall of 2009, at 29 years of age. For the next six years, I discerned the priesthood while receiving human, intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral formation in preparation for priesthood. I previously served as the Parochial Vicar at Saint Benedict the Abbot Parish in Peters Township, Washington County. I was then named the Administrator of Saint Fidelis Parish in Butler for about a year and a half. Most recently I served the Butler Area Catholic Parishes as Parish Chaplain, along with Father Kevin Fazio and Father John Baver, who both served previously at Saint Alphonsus parish. I was named Senior Parochial Vicar of Saint Alphonsus and Saint Alexis. The designation “Senior” is given to those priests who have previously served as a Pastor or Administrator of a parish. I invite you to view my first homily as a priest, which gives a more detailed account of my vocation story on our parish website or search Father William Wuenschel on YouTube. It is a great joy to be with all of you at Saint Alphonsus and Saint Alexis. I ask that you pray for me that I seek God’s will and become a good and holy priest. May God bless you, your families, friends, and all of your loved ones. Grace and Peace,

Fr. Will

World Day of the Sick

Tuesday, February 11 marks World Day of the Sick, which was instituted by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1992 and first celebrated in 1993. He stated, “I turn to all of you who are burdened by illness and are united in various ways to the flesh of the suffering Christ, as well as to you, professionals and volunteers in the field of health care.” With God, nothing is ever wasted, not even our sufferings. Suffering unites people more closely with Jesus and Jesus with them. With the whole Church, pray daily for those in need of healing in body, mind, and spirit. Pray too, for family members, friends, volunteers and professionals who care for the sick. It is more than a service, it is an actual participation in the caring and healing ministry of Jesus. Our good works are an extension of the Lord’s real presence in our midst. Thank you and blessing.

CELEBRATE MARRIAGE

Today, the Church celebrates World Marriage Sunday. World Marriage Day honors husbands and wives as the foundation of the family and the basic unit of society. It salutes the beauty of their faithfulness, sacrifice, and joy in daily married life. The idea of celebrating those

already married began in Baton Rouge, LA, in 1981, when couples encouraged the mayor, the governor, and the bishop to proclaim Saint Valentine’s Day as “We Believe in Marriage Day.” The event was so successful, the idea was presented to and adopted by Worldwide Marriage Encounter’s National Leadership. By 1982, 43 governors officially proclaimed the day and celebrations spread to U.S. military bases in several foreign countries. The name was changed to “World Marriage Day,” designated to be celebrated each year on the second Sunday in February. In 1993, Pope Saint John Paul II imparted his Apostolic blessing on World Marriage Day. Thanks to the many, many couples who recommit themselves each day to living the holy covenant marriage. This institution, made holy by the Lord, is unfortunately under attack and largely misunderstood by many in our culture today. They fail to place Christ and the wisdom and teachings of the Church central in their lives. Jesus is always the standard and pattern of our lives, no matter what our vocation. Pray for all married couples that they remain committed to making a difference for Christ. Pray too for married couples who are struggling in their relationship. May they come to experience the loving, healing, and comforting presence of Jesus, who is for all of us, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Congratulations and God’s blessings!

In Jesus’ love,

Fr. Zywan

To is to learn to follow Christ with others.

LOVE

WE PRAY FOR THE SICK

We entrust to the care of Christ the Divine Physician, those members of our parish families of Saint Alphonsus and Saint Alexis Parishes who are in need of healing in body, mind or spirit, especially:

Dick Anderson Brian Bart Rich Bogovich Jeannie Bukaukus Joseph Borza Marilyn Bucci Lyndell Ewell Elmer Gerst Marge Gerst Patrica Gross Stanley Hofstetter

Eugene Mancino Loretta Marchese Michelle Mehok Ron Mehok Gay Mullen John Mullen G. James Neelan George “Murph” Neelan Bill Redmack Larry Sampietro

Janice Spowal Morrie Stack M. A. Taiclet Amber VanVickle Bill Vita Marge Vita Marci Williams David Zappa Prayer Shawl Recipients

If you know of a parishioner or have a loved one who is ill, please contact the Parish Center and let us know. We will place that person’s name on the prayer list for four weeks. Intentions may return to the list upon monthly requests. Contact the Parish Center at 724.935.4343 or 724.935.1151 to add a loved one onto the list.

SCRIPTURE READINGS

TODAY’S READINGS First Reading — If you share your food with the hungry, provide housing for the homeless, then light shall break forth upon you (Isaiah 58:7-10). Psalm — The just man is a light in the darkness to the upright (Psalm 112). Second Reading — My message to you, says Paul, was the proclamation of Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). Gospel — You are the salt of the earth, the light of the world. In your good deeds your light shines before others, leading them to glorify God (Matthew 5:13-16). The English translation of the Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

READINGS FOR THE WEEK Monday: 1 Kgs 8:1-7, 9-13; Ps 132:6-7, 8-10; Mk 6:53-56 Tuesday: 1 Kgs 8:22-23, 27-30; Ps 84:3-5, 10-11; Mk 7:1-13 Wednesday: 1 Kgs 10:1-10; Ps 37:5-6, 30-31, 39-40; Mk 7:14-23 Thursday: 1 Kgs 11:4-13; Ps 106:3-4, 35-37, 40; Mk 7:24-30 Friday: 1 Kgs 11:29-32; 12:19; Ps 81:10-11ab, 12-15; Mk 7:31-37 Saturday: 1 Kgs 12:26-32; 13:33-34; Ps 106:6-7ab, 19-22; Mk 8:1-10 Sunday: Sir 15:15-20; Ps 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34; 1 Cor 2:6-10; Mt 5:17-37 [20-22a, 27-28, 33-34a, 37]

MAY THEY REST IN PEACE

The Catholic Community of Wexford wishes to extend sympathy to those who mourn the loss of a loved one, especially the souls who recently passed through death: Raymond Obringer (89). May the choirs of angels welcome them and where Lazarus is poor no longer, may they find eternal rest.

GOLD CLUB VALENTINE'S DAY GATHERING

The Gold Club will meet Friday, February 14 (Saint Valentine's Day) for the Saint Alphonsus 12:00 p.m. Mass and then lunch at Walnut Grill.

All are welcome!

PARISH CENTER CLOSED

The Parish Center will be closed Monday, February 17 in honor of Presidents Day. We will reopen Tuesday, February 18 at 8:00 a.m.

Tender and merciful God, you watch over your creatures with unfailing care, keep us in the safe

embrace of your love. With your strong right hand, make whole all who

are suffering. Give them the strength of your power and the stillness of your

peace. Minister to them through the compassionate service of others

and heal their every affliction. Fill those who serve the sick with

new hope and joy for the good they do in your name.

Amen.

A MESSAGE FROM POPE FRANCIS

“What is needed is a personalized approach to the sick, not just of curing, but also of caring, in view of an integral human healing. In experiencing illness, individuals not only feel threatened in their physical integrity, but also in the relational, intellectual, affective and spiritual dimensions of their lives. For this reason, in addition to therapy and support, they expect care and attention. In a word, love.”

POPE FRANCIS 28th World Day of the Sick Message, 2020

Saint Alphonsus Information Mass Intentions

OUR ADVERTISERS

Thanks to our bulletin advertisers for supporting our parish this week:

Saint Alphonsus - Shenot Farm Market Saint Alexis - Vincentian Home

B

Please offer your patronage to our sponsors or be sure to thank them when you have the opportunity to do so. It is through their support that our weekly bulletin is made possible!

This Week at Saint Alphonsus

Parish Share Assessment: $ 99,942 - Collected: $ 202,857

Sunday, February 9

7:30 a.m.

9:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m.

Living and Deceased Members of St. Alphonsus and St. Alexis Parishes † Debbie Errington by Emilie and Stephen Baker † Paul Turnley by Joe and Carolyn Augustine

Monday, February 10

12:00 p.m. † Jim Winkler by Linda Skender

Tuesday, February 11 - No Masses

Wednesday, February 12

9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

† Debbie Errington by The Cerny Family † Roy J. Pfister by The Family

Thursday, February 13 - No Masses

Friday, February 14

12:00 p.m. Blessed Seelos Academy Students and Faculty by the Gold Club

Saturday, February 15 - No Masses

Sunday, February 16

7:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

† Debbie Errington by Steve and Angi Noel † Karen A. Barton by Brian and Mary Gibson † Dr. G. Robert Senita and Olive Pegher Senita by The Senita Children

Income: January 27 through February 2, 2020

Regular Electronic Total

Offertory $ 11,431 $ 3,704 $ 15,135

Parish Share $ 1,155 $ 76 $ 1,231

School $ $ 475 $ 475

Major Maintenance $ 811 $ 90 $ 901

St. Anthony $ $ 60 $ 60

Future Diocesan Collection $ $ 140 $ 140

Holy Days $ $ 220 $ 220

Votives $ 154 $ $ 154

TOTAL $ 13,551 $ 4,765 $ 18,316

Upcoming 2nd Collections: February 16 - School February 23 - Parish Share Campaign

Sunday, February 9 7:30 a.m. Mass

9:30 a.m. Mass with Children’s Liturgy of the Word 10:30 a.m. Children’s Choir practice

11:30 a.m. Mass

Monday, February 10 12:00 p.m. Mass

6:00 p.m. Men’s Fellowship meeting

Tuesday, February 11 6:30 p.m. Passion Play practice in church

Wednesday, February 12 9:00 a.m. School Mass

12:00 p.m. Mass 12:30 p.m. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

3:00 p.m. Divine Mercy Devotion 7:00 p.m. Reconciliation

7:00 p.m. Adult Choir Practice in rectory basement

Thursday, February 13 6:30 p.m. Passion Play practice in church

Friday, February 14 8:00 a.m. Sanctuary Committee in church

12:00 p.m. Mass with Gold Club 12:30 p.m. Gold Club meets for lunch at Walnut Grill

Saturday, February 15

Sunday, February 16 Little Sisters of the Poor Collection after all Masses

7:30 a.m. Mass 9:30 a.m. Mass with Children’s Liturgy of the Word

10:30 a.m. Children’s Choir practice 11:30 a.m. Mass

MASS INTENTIONS

Saint Alexis Information

Saturday, February 8 - St. Jerome Emiliani, St. Josephine Bakhita, Virgin

4:00 p.m. † Pete Carcaise - The Lohmann Family

Sunday, February 9 - The Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

10:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m.

† Ellen Huth - Bob and Pat Maloney Amber VanVickle - Anonymous

Monday, February 10 - St. Scholastica, Virgin

8:00 a.m. † Joe Bullick

Tuesday, February 11 - Our Lady of Lourdes

8:00 a.m. † Michael Karas - David and Laurie Oates

Wednesday, February 12 - Weekday

No Mass

Thursday, February 13 - Weekday

8:00 a.m. † Reverend Francis M. Rodgers

Friday, February 14 - Ss. Cyril, Monk and Methodius, Bishop

8:00 a.m. † Margaret Cornelius - Kim and John Gavel

Saturday, February 15 - Blessed Virgin Mary

8:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m.

† Joseph Ciganik - Rose Ciganik and Family † John C. Mascuch - Pat and Bill McKim

Sunday, February 16 - The Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

10:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m.

† Richard Carlisle and Erin Carlisle - Vicki Carlisle Living and Deceased Members of St. Alexis and St. Alphonsus Parishes

MONDAY, February 10 Mass at Wexford House Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Handbell Choir Support Group RCIA

TUESDAY, February 11 Tuesday Hope Children’s Choir Ladies of Charity

WEDNESDAY, February 12 Men’s Prayer Group Adult Choir

THURSDAY, February 13 Discovering Christ Support Group B

FRIDAY, February 14 Support Group Mass at North Hills Rehab Support Group

SATURDAY, February 15 Small Groups Emmaus Group Breakfast Club Support Group Little Sisters of the Poor Collection Fellowship Sunday

SUNDAY, February 16 Little Sisters of the Poor Collection Fellowship Sunday Burick Baptism EDGE Support Group

2:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:15 p.m.

12:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

6:45 a.m. 7:00 p.m.

6:15 p.m. 7:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.

8:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m. All Masses All Masses

All Masses All Masses

11:30 a.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

This Week at Saint Alexis

Regular Electronic (11th & 22nd)

Total

Offertory $ 10,400 $ $ 10,400

Loose Cash $ 974 $ $ 974

Parish Share $ 1,085 $ $ 1,085

School $ 516 $ $ 516

St. Anthony/DePaul $ 83 $ $ 83

Initial Offering $ 10 $ $ 10

General Donations $ 5,230 $ $ 5,230

Votives $ 412 $ $ 412

TOTAL $ 18,710 $ $ 18,710

Income: January 27 through February 2, 2020

Parish Share Assessment: $ 139,733 - Collected: $ 241,151

Mass Time 4:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m.

Eucharistic Ministers

J. Schuler, M. Schuler, B. Busi, T. Parker, C. Reid, M. Bauer, M. Dornburg

G. Quatchak, R. Reiger, P. Quatchak, M. Wertz, M. Schuler, J. Heim, S. Stack

Reader 1 D. Givens K. Gavel

Reader 2 D. Givens J. Dagnon

Altar Servers

M. Allessi, M. Allessi, S. Komoroski

B. Vernon, L. Haught, D. Harrington

Cantor C. Sutter L. Hoffmann

LITURGICAL MINISTER SCHEDULE FOR

SAINT ALEXIS: FEBRUARY 15-16, 2020

THANK YOU!

We are grateful for the following memorial gift that was recently made to Saint Alexis Parish:

In memory of Michael Karas by The Rankin Family

Thank you!

Saint Alphonsus and Saint Alexis News

First Sacrament Dates

Please mark your calendar:

First Reconciliation: Saturday, February 29 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Alexis Tuesday, March 3 at 7:00 p.m. at Saint Alphonsus

First Holy Communion: Saturday, April 25 at 4:00 p.m. Mass at Saint Alexis Sunday, April 26 at 10:00 a.m. Mass at Saint Alexis Sunday, May 3 at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Masses at Saint Alphonsus All students are welcome to attend either Church. For more information, contact Paula Green at 724.935.0877.

JESUS TO GENESIS BIBLE STUDY

What is the Bible, where does it come from, and what is its purpose? How are Catholics supposed to read the Bible and what story does it tell? These are the ever-important questions answered in Genesis to Jesus, the newest journey through scripture video from the Saint Paul Center. Join us to learn the basic Catholic principles for reading

Scripture and to survey the broad outline of the books of the Bible and their place in the story of salvation. Genesis to Jesus bible study will be held (12-weeks) on Wednesdays, March 4 through May 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Saint Alexis Education Center, Room 112. For more information and to register, visit www.catholicwexford.com/ under “Faith Formation” or call 724.935.4343 ext. 225.

The 13th Annual Saint Alphonsus Lenten Fish Fry is approaching!

We are hoping for ALL parishioners to get involved with our annual Fish Fry. Last year we raised over $111,000, which was split 50/50 with our parish and Blessed Francis Seelos Academy. Sponsorships of all levels are welcome! Your donation will help defray the costs of the fish fry. Corporate and food sponsorships are available. New this year: all food sponsors will have one “fast pass” to skip the line to dine in. This is good for any one Friday, for up to six guests. Visit www.fish-fry.org to pay for your sponsorship online, or see the flyer in today’s bulletin. Our volunteer site is now open: we need YOU! To pull together a successful fish fry, a small army is needed each week; plus, it is a great way to meet your fellow parishioners or for teens to earn service hours. There are volunteer slots for many different jobs and times, including during the school day. Please log onto the parish website, look under the title “EVENTS,” and click on “FISH FRY.” Look for more information in the coming weeks about our award-winning fish fry! If you have any questions, or would like more information, please contact us at fishfry@SaintAlphonsusWexford.org. We are looking forward to seeing you during this Lenten season!

ASCEND

Youth and Young Adults

February calendar

(All meetings take place in the Youth Room at Saint Alexis unless otherwise noted.)

• 2/9 – Life Night (High School), 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

• 2/12 – High School Drop In/Hangout, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• 2/16 – EDGE Night (Middle School), 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Fr. Rodgers Hall at Saint Alexis campus.

• 2/19 – Tacos and Theology (18-35), 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

• 2/21 – High School Friday Night Dodgeball, 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in Small Gym at Saint Alphonsus campus

• 2/23 – Life Night (High School), 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• 2/26 – High School Drop In/Hangout, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

For more information on these events or to ask questions, visit us at facebook.com/ascendwexford or @ascendwexford on Instagram.

Retreat Groups

The men and women of Saint Alexis and Saint Alphonsus joined at Saint Paul of the Cross Retreat Center on two separate weekends. It was a peaceful weekend, filled with time for talks, workshops, and fellowship or plenty of time to just rest in the Lord.

HOW ARE THE FORTY DAYS OF LENT COUNTED?

It may seem like there are far more than 40 days included in the season of Lent, and there are! However, we still consider the season of Lent a 40 day period, and for good reason. To break down the numerical understanding, we first need to consider the spiritual understanding of the season.

According to the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, there are two themes or emphases of the season of Lent: Baptism and penance. If we look at the symbolism used throughout our sacred liturgy in this season, it is easy to see how these themes are expressed. We read this from the Congregation on Divine Worship, in their letter to clergy and liturgical ministers on preparation and celebration of Easter: “The Lenten season has a double character, namely to prepare both catechumens and faithful to celebrate the Paschal Mystery. You and faithful to celebrate the Paschal Mystery. The catechumens both with the rite of election and scrutinizes, and by catechesis, are prepared for the celebration of the sacraments of Christian initiation; the faithful, ever more attentive to the Word of God and prayer, prepare themselves by penance for the renewal of their own baptismal promises.” The “baptismal” or “initionary” Lent consists of forty days from the First Sunday of Lent through Thursday the sixth week of Lent (Holy Thursday during Holy Week). This time is also called the period of purification and enlightenment. This is a special time of prayer for the elect, that is, those preparing for Baptism at the Easter Vigil.

Lent is also the principal time of reflection for all the faithful on their own Baptism, as well as on the mysteries of conversion, repentance, and reconciliation. This penitential emphasis is symbolized by the Lenten fast. Because Sundays are never days of penance, Lent is also counted as forty days of fasting from Ash Wednesday through Holy Saturday inclusive: six weeks, not including Sundays, plus the four days from Ash Wednesday on. This dual enumeration leads to some confusion about when Lent begins and ends. Both Ash Wednesday and the First Sunday of Lent have texts and rites which mark the beginning of Lent:

Lord, protect us in our struggle against evil. As we begin the discipline of Lent, make this day holy by our self-denial. (Opening prayer, Ash Wednesday)

The official calendar notes that, “Lent runs from Ash Wednesday until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper” (General Norms for the Liturgical Year and the Calendar). Because fasting begins immediately, most people think of Lent as continuing until the Easter Vigil. Knowing that those 40 days conclude on Holy Thursday will help us to prepare and reflect properly this Lenten season.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT NEWS—LIVE CLASSROOM TRAINING AVAILABLE!

Saint Kilian Parish in Cranberry will be hosting a live class of the Mandated Reporting Training on Thursday evening, February 13, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This clearance is needed for any parish volunteer that will have contact with children, and all Catholic School volunteers. Often volunteers obtain this clearance through an online class which takes over 3 hours. If you prefer a live class-room setting close to home, this is a great opportunity! Please register online on our website under Safe Environment, or call our Safe Environment Coordinator, Mary King, at 724.935.1151 ext. 212, with any questions.

Blessed Francis Seelos Academy Celebrating Catholic

Schools

Catholic Schools Week was held January 26 though February 1. This year’s theme, “Catholic Schools: Learn, Serve, Lead, Succeed!” was celebrated in many ways throughout the week. Students at both the K-8 campus and the Early Childhood Center participated in many service projects. The preschool students sent care packages to a family with a loved one in the hospital and also designed and framed a special artwork piece for a family facing a difficult time. The older students donated and packed bagged lunches for the homeless that are served by The Red Door, a ministry in downtown Pittsburgh and provided snacks for Focus Pittsburgh, a free health center. Families had an opportunity to visit the campuses as well during the Open House and the K-4 lunch with your family. Students were reminded each day to celebrate Catholic Schools and their gifts from God with days such as “Crazy Hat Day” and the annual talent show. The students also learned about the “Pioneers of Flight” during a Civic Light Opera performance at the school. At Blessed Francis Seelos Academy, we “Learn, serve, lead and succeed!"

Welcome Father Will

Father Will Wuenschel celebrated his first official Seelos Academy school Mass during Catholic Schools week. The kindergarten and first grade classes that he visited before Mass were happy to meet him! Welcome Father Will!

Upcoming Events to Support the

School

Seelos Academy’s 3rd Annual Adult Trivia Night will be held Saturday, February 22 at the Ryan Center. Tables of 8 compete against others for cash prizes. Bring your friends and BYOB for a fun-filled evening. Purchase a dessert at the dessert auction, or take home a high-end bottle of wine from the wine pull! There are still tables and sponsorships available! Visit www.tinyurl.com/SeelosTrivia2020 for more information and to register. All proceeds from this event are donated directly to Blessed Francis Seelos Academy.

Save The Date!

On Saturday, March 14, Seelos Academy will host its first Casino Night. Come enjoy a causal night out with friends, family, and neighbors, as you compete to be one of the three grand prize winners. Three casino game winners (those with most chips) will walk away with BIG prizes, such as a home entertainment package. Play non-casino games to win fantastic high end prizes like designer purses, tickets to Designer Bag Bingo for October 2020, "beer for a year," a craft cocktail creator kit, and much, much more! There will be food trucks, a beer tent, and a cigar bar. All profits for this night will go straight to Blessed Francis Seelos Academy Interested in becoming a gaming table sponsor or being considered a "HIGH ROLLER”? Contact Lisa Tumolo Matzus by phone or text at 412.952.7200 or via email at bingo@seelosacademy.org.

neighborhood news

diocesan news

Love is Always Conditional All college students and young adults are welcome to a free dinner and a talk by Dr. Leonard J. DeLorenzo, titled: “Love is Always Conditional.” The talk takes place on Friday, February 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Saint Paul Seminary Cardinals’ Great Hall. Dr. DeLorenzo, works in the McGrath Institute for Church Life and teaches theology at the University of Notre Dame. He wrote several books and speaks regularly on such themes as the Catholic imagination, the witness of the saints, and character development and its challenges in the modern world. For more information or to register, visit: www.diopitt.org/love-is-always-conditional.

Find Your Greatness

Great habits create great lives. Are your habits helping you become the best version of yourself? Dynamic Catholic presents “Find Your Greatness: Four Habits that Will Change Your Life” at Saint Ferdinand Church on March 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The presentation is based on Matthew Kelly’s book, The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic. Nationally-renowned speaker and bestselling author Allen Hunt will present. Tickets cost $25. To purchase tickets, visit: dynamiccatholic.com/events.

Youth/Young Adult Ministry

Leadership Breakfast At the Diocese of Pittsburgh’s Youth/Young Adult ministry breakfast, Dr. Leonard DeLorenzo will speak on empowering young people for life’s big decisions. The event takes place on Saturday, February 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Saint Paul Seminary (2900 Noblestown Road, Pittsburgh, 15205). Breakfast includes pancakes, bacon, eggs and more. Suggested donation of $5.00 at the door. To register, visit: www.diopitt.org/breakfast.

Store for the Society of

Saint Vincent de Paul

The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is looking to open a store in the North Hills. It is asking for help in this project to locate a property, find financing, and all other tasks associated with such a noble project. The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is living out the commands of Christ as taught in the Beatitudes and are asking you to join in forming an advisory committee. Is God calling you to help perpetuate the mission of Saint Vincent de Paul of helping marginalized individuals in every community? Contact Jeane Kish, project coordinator: 412.343.4455 or Jeaneanne107@gmail.com.

13th of the Month Rosary and Program

Join the Spirit Refill Team of Neighbors North Catholic Community at Saint Teresa of Avila Church on Thursday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m. in the church. We will have recitation of the rosary and presentation by Dr. Carl Hasselman on The Passion of Christ from a Medical Perspective. All are invited to attend. The 13th of the Month Rosary and Program will continue throughout 2020.

FREE Family Movie Nights

at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart!

Friday, February 14, Gnomeo & Juliet Bring your littlest loves to celebrate family on Friday, February 14 with an indoor, family-friendly movie! Movie nights are free and open to the public. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., movie starts at 7:30 p.m. in the OLSH auditorium. Concessions will be available for purchase with proceeds benefiting the OLSH STEM Team!

Over 50 Casino Tour

Enjoy a Seneca Niagara Casino Trip March 25 through 27. Multiple stops at Seneca Casino, Buffalo Creek Casino and Presque Isle Casino. Cost is $285 per person double occupancy and $420 per person single occupancy. For more information or to sign up, contact Dave at 412.366.3789.

Looking for a Job?

Priority2Work can help!

If you are unemployed or looking to make a job change, we can help you! Priority2Work (P2W) http://priority2work.org/, is a local, all-volunteer, faith-centered 501 (c) (3) nonprofit that has worked with thousands of people in job transition. Please join us at our networking event, Tuesday, February 18, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Saint Kilian Parish Education Center (Cranberry Township). Sign-in begins at 6:30 p.m. Representatives from local and national businesses will be present to network with job seekers in a supportive, positive atmosphere. While not a job fair, the event allows participants to build their networks with these employers, with volunteers from multiple job search support groups, and with other job seekers. Dress is “business professional.” Light refreshments will be served. There is no cost to participate. You can register for this event by sending an email to discoverhopehere@gmail.com. Questions? Email paulhassett@zoominternet.net or Dick Heilman rheilman@hotmail.com.

Administrator Reverend Paul J. Zywan /ext. 224 /pzywan@diopitt.org

Senior Parochial Vicar Reverend William D. Wuenschel /ext. 233 /wwuenschel@diopitt.org

Deacons Deacon Albert Heiles /aheiles@diopitt.org Deacon Jeffrey J. Ludwikowski /jludwikowski@diopitt.org

Director of Parish Operations/Business Manager Chuck Goetz /ext. 223 /businessmanager@stalexis.org

Director of Evangelization Dave VanVickle /ext. 232 /evangelization@stalexis.org

Office Manager MaryEllen Pendel /ext. 221 /parish@stalexis.org

Directors of Music Christopher Brewer /ext. 226 /music@stalexis.org Mary Heagy/musicdirector@Saintalphonsuswexford.org Assistant Music Director - Lisa Hoffman

Director of Religious Education Louis Bosco /ext. 215 /religioused@SaintAlphonsusWexford.org Religious Education Program Manager

Paula Green /ext. 225 /reled@stalexis.org Media Coordinator Riley McCullough /ext. 211 /mediacoordinator@stalexis.org

Coordinator of Youth Ministry /Young Adults David Piccirilli /ext. 227 /lifeteen@stalexis.org

Bookkeeper/Safe Environment Coordinator Mary King /ext. 212 / bookkeeper@SaintAlphonsusWexford.org or safeenvironment@SaintAlphonsusWexford.org or safeenvironment@stalexis.org

Receptionist/Secretary Gail Clendaniel /ext. 210 / secretary@SaintAlphonsusWexford.org

A Parish of the Diocese of Pittsburgh - diopitt.org

SERVED BY

OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

JOIN US!

To become a registered member of the parish family, please visit our website at www.stalexis.org or at www.SaintAlphonsusWexford.org . Introduce yourself to us at Mass!

MARRIAGE

Arrangements must be made with a priest at least six months in advance of the desired wedding date.

HOLY ORDERS

For information about the priesthood or the vowed religious life, please contact Fr. Zywan or the Vocation Office of the diocese at 412.456.3131 or visit pghpriest.com.

BAPTISM

Celebrated on Sundays at 11:15 a.m. at Saint Alexis or at 12:45 p.m. at Saint Alphonsus by appointment. Arrangements should be made through the Parish Center several months in advance. Parents need to be registered parishioners and complete a pre-baptism class before scheduling a baptism.

MINISTRY TO THE SICK AND HOMEBOUND

Communal anointing is celebrated periodically. Anyone who is anticipating surgery is encouraged to request this sacrament prior to being admitted to the hospital. Individuals who are unable to attend Sunday Mass and want to receive the sacraments are asked to please call the Parish Center.

saintalphonsuswexford.org or stalexis.org

Phones - 724.935.1151 or 724.935.4343 Fax - 724.935.1270

A Pennsylvania Charitable Trust

* Bulletin announcements and flyers are due by 12:00 p.m. Friday, a week in advance of publication. *

We Welcome You Home!

North Hills Regional School Board - www.nhrces.org

BLESSED FRANCIS SEELOS ACADEMY

Saint Alphonsus and Saint Alexis Parishes - The Catholic Community of Wexford

Parish Office: 10090 Old Perry Highway Wexford, PA 15090

PRAYER

Eucharistic Adoration Saint Alphonsus: Wednesday 12:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saint Alexis: First Friday of every month from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Divine Mercy Devotion: Wednesday 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Saint Alphonsus

Prayer Ministry- To initiate a request for urgent prayers contact the following people: Saint Alexis - Barb Busi at 412.366.4829 Saint Alphonsus - Norma Heyl at 724.935.1094 or Jo Labrise at 724.935.3826. If you would like to be a part of this important ministry to pray for

RECONCILIATION

Saint Alexis: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, Saturday - 7:30 a.m.-7:55 a.m. Saturday - 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saint Alphonsus: Wednesday 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Principal Robert Reese - rreese@seelosacademy.org

School Secretary K-8 Patty Anfang - panfang@seelosacademy.org 724.935.1152

School Secretary Pre-K Chris Schlieper - cschlieper@seelosacademy.org 724.935.3940

DIOCESAN VICTIM ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR 412.456.3093 (Office)

1.888.808.1235 (Hot Line) PA Child Line - 1.800.932.0313

Call 911 immediately if a child is in danger.