As we mark the three-year anniversary of the Next Generation Parish initiative, we give thanks to God for the many graces already at work in our parish. One of our initiatives was to advance the growth in knowledge of the Catholic faith in the parishioners of Saints Martha & Mary Parish.
Great news, once again, our parish will be traveling to Preston County, West Virginia for the 38th consecutive year to help those in need with home repairs that are truly needed.
As we mark the three-year anniversary of the Next Generation Parish initiative, we give thanks to God for the many graces already at work in our parish. One of our initiatives was to advance engagement opportunities within the parish life at Saints Martha & Mary Parish.
Many would say that the light Jesus speaks of in the Gospel is our God-given talents. I think this is certainly valid, and I would never discourage us thinking this way or acting upon it. But I think perhaps the is another, more essential meaning.
Bishop Mark Eckman has announced that due to the significant winter weather forecast for this weekend that there will be a dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sunday, January 25. The faithful are urged, if possible, to attend Saturday Vigil Masses.
In response to the Bishop's guidance, which suggests that there be limited Masses at only certain churches this weekend, where this can be done safely, we will only offer Sunday Masses at the St. Catherine site, since this is within walking distance for Fr. Bob. The Sunday Mass Schedule will be as usual for St. Catherine Church with Masses at 9:15 and 11:30 AM. The Saturday Vigil Mass schedule will remain unchanged with 4 PM at St. Catherine and 5 PM at St. Richard. There will not be a 7:30 am or 10:00 am Mass at St. Richard this weekend.
We echo the advice from the Diocese:
No one should place themselves or others at risk due to dangerous weather.
Those who are able to do so safely may consider attending a Saturday Vigil Mass. Those who are unable to attend Mass should sanctify the Lord’s Day through prayer, reading the Scriptures, participating in a livestreamed or televised Mass, and spiritual communion.
We believe that this schedule will provide ample opportunity without compromising safety. May the Lord be with you this weekend.
-Fr. Bob, Fr. Dan and the Staff at Saints Martha and Mary Parish
We hope that everyone is enjoying a happy, healthy, and blessed 2025. As we look forward to a fast approaching "New Year", consider challenging yourself by joining our parish's Appalachia Summer Home repair Program. Our volunteers will once again travel to Preston County, West Virginia (38 consecutive year) to assist families in need with essential home repairs, offer emotional support and foster spiritual growth. Please consider getting involved by joining us June 14th - June 20th, 2026, for a week of rewarding service that offers the chance to make a special difference in the lives of your fellow neighbors. Along the journey, you will form new friendships and strengthen your personal faith. Our trip is expected to accommodate 80 - 85 volunteers, so early registration is highly encouraged! Upcoming 9th graders, high school students, (hours provided), young adults and adult volunteers are welcome.
We've all heard the expression 'seeing is believing' and in Sunday's Gospel, we hear Jesus echo something like it when He says: "everyone who sees the Son and believes in him." In that day and time this certainly made great sense. If they saw Jesus, then they likely heard His teaching, witnessed miracles, experienced His charismatic presence.
Couples can help each other to lead a balanced prayer life. There is a simple acronym, ACTS, which can help couples to lead a well-rounded prayer life.
As part of a prayer implementation team initiative, a series of messages will be featured to highlight the importance of and the benefits experienced by couples who pray together.
One of the most beautiful prayers in our Catholic tradition is the Holy Rosary. In fact, the entire month of October is dedicated in the liturgical calendar to the Rosary.
One of the beautiful things about being people of faith, especially Christian faith, is that other people often request us to lift up in prayer their personal special intentions.
For married couples, dipping into this treasure trove can be a comforting way to pray together, with the hopes of strengthening their marital bond and their family life.