Bulletin Announcement: Greenville
Marriage Moment 12-29-2024
Use this in your 12/29/2024 bulletin
As one year ends and another begins, it’s natural to review and plan. Share your favorite marital moment of 2024. What’s one hope you have to enhance your love in 2025?
A Family Perspective 12-29-2024
Use this in your 12/29/2024 bulletin
Today’s gospel reveals a truth about parenting: “but his parents did not know.” One reason parenting is so challenging is that our children don’t tell us everything. If even the Holy Family faced difficulties with their teenager, why should we expect it to be easier for us?
Marriage Moment 1-5-2025
Use this in your 01/05/2025 bulletin
Epiphany: The 3 Magi’s search for Jesus reminds us that Jesus came for all humankind, not just the Jewish people. So too, married love is not a gift to be hoarded. Reach out to someone who is sad, in trouble, or from a different culture. Can you do it together?
A Family Perspective 1-5-2025
Use this in your 01/05/2025 bulletin
After meeting Jesus, the Magi returned home by “another way.” What in your family needs to be done “another way?” Do you need a new approach to resolving differences, communicating, or showing affection? This new year is the perfect time to change what isn’t working. Take a tip from the wise men—there’s always “another way.”
Parenting Pointers 1-5-2025
Use this in your 01/05/2025 bulletin
The Epiphany - According to tradition, 3 kings came to honor the baby Jesus on this day. In this way the larger/secular world also recognized Jesus as God. Consider giving something gold, sweet smelling, or soothing (myrrh-like) to your child today as a sign of God’s presence within him or her.
A Family Perspective 1-12-2025
Use this in your 01/12/2025 bulletin
In today’s gospel Jesus was publicly AFFIRMED by his Father: “You are my beloved son, with you I am very pleased.” As parents we can become so focused on misbehaviors we overlook the good behaviors. Jesus needed AFFIRMATION and so do our children.
Parenting Pointers 1-12-2025
Use this in your 01/12/2025 bulletin
Increase the quiet space in your home. Move the TV to a location other than the rooms where your family congregates for meals or conversation. Consider also where phones should be used.
Child Protection
Use this in your 01/12/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments – 3 Ways for Teens to Reboot
Sending and receiving messages late at night can make it hard to fall asleep or interrupt sleep. Teens want to stay connected to friends, but the lack of sleep or interrupted sleep can affect everything from their mood to their sports performance. Here are 5 tips to follow at night that will help boost energy and focus in the morning. 1.) Log off your messaging apps, social media and email at bedtime. 2.) Turn off your phone when it’s time for bed don’t just set it to vibrate. 3.) Get in the habit of powering off your devices – especially if they are in your room. Turn off all electronics, like laptops, tablets, TVs, and video game consoles. Blinking lights and glowing screens can make it harder to fall and stay asleep. Sticking to a cut-off curfew each night for your devices will give your brain some much needed tech-free downtime. For additional resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/
Marriage Moment 1-12-2025
Use this in your 01/12/2025 bulletin
“Romance is a process...It's not a one-time thing. It's not something that's 'accomplished' and then forgotten. In order to work, it's got to be an ongoing thing.” (Gregory J. P. Godek, 1001 Ways to Be Romantic) Think of one romantic way you can express your love for your spouse today. Do it.
A Family Perspective 1-19-2025
Use this in your 01/19/2025 bulletin
At Cana, we gain valuable insight into Mary’s parenting style. She did not plead, argue, demand, or manipulate. Instead, she simply pointed out the situation and trusted her son to make the best decision.
Parenting Pointers 1-19-2025
Use this in your 01/19/2025 bulletin
Remember, your children are not a reflection of you. They are souls placed on this earth by God with their own unique purpose. Our job, as parent and guide, is to help them identify this purpose.
Marriage Moment 1-26-2025
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“No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends.” (John 15:13) On your wedding day you laid your very life into the hands of another person without knowing what the future held. (Leif Kehrwald, Marriage & the Spirituality of Intimacy) Sometimes it is hard to love unconditionally, Isn’t it?
Parenting Pointers 1-26-2025
Use this in your 01/26/2025 bulletin
Let your children know when you see them acting responsibly, talking initiative, or being helpful. Use phrases like, “I appreciate that.” or a simple “Thank you.”
A Family Perspective 1-26-2025
Use this in your 01/26/2025 bulletin
In today’s gospel, Jesus was 'praised by all' except in his hometown of Nazareth, where 'the eyes of all were intently on him.' Acceptance can be difficult to find at home due to unrealistic EXPECTATIONS. Jesus challenges us to 'proclaim liberty' to anyone 'oppressed' or 'captive' by our EXPECTATIONS.
A Family Perspective 2-2-2025
Use this in your 02/02/2025 bulletin
Mary and Joseph must have felt immense pride when their village 'all spoke well of Jesus and were amazed at his words.' However, they likely experienced shame when the same people drove him out of town. Like Mary and Joseph, the highs and lows of parenting are part of our journey towards becoming a Holy Family.
Parenting Pointers 2-2-2025
Use this in your 02/02/2025 bulletin
Family discussion starter: Imagine being present at the Creation. Which day is your favorite: light, the sky, the earth and vegetation, the sun and moon, birds and sea creatures, animals, humanity, a day of rest? (adapted from Family Calendar, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown)
A Family Perspective 2-9-2025
Use this in your 02/09/2025 bulletin
In today’s gospel, Jesus asked Simon to begin by 'going a short distance.' Later, he encouraged Simon to 'go into deeper water.' Similarly, the first step toward reconciliation is often a small one, which gives us the courage to venture further 'into deeper water.' Reconciliation begins with that initial short step!
Child Protection
Use this in your 02/09/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Digital Dating Abuse can be defined as “a pattern of behaviors that control, pressure, or threaten a dating partner using a cell phone or the internet.” One quarter of youth (12-17) who have been in a romantic relationship during the previous year report that they’d been the victim of digital dating abuse. So, what are some of the best ways for a parent to open up communication with their child about a delicate topic like online dating? First and foremost, ask your child what they are doing online and then really listen to why they like or don’t like what’s going on there. Parents must be diligent about staying on top of the latest trends. Great online dating tips can be found at www.cyberwise.org. To see what the diocese is doing to help maintain safe environments for children and youth visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/
A Family Perspective 2-16-2025
Use this in your 02/16/2025 bulletin
When you hear today’s gospel speak of poverty, hunger, sorrow, or exclusion, you don't have to look far. These struggles often occur within families. Children feel 'insulted' when constantly criticized. Spouses 'hunger' for affection. Grandparents feel 'excluded' by divorce and custody decisions. Parents 'weep' because they feel alienated from their children.
A Family Perspective 2-23-2025
Use this in your 02/23/2025 bulletin
Research on the effects of religion on family relationships reveals that hostility and prayer cannot coexist. You cannot harbor hostility toward someone you are praying for. Today’s gospel encourages us: 'Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who mistreat you.
A Family Perspective 3-2-2025
Use this in your 03/02/2025 bulletin
Today, Jesus reminds us: 'Why do you notice the speck in your brother's eye but fail to see the log in your own eye?' It's often easier to focus on changing others rather than addressing our own flaws. However, this is futile, as the only person we can truly change is ourselves.
Child Protection
Use this in your 03/09/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Pledge to Heal: The Diocese of Erie remains committed to helping survivors of clergy sexual abuse heal and recover. The diocese will provide counseling assistance for those who have been abused by a member of the clergy. For more information, please contact Dr. Gerard Tobin, our Victim Assistance Coordinator, at 814-451-1521. The diocese encourages anyone who has experienced abuse or misconduct by a member of the clergy or any employee or volunteer of the church to contact their local law enforcement. To report abuse to the independent investigators retained by the diocese, email ErieRCD@KLGates.com. Victims/survivors or concerned individuals can report abuse directly to the diocese by calling 814-451-1543.
A Family Perspective 3-9-2025
Use this in your 03/09/2025 bulletin
We may often feel like the Prodigal Son, but the gospel encourages us to focus on the father who was forgiving and understanding. We all make mistakes and need forgiveness. Who in your family needs your forgiveness and acceptance this Lent?
A Family Perspective 3-16-2025
Use this in your 03/16/2025 bulletin
Jesus “went up the mountain to pray” and he was “changed.” Prayer has the power to transform us. This Lent, set aside a few minutes each day to pray for your family members. Pray before each meal, and if you are married, spend five minutes in prayer together.
A Family Perspective 3-23-2025
Use this in your 03/23/2025 bulletin
The owner of the fig tree was impatient because the tree did not meet his expectations. In families, there are those who don’t live up to our expectations. Imitate the gardener and give them more time and support. Don’t cut them out of your life. Love calls us to be connected, not just productive.
A Family Perspective 3-30-2025
Use this in your 03/30/2025 bulletin
We may feel like the Prodigal Son but the gospel wants us to focus on the father who was forgiving and understanding. We all make mistakes and need forgiveness. Who in your family needs your forgiveness and acceptance this Lent?
Child Protection
Use this in your 04/06/2025 bulletin
Child Abuse Prevention Month- Reporting Child Abuse: It is every adult’s moral responsibility to report known or suspected abuse or neglect of a minor to the responsible authorities. Physical and sexual abuse of minors are pervasive societal problems, and only concerted and sustained efforts by all adults in every segment of society can help to protect children and youth. In the 2023 Pennsylvania statewide report there were 5,129 substantiated reports of child abuse. 1,749 or 34.1% of the substantiated reports were for sexual abuse, 1,350 were physical abuse. Parents remain the persons most responsible for abuse of their children. To report child abuse, call Childline at 1-800-932-0313 (anytime 24/7). For particular questions on reporting abuse in the Diocese of Erie, you may call the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.
A Family Perspective 4-6-2025
Use this in your 04/06/2025 bulletin
Stoning is not just an ancient act of violence. Each day in our homes we throw stones of ridicule, criticism, name-calling and put-downs. All of it is deadly. Hear Jesus in today’s gospel: “Whoever is without sin can throw the first stone.” Rid your home of violence. Stop verbal stoning!
Child Protection
Use this in your 04/13/2025 bulletin
Child Abuse Prevention Month: Recent statistics tell us one in ten children are sexually abused before they turn 18. 91% of sexual abuse is perpetrated by someone the child or the child’s family knows. This means that on every Sunday in our congregation there are people who have been abused and may continue to experience the pain of that abuse. Reaching out to those who have suffered from abuse is critical in bringing hope and the love of Christ to them. Assistance is available for victims/survivors of clergy sexual abuse by contacting the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator, Dr. Gerard Tobin at 814-451-1521.
A Family Perspective 4-13-2025
Use this in your 04/13/2025 bulletin
Today, Jesus tells us, “I am among you as one who serves.” By accepting the palm branch today, you publicly reaffirm your baptismal promise to follow Jesus as “one who serves.” Selfless service is what defines a family as truly Christian.
Child Protection
Use this in your 04/20/2025 bulletin
Child Abuse Prevention Month: Be Vigilant: It is vitally important that we are constantly vigilant concerning the behaviors of those who interact with children and communicating our concerns to the appropriate parties. Each one of us can play an important role in strengthening this culture of prevention. For example, we can better prevent abuse by ensuring that the signs of abuse are identified and reported. Noticing these warning signs, taking them seriously, and reporting them could prevent abuse in the future. When we witness inappropriate behavior or something that just doesn’t seem quite right, we must report our concerns through the appropriate channels. In the Diocese of Erie for particular questions, you may call the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.
A Family Perspective 4-20-2025
Use this in your 04/20/2025 bulletin
Millions of Christians around the world celebrate the Resurrection today. It all began simply on the first Easter with one person telling another: “Mary told Peter” and “they believed.” Faith is passed from one person to another; it is caught, not taught, and parents are the most effective at passing faith to their children.
A Family Perspective 4-27-2025
Use this in your 04/27/2025 bulletin
Jesus connects PEACE and FORGIVENESS in today’s gospel. In our families, we will only experience peace to the extent that we forgive one another. Peace is purchased with the currency of forgiveness. When we allow our anger and pride to lock others out, we also lock out peace and harmony.
Child Protection
Use this in your 04/27/2025 bulletin
Child Abuse Prevention Month: Throughout the Gospel, Christ calls upon His followers to care for the most vulnerable among us, especially children. Mandated Reporters in the Diocese of Erie are people who hold positions of trust in our schools, parishes, agencies, and institutions and are mandated by Pennsylvania law and the diocesan Policy for the Protection of Children to report suspected abuse of a minor. All employees and volunteers working/serving for the Diocese of Erie, in our parishes, schools or agencies are mandated reporters both legally and morally obligated to report any reasonable suspected or known child abuse to ChildLine, the local police, or other appropriate agency. Visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/ to learn the specific reporting procedures required by the diocese.
A Family Perspective 5-4-2025
Use this in your 05/04/2025 bulletin
Jesus invited the disciples to “Come and have breakfast.” Just like the Last Supper, Jesus shows us at this beach breakfast that meals are about more than just eating. They are opportunities to share prayer, listen to each other’s stories, and support one another in love.
A Family Perspective 5-11-2025
Use this in your 05/11/2025 bulletin
Today’s gospel reminds us to be shepherds for our children, who depend on us to be their guides and role models. Where are we leading them? When they “hear our voice,” what message do they receive?
Child Protection
Use this in your 05/11/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Digital Safety and Your Child: If your child gives out personal information while online, it is easy to track and tough to completely remove. Teach your child to never share personal information such as full name, address, phone number, email, school, or birthday on any social media site. Teach them to never give anyone their passwords. Help your child set up strong passwords and do a yearly checkup on them. Adjust privacy settings for online games, apps, social media sites and your child’s electronic devices. Don’t forget to check the GPS settings ability to unintentionally share your child’s location. Avoid using pubic wi-fi when sharing personal information. For additional resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/
A Family Perspective 5-18-2025
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In today’s gospel, Jesus tells us: “Love one another.” Love is the glue that holds a family together. It’s not the activities a family engages in that make it exceptional, but the love they share for one another.
A Family Perspective 5-25-2025
Use this in your 05/25/2025 bulletin
Today Jesus gives this advice: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” Worry and anxiety can consume our lives preventing us from seeing the love which surrounds us and binds us to one another.
A Family Perspective 6-1-2025
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In today’s gospel, Jesus speaks of unity, not uniformity. Uniformity means everything is the same, while unity requires recognizing and reconciling differences. How do you reconcile differences in your home? Do you listen respectfully, or do you try to manipulate or impose your opinion? The seeds of unity and division are present in every family. What we sow, we reap. What is your family harvest?
A Family Perspective 6-8-2025
Use this in your 06/08/2025 bulletin
Today’s gospel tells us that God wants to be with us always and in all ways. Every family is called to be a tabernacle where God dwells. Is Jesus a permanent member of your family or a temporary guest? Today, the promise is given. The choice is yours.
Child Protection
Use this in your 06/08/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Listen: This summer, when children are out of school, meeting new people and going to new places, make sure that you talk to them often about their experiences and the people they’ve met. Listen carefully to your children. If possible, observe and get to know the other children and adults who are part of your children’s summertime fun. Above all, communicate your safety concerns to your children. Make sure your children know they can come to you with any concerns they may have about the people they interact with. And if you hear of or observe behaviors that may be inappropriate, make sure to communicate your feelings to people who are in a position to intervene. Communication is key in creating and maintaining a safe environment all year round. For additional resources visit: www.eriercd.org/childprotection/
A Family Perspective 6-15-2025
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The words of Jesus in today’s gospel, 'I have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear it now,' resonate deeply with the experience of any parent. It can be frustrating when our efforts to guide are misunderstood or not well received. We cannot program our children; we can only teach, lead, and trust that the Spirit of truth will guide them
A Family Perspective 6-22-2025
Use this in your 06/22/2025 bulletin
In today’s gospel, Jesus teaches that we will find abundance by sharing what little we have. Regardless of how limited our time, money, or food may be, it becomes sufficient when shared.
A Family Perspective 6-29-2025
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In this story, Jesus asks his friends who they think he is. Peter says that Jesus is God's Son. Jesus is very happy with Peter's answer and tells him that his strong faith will help build a strong Church. This teaches us that knowing who Jesus is and having faith is very important. What would YOUR answer be?
A Family Perspective 7-6-2025
Use this in your 07/06/2025 bulletin
Just like the seventy-two disciples sent out by Jesus in today's gospel, families are called to be missionaries. Through our lives, words, and lifestyle, we proclaim peace, commitment, fidelity, and respect in a culture often consumed by violence and self-gratification.
A Family Perspective 7-13-2025
Use this in your 07/13/2025 bulletin
Children learn by watching us. Do they see you helping others like the Good Samaritan, or avoiding them like the Levite in today's gospel? Frequently, it's more important to be concerned about what your children observe in your actions than what they see on TV or tech. Reflect on that.
A Family Perspective 7-20-2025
Use this in your 07/20/2025 bulletin
Facebook, messenger, messages, phone calls, emails, texts, and tweets can turn our lives into a series of constant interruptions. In today's gospel, Jesus says, 'You are anxious about many things,' reminding us that these distractions steal the precious time we need to truly be with others. Quality time is intentional time—free from distractions.
A Family Perspective 7-27-2025
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Today's gospel assures us that if we “ask,” we will 'receive'—perhaps not what we wanted, but what our Heavenly Father knows is best for us. The love we have for our children is but a fraction of the love God has for us. Just as our children trust us, we must trust “Our Father.”
A Family Perspective 8-3-2025
Use this in your 08/03/2025 bulletin
In today's gospel, Jesus teaches us: “One's life does not consist of possessions.” We spend so much time working to acquire more things that we neglect the people in our lives. What is enough? Are Jesus' words, “You fool,” meant for us?
A Family Perspective 8-10-2025
Use this in your 08/10/2025 bulletin
In today’s gospel, a servant waited for the master to return. Waiting is a normal part of family life. We wait for a child’s birth, then for small legs to catch up. Later, we wait for teenagers to return home safely. Finally, we wait alone, anticipating a call or visit from an adult child. Waiting is sacred time, for even in the waiting, we are connected.
Child Protection
Use this in your 08/10/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Diocesan Requirements for working with children: Working alongside the Bishop, the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth reinforces the ongoing implementation of policies and procedures that protect children. All clergy, employees, and volunteers in the Diocese of Erie who work with children must undergo criminal record checks. The diocesan Policy for the Protection of Children and Youth screening guidelines and abuse prevention training programs emphasize the importance of knowing the employees and volunteers who have access to children in our schools and parishes. Parents should remain vigilant in insisting that those with access to their children have gone through an application process and obtained the required clearances and trainings before being granted access to their children. Visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/ to see what is required for those who work with children and youth in our parishes/schools/agencies.
A Family Perspective 8-17-2025
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Today, Jesus warns us that His Word will create conflict between parents and children. In a permissive society that promotes individualism and consumerism, parents must steadfastly teach and embody the gospel values of respect, service to others, forgiveness, generosity, and compassion. A Christian family is a countercultural family.
A Family Perspective 8-24-2025
Use this in your 08/24/2025 bulletin
The phrase in today’s gospel, “I don’t know where you're come from,” is often echoed by parents about their children and vice versa. With rapid changes, one generation often has little in common with another. To bridge this gap, we must rely on love, trust, and mutual respect.
A Family Perspective 8-31-2025
Use this in your 08/31/2025 bulletin
A well-lived family life affirms Jesus' words in today’s gospel: “Those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Commitment, intimacy, loyalty, and love are the rewards of humble service and care for one another.
A Family Perspective 9-7-2025
Use this in your 09/07/2025 bulletin
Today’s gospel is clear: commitment to another involves sacrifice. Before we accept commitments such as marriage or parenting, we must plan carefully, like the king in today’s gospel. These are serious commitments that demand complete self-giving and are not for the faint-hearted or selfish.
Child Protection
Use this in your 09/14/2025 bulletin
**Note: Please mail/email the September Parish Bulletin containing the September announcement to the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth.
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Diocesan Child Protection Policies: The Diocese of Erie, is committed to protecting minors who are entrusted to our care. The Diocese has policies and procedures in place to address the national problem of child abuse, to aid in the prevention of abuse and to develop and maintain safe environments. All those who minister to minors are screened, trained, and agree to a Code of Conduct. To read the Policy that includes the Code of Conduct, go to: https://www.eriercd.org/childprotection/policies-1.html For more information, contact the diocesan Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.
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Use this in your 09/14/2025 bulletin
**Note: Please mail/email the September Parish Bulletin containing the September announcement to the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth.
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Diocesan Child Protection Policies: The Diocese of Erie, is committed to protecting minors who are entrusted to our care. The Diocese has policies and procedures in place to address the national problem of child abuse, to aid in the prevention of abuse and to develop and maintain safe environments. All those who minister to minors are screened, trained, and agree to a Code of Conduct. To read the Policy that includes the Code of Conduct, go to: https://www.eriercd.org/childprotection/policies-1.html For more information, contact the diocesan Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.
A Family Perspective 9-14-2025
Use this in your 09/14/2025 bulletin
Parents are like the shepherd in today’s gospel; they don’t give up and can’t rest if one of their children has wandered away. A parent’s persistent love offers a glimpse of the unconditional love God, Our Father, has for each of us. A parent is a window to the Divine
A Family Perspective 9-21-2025
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Despite all our time-saving gadgets, we still have less leisure and family time. To address this, we created the Myth of Quality Time. Don’t be fooled: Quality Time is Quantity Time. Jesus counsels us today that we "cannot serve two masters" and expect to be happy. Dedicate time to your family. No one in their final hours regretted not spending more time at work.
A Family Perspective 9-28-2025
Use this in your 09/28/2025 bulletin
In today’s gospel, the rich man died and was condemned to “a place of torment” because he ignored the poor. He asked Lazarus to go and warn his five brothers to change their ways, revealing ignoring the poor was a family pattern. What is your family’s attitude toward those who are poor?
A Family Perspective 10-5-2025
Use this in your 10/05/2025 bulletin
Faith is one of those things we just can’t get enough of! In today’s gospel, the apostles asked Jesus to “Increase our faith.” Where do you need an increase in faith: in yourself, your spouse, your children or in God? Faith helps us to overlook annoyances, forgive others, and seek forgiveness. “Lord, increase our faith!”
A Family Perspective 10-12-2025
Use this in your 10/12/2025 bulletin
In today's gospel, we see the lepers who, despite their intention to thank Jesus for their healing, got so caught up in their excitement that they never got 'around to it.' This is a situation we can all relate to. Often, we become so absorbed in our own lives that we forget to appreciate the blessings we have and the people who have helped us. This week, let's make a conscious effort to take nothing for granted and express our gratitude to those who deserve it.
Child Protection
Use this in your 10/12/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments – October is Respect Life Month: Our faith calls for us to uphold the value of human life and the dignity of the human person. The protection of children and vulnerable adults is the responsibility of the entire Church, including the faithful. The protection of children, youth and vulnerable adults from abuse and other harm is a respect life issue, and we must all do our part to uphold this ideal. Anyone who suspects or knows of abuse should report it immediately. For information on reporting child abuse visit https://www.eriercd.org/childprotection/
A Family Perspective 10-19-2025
Use this in your 10/19/2025 bulletin
In today's gospel, the widow is praised for her perseverance. In our homes, perseverance is essential for resolving differences in marriage and for teaching lessons and skills to our children. It is always an act of faith and trust in the goodness of others.
A Family Perspective 10-26-2025
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In today's gospel, Jesus says, "…who humbles himself will be exalted." It's not the occasional big events, but the daily, humble routines of family life and "ordinary time" that create bonds and relationships that last a lifetime. Embrace this approach, and you'll see the difference.
A Family Perspective 11-2-2025
Use this in your 11/02/2025 bulletin
Today is All Souls Day. A special day when we remember and pray for all the people who have died, especially those who are in Purgatory. It's a time to think about our loved ones who have passed away and to pray that they are at peace with God. This day helps us remember that our prayers can help those who are no longer with us. Can you think of someone special who has passed away that we can pray for today?
Child Protection
Use this in your 11/09/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Know the Warning Signs of a Predator: Perpetrators are not waiting on the street to snatch kids; only 10% of sexually abused children are abused by strangers. 90% are abused by someone known and trusted by the child/child’s family. Perpetrators integrate themselves into everyone’s life, not just the child. They build relationships so that they are trusted to be alone with the child. One of the most important ways to ensure the safety of children in our environments is to know the warning signs of adults who present a risk of harm to children. Among these signs are when the person (1) always wants to be alone with a child in areas where no one can monitor the interactions, (2) allows a child to do things their parents would not permit, (3) is always more excited to be with children than with adults, and (4) discourages others from participating in activities involving kids. Visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/ for more information and resources.
A Family Perspective 11-9-2025
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Jesus reminds us that the day will come for ‘the children of God’ where the complications of our earthly life will no longer matter. Just as parents recognize the sound of their children’s voices, when you call out “Lord," will God say, “Who’s there?”
A Family Perspective 11-16-2025
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Parenting is challenging with so many conflicting voices and influences. In today’s gospel, Jesus encourages parents to bravely give testimony and trust that He will provide the “wisdom” needed to be good parents. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; a loving Father is standing with you.
A Family Perspective 11-23-2025
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Today’s gospel reminds us the Kingdom of Heaven is not like Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Admission to Christ’s Kingdom is paid with the currency of acceptance, forgiveness, attention to the poor, and love of one’s enemy.
Child Protection
Use this in your 12/14/2025 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Bullying is defined as any unwanted aggressive behavior by another youth or group of youths that involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. 20% of youth ages 12-18 experience bullying. When adults respond quickly to bullying behavior, they send the message that bullying is not acceptable. There are ways parents can make a positive difference. Parents can educate themselves on the signs that a child is being bullied or is a bully. Parents should keep the lines of communication open with their child and model for their child how to treat others. Encourage your child to be inclusive by welcoming others to join their activities and groups. For more information on how to prevent bullying in your community visit www.stopbullying.org.
For additional resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotectionMarriage Moment 1-21-2025
Use this in your 12/21/2025 bulletin
Martin Luther King Day: Martin Luther King Jr. spoke about equality between the races. In marriage we call this mutuality. Although spouses may take on different tasks and roles, your value is equal. Is there any area of your marriage you want to be more equal (chores, parenting, income, affection)? Ask.