Bulletin Announcement: Oil City
Parenting Pointers 11-24-2024
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The Friday after Thanksgiving is the biggest buying day of the year. Try buying yourself some time by spending time as a family today – and this doesn’t mean shopping. Perhaps travel back in time to the days of the Pilgrims. See if you can live for a day without electricity or automobiles, much less computers or phones.
Marriage Moment 11-24-2024
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Thanksgiving week in USA: Whether or not you travel over Thanksgiving, remember those who can’t afford a plane ticket, gas, or even a pair of shoes, or worse – don’t have a loved one with whom to share the day. Our bounty is not deserved, but a gift. Give some of it away.
A Family Perspective 11-24-2024
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When we are young, our parents “tell us about Jesus” and we believe what our parents believe. At some point we must leave our parents faith and ask Pilate’s question: “Are you the King?’ Pilate is just asking these questions on our behalf.
A Family Perspective 12-1-2024
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At this time of year, we are especially mindful of our family as we prepare for Christmas. Today’s gospel warns us not to be consumed by all the consumer activity. This Advent, take time to appreciate the gift of the people in your life. The best gift this season might be your genuine appreciation of others.
Marriage Moment 12-1-2024
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Advent is a season of waiting, but…it may be hard to ponder waiting when there is so much preparation to do for Christmas. Perhaps wait patiently today for your beloved to return from work or complete a job.
Parenting Pointers 12-1-2024
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On Dec. 6, St. Nick’s day, children may get a small treat like candy in their shoe. But what about adding a note of appreciation; recognizing one of their talents.
A Family Perspective 12-8-2024
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Today’s gospel highlights the similar vocations of John the Baptist and parents. Like the Baptist, parents are called to make “rough ways smooth” and to “prepare the way of the Lord” for their families. This Advent, reflect and ask: “Does my life hinder or help my family to know Jesus?”
Marriage Moment 12-8-2024
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What puts passion into your marriage? For newlyweds this may come easily. For others perhaps it's been awhile. Often rekindling romance is a matter of doing something new together. Be creative before the year ends.
Parenting Pointers 12-8-2024
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Politics has put a lot of stress on the USA this year. Seek out someone you may have different political views with. Listen first. You don’t have to agree, but at least try to understand. Perhaps your child will notice your careful listening.
Child Protection 12-8-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- 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. For particular questions in the Diocese of Erie, you may call the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.
Marriage Moment 12-15-2024
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What makes a marriage happy is often not so much how compatible you are, but how you deal with incompatibility. How are you and your beloved most different?
Parenting Pointers 12-15-2024
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In this season of “Peace” continue your peacemaking by making an effort to resolve a conflict you have with a family member, a neighbor, or a person with a different political view from yours. Who ____? Try it.
A Family Perspective 12-15-2024
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Today’s gospel encourages us to SHARE! This Christmas, resist the pressure to give token gifts. Instead, use those funds to provide necessities to the poor. If our impoverished brothers and sisters are not on our gift list, we’ve missed the true meaning of Christmas.
Parenting Pointers 12-22-2024
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Christmas gifts may be opened and enjoyed, but there’s probably a lot of cleaning up to do. To be fully part of the family, include your children in the cleaning up too.
A Family Perspective 12-22-2024
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Mary was excited about her first pregnancy and rushed to share the news with her cousin. Sadly, children are often seen as a liability, “another mouth to feed,” or an “obstacle to my career.” While it is said that “Christmas is for children,” it is more accurate to say, “Christmas is for adults to appreciate the gift of children!”
Marriage Moment 12-29-2024
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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
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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?
A Family Perspective 1-5-2025
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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.”
A Family Perspective 1-12-2025
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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.
A Family Perspective 1-19-2025
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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.
A Family Perspective 1-26-2025
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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
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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.
A Family Perspective 2-9-2025
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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!
A Family Perspective 2-16-2025
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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
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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
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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.
A Family Perspective 3-9-2025
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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
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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
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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
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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?
A Family Perspective 4-6-2025
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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!
A Family Perspective 4-13-2025
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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.
A Family Perspective 4-20-2025
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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
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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.
A Family Perspective 5-4-2025
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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
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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?
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
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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
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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.
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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
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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
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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
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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.
A Family Perspective 9-14-2025
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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
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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
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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
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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.
A Family Perspective 10-19-2025
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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
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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?
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.