Bulletin for the week of January 30, 2011

Mission Intention for February

That all may respect the family and recognize it for its unmatched contribution to the advancement of society.

FUNERALS: Funerals were celebrated this week for James Miner and Robert Bird. Please remember them and their families in your prayers.

A SENIOR MOMENT: Two elderly ladies were discussing the upcoming dance at the country club. "We're supposed to wear something that matches our husband's hair, so I'm wearing black," said Mrs. Smith. "Oh my," said Mrs. Jones, "I'd better not go."

IHC MYSTERY PLAYERS: The Immaculate Heart Central Mystery Players from Watertown, will present an unforgettable experience at St. Alexander’s Church on Saturday, March 12th at 7:30 pm. Through the use of special lighting, music, pantomime and paraliturgical readings, this group of high school seniors and adults present a moving, dramatic mediation. This group has traveled extensively in New York State as well as the neighboring States. You are most welcomed to attend this unique and powerful prayer.

BLESSING OF THROATS: There is a legend concerning St. Blaise (died 316 AD) in which he saved the life of a young boy who had a fish bone caught in his throat. The boy’s mother brought Blaise food and candles when he was imprisoned. Thus, on February 3rd, the Feast of St. Blaise, we have the blessing of throats using two candles in the form of St. Andrew’s cross in the throat blessing ceremony. The blessing can be given by a priest, deacon or lay person who follows the rites and the following designated prayer:

Through the intercession of Saint Blaise,

Bishop and Martyr,

May God deliver you from every disease

of the throat and from every other illness:

In the Name of he Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit.

THANK YOU KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS: A heartfelt thank you goes to the Knights of Columbus for their generous donation of $2500 to Seton Academy. A portion of this money will be used to replace some of the chairs in the cafeteria. We are most grateful to the Knights for their support of Catholic education. We pray for them, their families, and their intentions. God bless the Knights of Columbus!

BAPTISM: Claire Elizabeth Smith, daughter of Benjamin and Natalie (Levac) Smith became a member of the Catholic community through the Sacrament of Baptism on January 23rd.

MARRIAGE TIP: Have you ever worked a crossword puzzle together? It can be done in the car or anytime your brain needs some exercise but your body doesn’t want to. It’s satisfying to find the right word and actually complete something together. Find more Marriage Rx atwww.foryourmarriage.org.

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FLU PRECAUTIONS: The Diocese of Ogdensburg has received some inquiries about precautions in church settings against influenza and concerning the recent hepatitis incident at a Long Island parish at Christmas. As in the past, Bishop LaValley is asking all parishes of the diocese to adopt the following precautionary measures:

Parishioners should not share the sign of peace if feeling ill.

It is recommended that parishioners receive Communion in the hand. Communion on the tongue presents hygienic problems during the flu season.

THANK YOU GIVING TREE: Richard Holcomb, Supervisor of Adult Services for the Clinton Count Department of Social Services sent the following letter: We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the generosity of your Parish families who contributed to the Giving Tree Program. As you are well aware over one hundred gifts were received and distributed to children and youth in need during this past holiday season. This is particularly impressive during these difficult economic times. As a result many families were able to enjoy a Merry Christmas and know that there are people, such as your Parish members, who are willing to keep the true meaning of the Season alive.