Directory of Ministries
& Opportunities
2008 – 2009
Pastoral Year
Table of Contents
·
Letter from the Pastor
·
Program Goals and Description
·
Administration, Facilities and Finance
·
Educational Ministries
·
Evangelization and Outreach
·
Liturgy
·
Youth and Family Ministries
·
Special Events
·
Staff Directory
Letter from the Pastor
– St. Clare’s Mustard Seed Initiative
Dear Friends,
When
I arrived at St. Clare’s on Saturday, July 12, 2008 I had the opportunity
to introduce myself at all the weekend masses. You, the parish family of
St. Clare’s, welcomed me with great warmth. The evident spirit of
hospitality that exists in this parish is a sign that we are trying to live in
God’s love and share it with one another.
In
2006 Msgr. Murphy and our parish staff began the Mustard Seed Initiative to
assist families to grow in God’s love and to respond to the challenges
that the love of His Son Jesus places upon us. The goal of this
initiative is to help adult family members to more fully understand their faith
so that you can both share and strengthen it in your children. From
September 2008 to August 2009 the expectation of the Mustard Seed Initiative is
that parents of each family in our school and religious education program will
be involved in at least five hours of Adult Faith Formation and Family
Catechesis. The hourly expectation is meant to apply per family
regardless of the number of children in the family.
Many
of the opportunities for prayer, spiritual growth and service which you already
undertake are included in a list of offerings and will complete our expectation
of a five hour commitment. Mustard Seed Initiative activities will be
highlighted on the parish calendar - available on our website and in our weekly
bulletin - and in this booklet. New and emerging opportunities will be
announced in the bulletin and on the website in the upcoming year.
May
your participation in this process help you to understand that Jesus Christ is
ever present to us offering us His comfort at the worst of times and
challenging us at the best of times to be His agents of hope and instruments of
peace in our community and world.
Sincerely yours,
Msgr. Richard J.
Guastella
Pastor
Program Goals and
Description
The Mustard Seed
Initiative is part of our response to the challenge which the bishops of the United States presented in their document “Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us.”
The bishops called on each parish to adopt two critical goals:
1.
To
seek to form parishes that are vitally alive in faith. These communities will
provide a parish climate and an array of activities and resources designed to
help adults more fully understand and live their faith.
2. To seek to form adults
who actively cultivate a lively baptismal and eucharistic spirituality with a
powerful sense of mission and apostolate. Nourished by word, sacrament, and
communal life, they will witness and share the Gospel in their homes,
neighborhoods, places of work, and centers of culture.
They challenged parishes
to nourish a living, explicit and fruitful faith in the lives of their
parishioners. St. Clare’s parish has taken on the challenge of Adult
Faith Formation through an on-going process of reflection and prayer intended
to foster the active participation of every member of the parish in the life of
this Catholic community and a greater commitment to their life in faith.
The Mustard Seed
Initiative asks for a commitment of five hours from each family with children
in the parish elementary school or religious education program. This commitment
would be met during the year from September through August. Families are asked
to select from a large menu of educational, service and prayer opportunities
designed to enhance the lives of parishioners. In many cases this commitment represents
a mere fraction of the commitment to our parish’s life which families are
making already. It is our belief that each opportunity offers a unique way for
you to reflect on your relationship with Jesus Christ and your neighbor. Each
opportunity to bring Christ and the neighbor into your homes and your hearts is
one to be cherished and welcomed.
Families are asked to
complete the Mustard Seed Initiative forms available at all parish events and
to submit them to the elementary school or religious education program where a
record of your involvement will be kept. Students will receive a Mustard Seed
Initiative card which they may use to keep their own record of their
family’s participation. Both our elementary school and our religious
education program will send periodic reminders to each family to highlight your
progress in meeting this yearly goal.
Please take the time to
look through this booklet to familiarize yourself with all the ways that the
family of St. Clare’s parish is reaching out to your family “to
preach the Gospel, sometimes with words.” You are sure to find a variety
of ways that you can be part of our on-going ministry. Take some time to look
at our bulletin and web site as well. New challenges and opportunities will be
announced throughout the year.
The gift of our love for
one another and the gift of our faith are gifts that will bear lasting fruit
for our families, our parish and our community. These are gifts that truly
endure. Thank you for making the commitment to our shared vision.
Administration,
Finances, and Facilities
Finance
Council: An advisory
council assisting the pastor in the financial administration of the
parish. Members are selected by the pastor.
Point
of Contact: Father
Richard
Mustard
Seed Credit: Each
member receives 5 hours credit per year
Meeting
Times: 3rd
Monday of each month 7:30 - 10:00pm
Presentation Center Dining Room
Parish
Council: An advisory
council assisting the pastor in making decisions that have a direct impact on
the future of the parish. Its objective is to maintain the vision of the parish
and it is guided by the Parish Mission Statement. The council provides support
and supervision for all parish ministries. Members are selected by the pastor.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
Fred Herron
Mustard
Seed Credit: Each
member receives 5 hours credit per year
Meeting
Times: Bi-monthly
on the last Thursday: 8:00 - 10:00pm
Faith Formation Center
Safe
Environment: Archdiocesan
guidelines require that all paid staff and volunteers must complete background
checks and training, or they may not come in contact with minors in any
Archdiocesan school, program or activity. There are no exceptions. In
keeping with this mandate for the protection of our children there are two requirements:
- A background
check for all of our employees and volunteers
- A training
class for all our employees and volunteers which can take two forms:
- a 3.5 hour
workshop for all clergy, paid church staff and paid teachers
- one hour video
training for all our other volunteers.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Bobby Bulger
Mustard
Seed Credit: 1
hour credit for participation in mandatory training.
Meeting
Times: Consult
the parish bulletin for scheduled trainings.
Educational Ministries
Adult
Faith Formation Film and Lecture Series:
Conversations in Faith: This program will look at the lives of
two influential spiritual figures, Francis Xavier and Thomas Merton. The
year will focus on the call to conversion and growth that is part of our common
Christian vocations. Father Michael Himes of Boston College will provide
these opportunities for prayer and conversation.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
Fred Herron
Mustard
Seed Credit: 2
hours per session
Meeting
Times: Thursdays:
4:00 - 5:30pm Faith Formation Center
Faith in the Dark: Pope John Paul II wrote in a letter to
artists: "Every genuine art form in its own way is a path to the inmost
reality of man and of the world." He reminds us "that is why the
Gospel fullness of truth was bound from the beginning to stir the interest of
artists, who by their very nature are alert to every epiphany of the inner
beauty of things."
The Faith in the Dark series
explores these epiphanies of beauty as they appear in the world of film.
Each month we will select a film which sheds a little bit of light on the
richness of God's creation and the challenge of the gospel.
Point of Contact: Mr.
Fred Herron
Mustard
Seed Credit: 2
hours per session
Meeting
Times: 1st
Monday of each month: 8:00pm
Faith Formation Center
Consult the bulletin or web
site for film listings.
Faith on a Summer Night: This film series extends the plan of our Faith
in the Dark Series throughout the summer. Each week a film is selected
which sheds a little bit of light on the richness of God's creation and the
challenge of the gospel.
Point of Contact: Mr.
Fred Herron
Mustard
Seed Credit: 2
hours per session
Meeting Times: Monday
evenings at 7:30pm Faith Formation Center
Consult the bulletin or web
site for film listings.
Faith on the Web: This series provides an opportunity for
the parishioners of St. Clare’s to hear the best speakers from around the
world talk about their passionate commitment to the love of learning and the
desire for God. Each lecture is selected because it addresses an important area
of Christian life in a way which is both scholarly and accessible to the
interested lay person. Lectures will be presented in the Faith Formation Center and will be followed by conversation guided by a member of the parish
staff. Refreshments will be served.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
Fred Herron
Mustard
Seed Credit: 2
hours per session
Meeting
Times: 8pm
Faith Formation Center
Consult
the bulletin or web site for a list of lectures.
Parish
Library: The parish
library maintains a collection of books, pamphlets and videos in support of the
faith formation needs of parishioners. Volunteers will work to staff
available hours and maintain the collection.
Point
of Contact: Ms.
Mary Mahoney
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour of credit for each hour served
Meeting
Times: Sundays,
11:00am - 1:00pm
Robotics
Team: Students do
scientific research after school under the direction of Mrs. Lee. The
research and experiments, like their faith, are put into action and used to
benefit the greater community of Great Kills at Jack’s Pond, and with the
Special Needs Children at Great Kills Baseball Field.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Mary Lee
Mustard
Seed Credit: 1
hr per participation in events benefiting community
Meeting
Times: Consult
school for details
School
– Parochial School:
A faith community which seeks to integrate moral values in all phases of the
curriculum. Academic excellence for each child in accord with his/her potential
is of paramount concern. Every opportunity is given to the students to broaden
their horizons through involvement in extra-curricular activity programs
offered by the school and community.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Jo Rossicone
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour of credit for each hour served.
Volunteers receive credit for scheduled
participation in school-sponsored activities. Consult the Principal for
opportunities to volunteer
School
– Pre-School: St. Clare Pre-School is a Christ centered learning program in a loving, caring environment.
Emphasis is placed on developing a healthy self-image in each child. Each child
is encouraged to gain confidence and to develop relationships with other
children.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Julie McDonald
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour of credit for each hour served.
Volunteers are encouraged to speak with
representatives of the pre-school concerning
opportunities for service.
School
– Religious Education (CCD):
We at the parish of St. Clare look upon religious education as a total parish
experience involving not just the child, but also parents, families,
catechists, and priests that form our parish community of faith. We
believe that religious education is getting to know Jesus and learning what is
expected of one who chooses to follow Him in the Catholic tradition.
We offer programs designed for more then
1,600 children from grade 1 through grade 6, young adolescents in grades 7 and
people of all ages with special needs - including those who are disabled and
their families. Classes meet on Monday and Wednesday evenings, Saturday
mornings and Wednesday afternoons.
We encourage the students to serve their
neighbor through random acts of kindness and ongoing community service. While
it is a component of their sacramental preparation, the youth are also aware
that is a necessary component of being a baptized Catholic, and so service is
part of their lives. We offer volunteer service opportunities for our students
as well as high school students and adult.
For information on registration and fees,
please check our website www.stclaresi.com/reled.html
or call the Religious Education office.
Point
of Contact: Ms.
Jessica Heap
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour of credit for each hour served.
Volunteer teachers and aides may receive
credit for regularly scheduled participation.
Consult the Director of Religious
Education for additional opportunities to volunteer
Evangelization
and Outreach
Bereavement
Support Group: Saint
Clare's Parish's outreach to the bereaved offers regularly scheduled support
groups to assist parishioners who have experienced the death of a loved one
within the past year. Members of the community, regardless of faith, are
invited to apply for participation in a group.
All inquires made through the Parish
Office, (718) 984-7873, will be answered by a facilitator of each group. Please
include your day and evening telephone numbers and, if possible, the best time
to receive a phone call.
Point
of Contact: Ms.
Linda Rizzotto, CSW
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour of participation
Meeting
Times: As
announced in the bulletin
Bread
for the World: Bread for
the World has over a 28 year history of seeking justice. It is a Christian
voice for ending hunger. Bread for the World is a nonpartisan
citizen’s movement of 46,000 people of faith, including 2,000
churches. Bread for the World members help hungry people by lobbying our
nation’s decision makers on legislation that addresses hunger in our
communities and around the world.
Bread for the World members write, call
and visit members of Congress. They also generate media coverage about national
legislation and other efforts that address hunger. Every year they have
an offering of letters concerning a particular issue that needs the attention
of our government officials.
St. Clare Parish is a covenant
parish for Bread for the World and has participated in areas regarding
sustainable development, WIC Program, food stamps, development assistance for
sub-Saharan Africa, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and Debt Relief for
the world’s poorest countries.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Bebe Kuck
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour of credit for each hour of participation
Meeting
Times: As
announced
Catholic
Daughters of America:
Court St. Clare, #912, a chapter of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas meets on the first Thursday of the month at 12 pm in the Pastoral Center. Women age 18 and older
are invited to join this charitable organization.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Rose Taylor
Mustard
Seed Credit: 2
hours for each session attended.
Meeting
Times: Pastoral Center
Core
(Small Christian Communities):
St. Clare Parish is a covenant parish for Bread for the World concerned for the
hungry of the world. The Core Committee of the Small Faith Groups have joined
together to foster our goals of prayer, activities, community, evangelization
and social involvement.
Concerns of the church are discussed and
activities to promote a stronger community are explored.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Bebe Kuck
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour of service.
Meeting
Times: Presentation Center Dining Room
Crafty
Ladies: Work year round
to make crafts to sell at the annual Christmas Fair as a fund raiser for St. Clare School. The group is open to experienced senior crafters and meets every
Thursday, September - June, from 9:00am - 12:00pm in the Faith Formation Center.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Dorothy Orletti
Mustard
Seed Credit: None
Meeting
Times: 9:00am
Thursdays, Faith Formation Center
Employment
Group: Exists to help the
unemployed to help themselves in their job search. Highly trained professionals
provide assistance in: self-assessment, networking, resume preparation and
development of interviewing skills. Sessions are open to all who need work.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
Art Merlino
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour of attendance.
Meeting
Times: Tuesdays,
7:00pm Pastoral Center
Check
the bulletin for specific guests & presentations
Ministry
of Consolation:
Members of the St. Clare community who have been trained in the liturgy of
Catholic funerals meet with the families of deceased parishioners to help plan
the funeral Mass. They help the families select scripture and music, describe
the rites that family members may choose to take part in, answer questions
about what will happen at the funeral, and help the priests prepare homilies by
encouraging the family to share special memories of the deceased.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Barbara Vullo
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour of service
Meeting
Times: As
announced in the bulletin
Parish
Nurse: The Parish Nurse
brings health/education services to the St. Clare Parish family and the local
community. The Parish Nurse focuses on a holistic approach to the mind, body,
and spirit. Services that the Parish Nurse offers include: health
education, counseling, referral services, liaison to the medical community,
home visitations, office visits by appointment, and the integration of faith
and wellness.
Services include: Home Visitations, Office
Visits, Blood Pressure Monitoring, Health Screening, Wellness Education, Health
Status Assessment, Compassionate Listening, Dietary Information, Infant/Child
Resources, Senior Person Resources, Physician, Dental, and Community Referrals.
Visit our parish website for more details
about this special ministry.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Lynn Boardman, RN
Mustard
Seed Credit: None
Meeting
Times: By
appointment
Parish
Social Worker: St.
Clare’s Family Healing Ministry provides for the services of a social
worker offering counseling, education and/or referral services to individuals,
couples, and families on a short-term basis. All services are provided at
no cost to parishioners and your confidentiality will be maintained. The
Parish Counseling Program office is located in the Presentation Center on Lindenwood Road. To inquire or to make an appointment, please call the
confidential line at (718) 984-8456.
Point
of Contact: Mrs. Linda Rizzotto, CSW
Mustard
Seed Credit None
Meeting
Times: By
appointment
Parish
Welcoming Ministry: Every
child preparing to enter Kindergarten or the upper grades in St. Clare’s
School or St. Clare’s Religious Education, accompanied by their
parent(s)/ guardian(s) (brothers and sisters are more than welcome to come with
the family, pets are optional) will attend a meeting of approximately twenty
minutes in which parish representatives will have the opportunity to let you
know how we can serve you and for you to mention any special needs or
interests.
Dates
and times of the process will be made available. Please note that this process
is required for the completion of the registration to enter St. Clare School or the Religious Education Program. Scheduling and availability of the family
is a main concern and all efforts will be made to accommodate days, evenings,
and weekends.
Point of Contact: Ms.
Gale LaForge
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for mandatory participation.
One hour for each hour of
service for volunteers.
Meeting
Times: Please
consult the parish bulletin for meeting times
Small
Faith Communities:
Throughout the parish small groups gather to pray, read the Scriptures and
share how the Word of God affects their daily lives. Members are then
challenged by the Scriptures to respond to the needs in their community,
country and world. Anyone interested in strengthening their relationship
with the Lord in this way is urged to contact the Rectory.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Bobby Bulger & Mrs. Bebe Kuck
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour of attendance
Meeting
Times: Ongoing
schedules & Periodic Announcements
St. Vincent de Paul Society: is composed of parishioners who volunteer
their time to visit and assist the needy families of the parish.
Two-member teams are assigned to each family
or individual in need. On monthly visits they deliver basic food items from our
pantry and a certificate for meat products. Extra visits at Thanksgiving,
Christmas and Easter bring all items needed for holiday meals. At bi-monthly
meetings, members discuss new cases, review existing cases and plan activities
for the coming months. On the fourth Sunday of each month the parish conducts a
food drive to stock the St. Vincent de Paul pantry.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
John Petrullo
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour of credit for each hour served
Meeting
Times: Varies
throughout the year
Liturgy
Advent
Wreath Workshop:
Bring the family to create your Advent wreath this year. We provide the materials
and the instructions. Space is limited, and registration is required. Watch the
bulletin or the parish web site www.stclaresi.com
for details.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard
Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting
Times: Nov.
22nd @ 1:00pm (School Cafeteria)
Altar
Servers: The Altar
Servers Society of St. Clare Parish is open to boys and girls in grades 7, 8
and high school. Training sessions take place in the spring and the servers are
formally installed at a Sunday liturgy. Through this ministry our young people
are invited to grow in their understanding of the importance and value of
liturgy in their lives.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
John Gillen
Mustard
Seed Credit: None
Meeting
Times: Altar
server schedules are distributed regularly
Baptismal
Catechesis: Communal
Celebrations of Baptism are usually celebrated in the Church on the first and
third Sundays of the month at 2:30pm. (Liturgical seasons may necessitate
schedule changes.)
First time parents at St. Clare's must
attend a catechesis which is usually held in the Faith Formation Center on the second Thursday of each month at 8:00pm.
Parents must register for both the
celebration and the catechesis with the rectory and special circumstances
should be discussed with Mrs. Terri Miyamoto the Baptismal Coordinator at (718)
984-7873.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard
Seed Credit: Two
hours for parent attendance
One hour for each hour served
for volunteers
Meeting
Times: 2nd
Thursday, 8pm Faith Formation Center
Blessing
of Animals: Bring your
pet to church for a special blessing honoring St. Francis of Assisi. Please
make sure all animals are on a leash or in an appropriate carrier. Human
refreshments will be available.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour
Meeting Time: October
5, 4:00 PM behind the Pastoral Center
Blue
Army: The purpose of the
Blue Army (established in 1960) is to spread devotion to Our Lady under her
title of Our Lady of Fatima. Motto: To Jesus through Mary. Visit
our website for more information about the Blue Army and their pilgrimages.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Babs Thomasy
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour of scheduled participation.
Meeting
Times: 1st
Saturday of each month: Chapel: 9:30am
Blue Army Meeting follows the monthly
prayer meeting at 10:45am in the Pastoral Center
Cantors:
Assist at liturgical
services by leading congregational singing, proclaiming songs and litanies, and
teaching new music.
Point of Contact: Mr.
George Poppe
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each hour of service.
Meeting Times: Schedules
appear regularly
Children’s
Catechumenate: Open to
12-17 year olds who have not received one or more of the Sacraments of
Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and
Eucharist). Weekly meetings prepare youth to receive these sacraments.
Phone the Rectory for details.
Point of Contact: Deacon
& Mrs. Rich Mitchell
Mustard
Seed Credit: None
Meeting
Times: Mondays,
6:45pm Cardinal Cooke Center
Children’s
Liturgy: Children from
kindergarten through second grade participate during the 10:00am Mass on the
first through fourth Sundays, October through May. Children attend Mass
with their parents and are invited to hear the Liturgy of the Word under the
guidance and instruction of approximately 40 parishioners trained in this
ministry. Prayer, song, readings, and activities appropriate to the
children’s ages are prepared by the instructors in the spirit of that
Sunday's scripture. Following the Prayer of the Faithful, children return
to the assembly.
Point of Contact: Ms.
Gale La Forge
Mustard
Seed Credit: 5
hours for 8 Sundays served
Volunteers must commit to serve one
Sunday a month for the year.
Meeting
Times: Sundays,
10am Mass in the Church
Choir
– Adult: Sing
at 11:30am Mass on Sundays and rehearse on Thursdays at 7:30pm in Church.
All are welcome to join – regardless of musical ability.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
George Poppe
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour served
Meeting
Times: Practice:
Thursdays, 7:30pm: Church
Minister
on Sundays at 11:30am: Church
Choir
– Children: Sing at
10:00am Mass on Sundays and perform at Carmel Richmond Nursing Home. Open
to any child Grade 3 and above.
Point of Contact: Mr.
George Poppe
Mustard
Seed Credit: None
Meeting
Times: Practice:
Thursdays: 2:30pm: Church
Minister
on Sundays at 10:00am: Church
Choir
– Contemporary Ensemble:
A group of young people and adults with interest in contemporary liturgical
music provides musical leadership at the 7:00pm Mass Sunday evenings.
This music is ideal for a variety of instruments as well as singers.
Point of Contact: Mr.
George Poppe
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour served
Meeting
Times: Minister
on Sundays at 7:00pm: Church
Confirmation: Preparation for the celebration of the
sacrament of Confirmation is a year long journey involving study, prayer and
service. This is a journey which our young people and their families take
together. The process has become a whole community catechetical experience,
wherein students of our parochial school and religious education program
prepare together. Their parents and sponsors are also full participants
in this process. Through the participation of Prayer Partners we are also
encouraging the parish at large to pray for the students on a regular
basis. Consult our website for the details of this comprehensive program
Point of Contact: Mr.
John Gillen
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours after participation in all Rites & Meetings
Meeting Time: Consult
web site and bulletin for specific details
Extraordinary
Ministers of Holy Communion:
Parishioners with a devotion to the Eucharist assist priests and deacons
distribute Communion at Mass or when visiting the homebound or
hospitalized. Candidates for this ministry must be a least 18 years old,
fully initiated (having received the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and
Holy Communion), and invited by the pastor to serve. A period of prayer
and discernment which includes spiritual, theological, and practical
instruction is required, and is followed by a mutual decision on the part of
the pastor and the candidate.
Point
of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour served
Meeting
Times: As
scheduled for Sunday and holy day Mass
First
Communion Parent Meeting:
A meeting required for one or both parents of children who are preparing to
receive the sacrament of First Communion this year. Parish staff will help
parents come to a deeper understanding of the significance of this sacrament in
their children's lives, and review the requirements and expectations for
participation in the First Communion Mass.
Holy
Hour: An hour of
peace, silence, and contemplative prayer in the presence of the Blessed
Sacrament consisting of scripture, preaching, and quiet prayer, ending with
Benediction.
Point of Contact: Deacon
Rich Mitchell
Mustard Seed Credit: One
hour
Meeting Times: First
Tuesday of each month
8:00
PM in the chapel.
Lectors:
Adults and teens who have
a love of scripture and a desire to share it are trained to proclaim the
readings at Sunday Mass and other parish liturgies. Lectors are scheduled in a
rotation through all Mass times. Four hours of training are provided.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard
Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour served
Meeting
Times: Schedules
are distributed regularly
Liturgy
Committee: The Liturgy
Committee is a group of interested parishioners, staff and clergy who are
responsible for carrying out and improving our community's worship and prayer
life. They plan prayer, music, and environment for the liturgical seasons
and develop and oversee many retreat experiences each year.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for the year
Meeting Times: Contact
Terri Miyamoto for specific schedule
Ministry
to Sick and Homebound:
Volunteer Communion Ministers share in the ministry of visiting the sick with
regular visits to those who are ill or homebound.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Cathy Koenig
Mustard Seed Credit: One
hour for each hour of service
Meeting Times: Schedules
are distributed regularly
Miraculous
Medal Novena: After the
8:15am and 9:00am Masses on Mondays.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Babs Thomasy
Mustard Seed Credit: None
Meeting Times: See
above.
Parish
Mission: An opportunity
to renew and deepen your faith with the parish community. The Redemptorists,
who are renowned for their preaching, will present a four evenings focusing on
hunger for God, reconciliation, and the Eucharist. The sacrament of
Reconciliation (confession) will be available following each session.
Children's mission for grades 1 through 7 will take place at the same time, so
parents are free to attend the mission.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each session
Meeting Time: November
3, 4, 5 and 6, at 7:30PM in the Church
Preparing
for Reconciliation: A
time for second graders and their parents to share prayer and learning about
the sacrament of Reconciliation and the role of forgiveness in our lives.
Attendance at one session is required for all students in St. Clare School or the religious education program who are preparing to receive the sacraments of
reconciliation and First Communion this year. The specific session will be
scheduled by class.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Jo Rossicone
Ms.
Jessica Heap
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting Time: November
8, 9:00AM or 1:00 PM, or
November
15, 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM, in the church
RCIA: Persons 16 years of age or
older. This is the process of bringing adults into full and active
membership into the Church. It is designed to address the needs of persons who
are not baptized, baptized in another Christian denomination or baptized
Catholics who never received First Eucharist or Confirmation. Inquiries
can be made at any regularly scheduled meeting. Come by and visit.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each hour of attendance
Meeting Times: Tuesdays,
8:00pm: Faith Formation Center
Retreat for Parents and Children – Communion of Saints: Come learn about the saints and
pray with the saints in our own lives. Space is limited, and registration is
required. Watch the bulletin or the parish web site www.stclaresi.com for more
information. (Open to 3rd & 4th Graders)
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 3
hours
Meeting Times: 10/25,
9:00am–11:30 am Faith Formation Center
Retreat for Parents & Children – Come to the Table: Explore with your child some of the
many facets of Holy Communion as memorial, banquet and food for the Christian
life. Space is limited and registration is required. Watch the bulletin or the
parish web site www.stclaresi.com for
more information. (Open to 1st & 2nd Graders)
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 3
hours
Meeting Times: 3/21,
9:00am–11:30am Faith Formation Center
Retreat for Senior Citizens: A day for seniors to reflect on
their unique stage in life with others from the parish. Space is limited and
registration is required. Watch the bulletin or the parish web site www.stclaresi.com for more information.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 4
hours
Meeting Time: 5/13:
11:00am–3:00pm Faith Formation Center
St.
Anthony Novena: Thirteen
Tuesdays prior to June 13 after the 7:00am, 8:15am and 9:00am Masses.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Babs Thomasy
Mustard Seed Credit: None
Meeting Times: See
Above
Thought
for the Day: The parish
of St. Clare is blessed with a wealth of people with much to share. Many of
them volunteer to write a thought or prayer on occasion, so we can offer a
daily reflection. These prayers are available on our web page, through a daily
email, or on the telephone at (718) 303-7049. We are always looking for new
contributors who can give us new perspectives and insight. The only experience
required is your life; we will help you as much as you like.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Terri Miyamoto
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each completed submission
Meeting Times: See
the Thought for the Day calendar on our website (www.stclaresi.com) for available dates.
Ushers:
Ministers of Hospitality:
Help parishioners feel welcomed in the Church, assist in maintaining order,
receive the offerings of the faithful and help in any emergency situation. Open
to men and women, teens and older.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Cathy Feeks
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each hour of service.
Meeting Times: Sunday
Masses, Holy Days, and Special Occasions
Youth and Family
Ministries
Advent
Jesse Tree Celebration:
Families are invited to participate in a pizza dinner. After dinner,
children will create their own ornaments for a parish Jesse Tree.
Children in Pre-K and older are encouraged to participate with their
parent(s). Watch for registration details online and in the parish
bulletin.
Point of Contact: Mr.
John Gillen
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting Times: 12/11
at 6:00 – 8:00pm - Faith Formation Center
Birth
Celebrations: This joyous
blessing is designed for new babies and their families, and includes a
welcoming into the St. Clare’s Parish community, as well as a reception.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Catherine Adinolfi
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting Times: 9/8,
4/6 10:30am - 12:00pm
Chapel and Faith Formation Center
Book
Club: The Book Club meets
Mondays at 8:30am in the Pastoral Center to discuss books that interest the
group. New groups will be formed at different times if there is interest. For
more information leave a message for Lisa O’Donnell at (718) 984-7873.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Lisa O’Donnell
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour
Meeting Times: Mondays,
8:30am Pastoral Center
College
and Young Adults Programs: Occasionally,
SCYM offers events for our college students and young adults. An attempt
is made to schedule these events around college recess or vacations.
Consult the parish bulletin or website for information.
Since we welcome suggestions for events
on/off parish properties, please contact our Youth Minister, Mr. John Gillen if you are interested in arranging for an event, whether it be spiritual or social
in nature.
Periodically, Catholic Young Adults of the
Archdiocese of New York sponsors events for this age group. Information
will be posted on the parish website as news of these events is received.
Point of Contact: Mr.
John Gillen
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each hour served
Meeting Times: TBA
Expectant
Parents Masses: This
special liturgy and blessing is for all expectant parents and their families,
followed by a reception.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Catherine Adinolfi
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting Times: 10/4,
5/9: 5:00pm Mass w/
Refreshments
following in the Pastoral Center
Family
Christmas Karaoke:
The annual Christmas Caroling has been suspended this year to introduce a new
activity at Saint Clare’s – FAMILY KARAOKE. Families and
parishioners are invited to the School Cafeteria immediately following the 5pm
Mass for some Christmas Karaoke and lots of fun. Each family is asked to
bring a Christmas dessert for sharing at your table. Lemonade, Iced Tea,
and Water will be provided.
Point
of Contact: Mr.
John Gillen
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting Times: 12/20 at 6:00pm – School Cafeteria
Family
Style Stations of the Cross:
Families are invited to participate in a pizza dinner. After dinner,
children will create their own Stations of the Cross booklet which will be used
afterwards in the praying of the Stations in the chapel. Children in
Pre-K and older are encouraged to participate with their parent(s).Watch for
registration details online and in the parish bulletin.
Point of Contact: Mr.
John Gillen
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting Times: 3/26
at 6:00 – 8:00pm - Faith Formation Center
Growing
With Your Pre-Teen: This
three-session seminar is designed for parents and their 5th and 6th grade
children to attend together, in order to promote communication and mutual
problem-solving in a supportive and positive setting.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Cathy Adinolfi
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for attendance at all sessions
Meeting Times: 3/2,
3/9, 3/16 from 7:00 - 8:30pm
Musical
Theatre: Saint
Clare’s has been blessed with many young actors and
actresses. Since 2001, the Saint Clare’s Musical Theatre
Group (SCMT) has amazed audiences with their yearly summer musicals. In
2006 the group expanded for a rendition of Jesus’ Passion in the Good
Friday “Living Stations.” Opportunities for participation
– both in front of the curtain, and behind the scenes will become available
in late spring.
Point of Contact: Ms.
Marissa Gallo
Mustard
Seed Credit: 5
hours for all full time members cast and crew.
Meeting
Times: As
announced in bulletin/on website
Parentcare: These classes form the foundation of our
Family Ministry program. Classes are designed for the mutual education,
support, and socialization of parents and children. Babysitting is provided by
“grandmas” of the parish.
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Cathy Adinolfi
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each hour attended
Meeting Times: Mondays,
10:00am - 3:00pm
(Call regarding appropriate
groups)
Scouts
- Boy Scout Troop 41 is a
program for boys age 11 to 18 that teaches self reliance and to become
responsible members of the community. Meetings are on Fridays at 7:30pm in the
school auditorium.
Points of Contact: Mr.
Rich Ricco - Scoutmaster
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated leaders and assistants
Meeting Times: Ages
6-8 - meet on Tuesdays at 4:00pm.
Ages 9-11 - meet on Fridays at 8:00pm.
Ages 12-18 - meet on Fridays
at 7:30pm.
Scouts
- Cub Scout Pack 41 is
for boys from 1st grade through 5th grade. Meetings are approximately one hour
per week. We also meet one Friday a month for a Pack Meeting, where the boys
receive awards for achievements accomplished. Cub Scouts consist of Tigers,
Cubs and Webelos.
At the monthly Pack Meetings besides
giving out awards, we celebrate the holiday of the month. Parents and siblings
are invited to join in the fun. It gives parents an opportunity to meet and get
to know each other and the leaders.
The younger boys do arts and crafts, and
occasionally go on trips. Each child must have a parent or guardian
accompany him on the trip. Junior and senior Webelos go on camping trips
and hikes, as they prepare to become boy scouts. They learn much about the
outdoors, and how to work with each other as a team.
Our summertime activities include a picnic at
Miller Field, and summer camp.
Point of Contact: Mr.
& Mrs. Fred Avitto
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated leaders and assistants
Meeting Times: Tuesdays 4:00
- 5:00pm School Cafeteria
Fridays 7:30
- 9:30pm School Cafeteria
Scouts
- Girl Scouts: The
Girl Scout Program provides girls with an opportunity to have fun and build
friendships while learning the importance of personal responsibility, the value
of goal-setting, the spirit of teamwork, and the thrill of accomplishment.
Daisies - Kindergarten Brownies
- 1st, 2nd, 3rd grades
Juniors - 4th, 5th, 6th grades Cadettes
- 7th, 8th grades
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Karen Lawrence
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated leaders and assistants
Meeting
Times: Twice
a month on Fridays 2:30 - 4:00pm.
Souper
Bowl of Caring: St.
Clare’s participates in the National Souper Bowl of Caring program each
year on Super Bowl Sunday. At all Masses, monetary donations are placed
in the giant football to send towards the national collection. Volunteers
are needed to assist with the promotion and collection aspects.
Point of Contact: Mr.
John Gillen
Mustard Seed Credit: 1
hour for each hour served
Meeting Times: Weekend
of February 1st
Please
make contact prior to assist at a Mass
Sports -
Baseball: Boys
Grades 1 - 2: Intramural program
Grades
3 - 8: CYO
Registration:
Fall 2008
Point of Contact: Mr.
Tony Antonacci
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated coaches and assistants
Meeting Times: Sports
Season: April – June
Sports
- Basketball: Boys Grade
1 - 2: Clinic available
Grade 3 - 8: Clinic,
Intramural, CYO
Tryouts
- September
Registration
– September
Point of Contact: Mr.
John Imbesi
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated coaches and assistants
Meeting Times: Sports
Season - Intramural: October - March
CYO: November - March
Girls Grades 1 - 2: Clinic
available
Grades 3 - 8: Clinic,
Intramural, CYO
Tryouts
- September
Registration
– September
Point of Contact: Mr.
John Imbesi
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated coaches and assistants
Meeting Times: Sports
Season - September - March
Sports
- Cheerleading: Debs
cheer for Grades 4 - 6 CYO Boys' basketball home games. On occasion they cheer
at away games in neighboring parishes. Cheerleading competition is in
March. Debs Girls - Grades 4 – 6 Tryouts held in May following
a multi-day clinic Registration - September (for those selected in May)
Point of Contact: Mrs.
Pam Cupo
Mustard Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated coaches and assistants
Meeting
Time: Season:
September – March
Sports
- Softball: Girls Grades
5 - 6: CYO
Grades 7 - 8: CYO
Registration:
February/March
Point of Contact: Mr.
Tony Antonacci
Mustard
Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated coaches and assistants.
Meeting
Times: Sports
Season: April - June
Sports
- Swimming: Boys and
Girls Grades 1 - 8
Low pressure introduction to
competitive swimming
Place: Staten Island Aquatics
Registration: February and
on-going
Point of Contact:
Mustard
Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated coaches and assistants
Meeting
Times: Sports
Season - February - June
Sports
- Track: Girls:
Grade 1 - 8
Boys: Grade 2 - 8
Registration: On-going
Point of Contact: Jim
Hughes, Mary Papandrea, & Frank Vellucci
Mustard
Seed Credit: 5
hours for designated coaches and assistants.
Meeting
Times: Sports
Season - Fall - cross country
Special
Events
Blood
Drive: Held twice a year, in December and
in July. Donors must be 17-75, weigh at least 110 lbs and be in good health.
Point of Contact: Mr.
Tom Binder
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours for all blood donors.
1 hour for each hour of
service for volunteers.
Meeting Times: As
announced in the bulletin
Parish
Dance: A yearly event
held in the Cardinal Cooke Center.
Point of Contact: Mr.
Anthony Cimaglia
Mustard Seed Credit: Dance
Committee: 5 hours
Volunteer
Assistants: 1 hour for each hour of service.
Meeting Times: Dance
Committee: 10/2, 11/6, 1/15, 2/12, 3/11, 4/8:
7:30 – 9:00pm: Presentation Center
Parish Dance: 3/28: 8:00pm - Cardinal Cooke Center:
Seamless
Garment Celebration: A
celebration of life from womb to tomb on the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade
decision. Celebrations will be held in the parish church and a youth rally will
take place in the Cardinal Cooke Center.
Point of Contact: Mr.
Fred Herron
Mustard Seed Credit: 2
hours
Meeting Time: 1/22
at 7:30pm in Church
Parish
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