Pastor's Page
January 10, 2023
I'm glad to announce that we have new President and Vice-President of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), Pat Narango and Judi McBee, respectively. They will serve for two years and can be reelected or appointed by the Pastor. The PPC serves as the "mother" of all existing parish ministries and replaces the existing Liturgy Committee. The first PPC meeting shall be announced later once the date is determined. Finally, I am thankful to those who submitted themselves for the nomination and the election. Your unceasing support to our parish is greatly appreciated. God bless you and your families.
January 8, 2023
In the morning of January 2nd, the Vicar General of the diocese has called me to inform this servant of yours that I was elected in the late December 2022 as the new member of the Presbyteral Council of the Diocese. This Senate of Priests will help and assist the bishop in his pastoral ministry and will coordinate with the planning and implementation of some diocesan programs and activities that are beneficial for the people in parishes, vicariates, and the diocese as a whole. So, please pray for me as I start this another task this year in my pastoral ministry. Thank you!
January 3, 2023
On December 14, 2022, the bishop had canonically and officially appointed me Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, the current parish of which I am serving under the title of Administrator. This is in accordance with Canon 522 that a Pastor is canonically in possession of the said parish with certain canonical rights and privileges. In light of this canonical appointment, there will be a proper public liturgical ceremony of installation of pastor, which will be presided by the Vicar Forane of the Martinsburg Vicariate. The date of the Mass for the Installation of Pastor shall be held in March 2023; once the date is determined, I will announce it as soon as possible. Below is the list of the newly appointed pastors:
Father Dominikus Baok, S.V.D., is appointed pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Montgomery, St. Anthony Shrine Mission in Boomer, and Good Shepherd Chapel in East Bank, effective immediately.
Father Aloysius Boh is appointed pastor of St. Bernadette Parish in Hedgesville, effective immediately.
Father Binu Emmanuel, C.S.T., is appointed pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Mannington and St. Peter Parish in Farmington, effective immediately.
Father J. Michael O. Lecias is appointed pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Berkeley Springs, effective immediately.
Father Shinto Mathew is appointed pastor of St. John Parish in St. Marys, Christ Our Hope Mission in Harrisville (currently operating at St. Joseph Chapel, Pennsboro), and St. Joseph Chapel in Pennsboro, effective immediately.
Father Biju Parampil is appointed pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Logan, St. Edmund Chapel in Man, and Sacred Heart Parish in Williamson, effective immediately.
Father L.J. Asantha Jude Perera, T.O.R., is appointed pastor of St. Anthony Parish in Follansbee, effective immediately.
Father Daniel Price is appointed pastor of Annunciation of Our Lord Parish in Fort Ashby and St. Anthony Parish in Ridgeley, effective immediately.
Father S. Kumar Reddimasu is appointed pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Stonewood, effective immediately.
Father Thomas A. Sebastian, C.S.T., is appointed pastor of Assumption Parish in Keyser and Our Lady of Grace Parish in Romney, effective immediately.
Father Martin Smay is appointed pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Thomas and Our Lady of Mercy Mission in Parsons, effective immediately.
Father Edward A. Tetteh, S.V.D., is appointed pastor of Holy Rosary Parish in Buckhannon and Sacred Heart Chapel in Pickens, effective immediately.
Father Shaji Jacob Thomas is appointed pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Huntington and St. Peter Claver Parish in Huntington, effective immediately.
In consultation with Bishop James Thoppil of the Diocese of Kohima, India, Father Sojan Xavier is appointed administrator of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in St. Albans with residence in St. Albans, effective immediately.
December 30, 2022
Parish Pastoral Council Nominees for the Positions of President and Vice-President for a 2-Year Period:
Patty Brooks
John Gasch
Karen Gilbert
Dee Fournier
Victor Franco
Larry Landon
Judi McBee
Pat Narango
Angela O'Connell
Mike Stanger
Patrick McBee
Bob Williams
Dawn Roper
December 29, 2022
A Blessed New Year to All!
They say, "Time Flies" and, indeed, yes! The year 2023 is upon us, another year to be grateful to God for giving us another chance to be better Christians. Therefore, we should take it seriously upon ourselves as to how we can live out the gifts that are in store for us in the coming year. I guess we should use our prudent judgment in guiding us through the challenges that we may encounter along the way, knowing as well that God has equipped us with the necessary grace to enable us to be successful in whatever we do for the glory of His Name on earth. Let us not forget that we are not alone in this journey of faith, whether it may be sweet or bitter, easy or difficult, Jesus Christ, the Emmanuel, is with us. This alone should give us comfort and assurance that we can face this new year with spiritual virtues and upright attitudes.
Also, I welcome Fr. Jack Lombardi who is coming back to our area to be the pastor of Sts. Peter and Patrick Parish in Hancock, MD. To start his new year and his ministry, he will celebrate Mass at our parish on Sunday, January 1, 2023 at 9:00am. Let us welcome, Fr. Jack.
December 22, 2022
Greetings of Peace!
Christmas is here again. God is reminding us again through the birth of His Son, Jesus Christ, that we are not forgotten, that we are blessed beyond our imagination. With such a reminder, it is just proper to respond generously to what God has given us. How? By being generous with our time to others, especially to our families and friends including those who have no one to care for them. What a gift it is to others when you give and let them feel the sense of belonging.
With the advent of social media where it seems to offer easy connection, it has, in fact, created a sense of isolation from each other even among family members. It has failed to truly connect people in a profound way. For example, a person is paying more attention to his or her cellphone rather than paying attention to a personal encounter where true conversation could happen. Isolating oneself is a manifestation of being unwelcoming to the presence of another; it is a way of closing the inner inn of one's heart, which reminds us of the situation where the Baby Jesus was isolated from the hearts of men and women when there was no room in the inn.
Therefore, let us remind ourselves this Christmas season to create a space, an inner room in the inn of our hearts where we can accommodate those who are isolated. And so, let us be mindful of those within our families, parish and community who are looking for an inn to stay.
Merry Christmas!
December 21, 2022
On the weekend of January 7-8, 2023, at the end of each Mass, all parishioners shall elect the President and Vice-President of the newly established Parish Pastoral Council. Ballots shall be distributed at the end of the Mass by the ushers. The person who gets the highest number of votes shall be the president and the second highest number of votes shall be the vice-president. The Secretary shall be elected or appointed by the members on the Parish Pastoral Council during the first meeting in 2023, which will be determined later.
The term of office for said positions is 2 years, and can be reelected or reappointed by the pastor as deemed necessary. The list of nominees shall be published in in the bulletin and on this page soon.
December 8, 2022
Our Advent Penance Service is on Tuesday, December 20th, at 5:00pm. Please, please make an effort to go to the Sacrament of Holy Confession to avail the sacramental grace this Christmas season.
July 23, 2022
As per guidance from the Diocese, our parish here at St. Vincent de Paul in Berkeley Springs, is declared as "A Place of Christ's Peace" where "No Firearms and Weapons are Allowed" inside the Church. As we come to church, we come with peace in our hearts and minds offering worthy homage and worship to the God of Peace whose Son is sent to us, Jesus Christ, the King of Peace! I also appeal to all people, especially our beloved parishioners, to never stop praying for the end of violence in our society and in our world. To end any violence, it must start and come from within us where we allow Jesus Christ to reign in our life. Peace be with you!
July 22, 2022
Starting Tuesday, August 9, 2022, the Mass will be at 12:00Noon every Tuesday to accommodate those who are unable to attend the Mass at 7:00pm, which is our current schedule. To reiterate, there will be no Mass at 7:00pm on Tuesdays starting August 9th. Hoping to have more people attending.
June 24, 2022
Statement of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston regarding the USSC decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston applauds the Supreme Court’s decision today in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. While this decision will offer greater protection for the unborn in some parts of the country, we call upon Catholics throughout the diocese to continue to foster a genuine respect for all human life throughout our country.
Now more than ever, we must show our fellow citizens that we are both pro-child and pro- woman. The diocese continues to offer positive help to pregnant women in our state. We have outreach centers for pregnant women, counseling services to help women respect and cherish their unborn child, and outreach centers that provide parenting classes, baby clothes, diapers, and formula for mothers in need.
But our work is certainly not done. We must continue to strive to foster a culture of life in our society. We must strive ever more ardently to respect all life, from conception to natural death. This respect cannot be just for babies in the womb and their mothers. So too must we respect children in schools, those who attend churches, even those who just go to grocery stores to buy food—that they may do these things without threat of violence against them. We must show our respect for all life by working to drive out racism and gun violence from our midst.
Every life is a gift from God. Every life is precious and deserves our respect and help. I call on all West Virginia residents to work together toward fostering a culture of life in the Mountain State.
+Mark E. Brennan
Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston
June 22, 2022
Please join me in praying the Holy Rosary at the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes this Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 3:00PM, for the following intentions: sanctity of marriage, end of violence in our society, defense of human life, and the end of abortion. Please bring your own lawn chair and umbrella. See you there!
June 4, 2022
The Annual Priest Retreat for all priests in the diocese is this coming June 6-10, 2022 at Stonewall Resort, Roanoke, WV. Therefore, No Weekday Masses during this retreat.
April 6, 2022
Just to remind all parishioners that we have special collection taken up each year on Good Friday (The Pontifical Good Friday Collection for the Holy Land). This annual collection not only supports the Holy Places, but above all provides for those pastoral, charitable, educational, and social works, which the Church supports in the Holy Land for the welfare of the Christian brethren and of the local communities. "Moreover, for two consecutive years, the Christians of the Holy Land have celebrated Easter and Christmas in a sort of isolation, without the warmth and solidarity of pilgrims visiting the Holy Places and local communities. Families have suffered beyond measure, more from the lack of work than from the immediate effects of the pandemic itself. It is by the express wish of the Popes that the collection "Pro Terra Sancta" was begun and continues to be taken up on the day of the saving Passion of our Lord, Good Friday. It is not something ancient or outdated, because it expresses above all our awareness of being rooted in the proclamation of redemption, which spread from Jerusalem and reached us all. The gesture of offering, even a small one, but by everyone, like the widow's mite, allows our brothers and sisters to continue to live, to hope and to offer a living witness to the Word made flesh in places and on the streets that saw his presence."
February 14, 2022
Every First Saturday of the Month, we will pray the Living Rosary in front of the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes outside the Church at 3:00PM, an hour before the Vigil Mass. Please join us as we constantly pray for the end of abortion, for the protection of life in all its stages, for global peace, and for all the sick and suffering in our world. Please bring your Rosary and your lawn chair; prayer guides shall be provided. See you at the Grotto!
February 3, 2022
Feast of Saints Blaise and Ansgar
West Virginia is a Pro-Life State. WV believes in the God-given gift of freedom to live in all stages of life. Therefore, each human being has been given also the solemn duty to protect and defend each one's life including the life of the unborn. No malicious and prideful human decision must be above God's divine will for all human beings to live in the world created by God. All life exists in genuflection to God's omnipotent power that makes His providential care so alive and experiential in our daily lives.
As Catholics who believe in the value and preciousness of human life given by God, as your pastor, I ask all Catholic members of St. Vincent de Paul Parish to please join me in praying the Living Holy Rosary outside the church or in front of the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 3:00PM, the time when our Lord Jesus breathed His last so as to give us life. This is also right in time after the day when we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes on Friday, February 11, 2022.
Let us constantly pray for the end of the evil of abortion. Let us pray for some of our state legislators who are proposing anti-life, therefore, anti-Christ measures, in our beloved pro-life State of West Virginia, that they may have conversion of hearts, that they may abandon any legislative measures that are inimical to the principles of life and liberty, and that they may instead help promote and protect life in all its stages.
February 3, 2022
Feast of Saints Blaise and Ansgar
On Monday, February 7, 2022, at 9:00AM, Bishop Mark Brennan, Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, will speak at the rally along with fellow West Virginians in Charleston for the Pro-Life Day. Those who will be present at the rally will be introduced in the House/Senate Galleries when sessions begin at 11:00AM. I will be attending the rally for life.
December 31, 2021
The year 2022 is in our midst, another year of blessings from God despite the pandemic and other challenges we had this past year 2021. As people of faith, we are looking forward this year to be full of hope, faith and love, and to be always joyful knowing that Christ Jesus is with us, the Emmanuel. Let us be reminded that God is always faithful to us and this should make us faithful as well to His loving care. And so I wish you a happy and blessed New Year 2022, that all of your loved ones are safe and sound in God's grace. I hope to see you at the church often this year.
December 25, 2021
On behalf of the parish staff, I wish you and your family a Happy and Blessed Christmas. May the joy that Baby Jesus brings reside in your hearts and homes today and always. God bless you all!
December 10, 2021
On this Memorial of the Our Lady of Loreto, I am pleased to announce that our new Parish Director of Religious Education is Judi McBee. I am grateful that she is willing to serve our parish in this capacity aside from other liturgical ministries that she has already been involved with. When you see her, please let her know that she is greatly appreciated. Thank you so much, Judi.
November 23, 2021
I'm sad to announce the death of Anne Marie Burnette, our parish Director of Religious Education, who had been so instrumental in shaping our CCD class these past two years. She had been very helpful and active in our parish ministries and would not even mind cleaning the church with or without companions. Surely as a parish, we will miss Anne and her active involvement in all areas of parish ministries in whatever way she could. In particular, we will miss her leading and reciting in our midst the Holy Rosary before the weekend Mass.
Rest in peace, Anne. May the intercession of our Blessed Mother and all the Saints be upon you. May you enjoy in the loving embrace of our God Almighty in heaven.
October 26, 2021
There have been a lot of good things going on in our parish recently where we saw a lot of people getting and being involved in accomplishing our corporal works of mercy to achieve our common parish goal, that was, to make our parish alive again despite of the threat of the pandemic, many people have stepped up to contribute their talents, time and treasure. It would be too much if I would mention all in this message but I would like to highlight the works of some parish ministries we have.
Recently, we finished the first batch of lectors who joined the Lector's Conference facilitated by Judi McBee and we had another batch last October 23, 2021. Those new and old lectors will be officially installed according to the Rite of the Installation of Lector in the Church at all Masses this coming Saturday and Sunday, November 6 and 7, 2021, respectively.
Last month, we finished our Wall Project by fixing it from almost falling as it was badly as dangerous as it could cause a fatal accident if left unattended. Thank you to Mike Stanger and Pat Narango for spearheading it along with the members of the K of C. This project would have not been finished without the generous support of all parishioners who contributed money to meet our goal of $8,000 to finish the wall.
The parish picnic this year was a great success held at Cacapon State Park. Our parish kids enjoyed their games and many of our parishioners brought their special home baked goodies and dishes to be shared for all. In the same way, the K of C had sponsored two different Pool Parties for parishioners at the Berkeley Springs Pool Park where many of our kids and families enjoyed together. Of course, the food was so delicious.
Lately, our K of C did a recruitment weekend last October 23-24, 2021 in all Masses when our Grand Knight Pat Narango received the Star Award that was presented by our District Deputy Skipper Price and Assistant District Deputy Mike Stanger. The award was a sign of their great works of charity, fraternity and unity. However, to my surprise, the K of C also gave me an Award of Fidelity in recognition of my pastoral leadership, which of course I feel unworthy to receive such an award as I am a daily construction of God. So, I offer this award to all parishioners for their support and prayers to my ministry. I am sincerely grateful for this award.
Finally, I would like to thank all people who helped and still helping in all our parish ministries. To all volunteers who work anytime and all the time without asking any human recognition, I am truly grateful. May God always shower you with his blessings. God bless you.
October 23, 2021
1.) All are invited to attend and pray the Holy Rosary for America in front of the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at 4:00pm to be followed by Vigil Mass at 5:00pm. This prayer is in consonance with the culmination of the Holy Rosary Month of October. Prayer guides and rosaries will be provided.
2.) Masses on the Solemnity of All Saints and for All Souls Day are the following:
All Saints Day Mass: Monday, November 1, 2021 at 5:00pm (Holy Day of Obligation)
All Souls Day Mass: Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at 5:00pm
3.) Also, the days are getting darker as we approach the Daylight Saving Time. Therefore, our Vigil Masses during this time will be at 4:00pm starting Saturday, November 13, 2021; Confession starts at 3:30pm until 4:50pm.
4.) The Rite of Installation of Lectors will on the weekend of November 6 and 7, 2021, respectively, or at every Mass on Saturday at 5:00pm and Sunday at 9:00am.
August 23, 2021
"Queen Esther" Bus Trip
What: "Queen Esther" Musical Show
When: Saturday, October 2, 2021
Where: Sight & Sound Theater in Lancaster, PA
Departure Venue: St. Vincent de Paul Parking Lot
Departure Time: 8:00AM
Price per Person: $140.00 (includes roundtrip bus fare, buffet lunch and show ticket)
Please call the office at (304)258-1311 to reserve your spot. First come, first serve as the bus only has 55 seats available. Make checks payable to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church with "Queen Esther" in the memo line. Thank you.
July 16, 2021
Please put in your calendar the following parish activities:
Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10am-12noon: New and Old Lectors' Workshop at the Church
Sunday, August 22, 2021 at 1pm-4pm: Annual Parish Picnic at Cacapon State Park CCC Pavilion
September 18-19, 2021: Installation of New and Old Lectors at Masses on Saturday and Sunday (Postponed until futher notice)
Sunday, September 19, 2021: Catechetical Sunday and the Beginning of CCD Class
June 27, 2021
Our parish is in need of the following volunteers:
Lectors
Altar Servers both young and adults
Ushers
Church cleaners
Please call the office for more information. Thank you.
June 27, 2021
Our parish will conduct a workshop for those who may be interested in becoming a Lector. The theme of this workshop is: "Love and Proclaim: Scripture and Lay Readers at Mass" will be facilitated by Judy McBee, our Ministry of Lectors Committee Chairperson. Such workshop is free of charge, which will be on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10:00am-12:00pm. Those interested, please call the office.
March 5, 2021
I'm inviting all parishioners to please attend every Friday during Lent the Stations of the Cross at 5:30pm preceded by the Sacrament of Confession at 5:00pm. Before the Stations of the Cross, there is a short Lenten Reflection on the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the Cross, which would correspond every Last Word to each Friday leading to the last Friday within the Holy Week. Please make this penitential sacrifice of the Stations of the Cross as part of your act of penance.
Also, here is the schedule during Holy Week/Triduum:
Palm Sunday Masses: Saturday Vigil, March 27: Mass at 5:00pm
Sunday, March 28: Mass at 9:00am
Holy Thursday, April 1: Last Supper Mass/Washing of the Feet at 6:00pm
Vigil at the Altar of Repose 7:00pm-9:00pm
Good Friday, April 2: Veneration of the Cross at 6:00pm
Holy Saturday, April 3: Easter Vigil Mass at 8:00pm
Easter Sunday, April 4: Easter Sunday Mass at 9:00am
January 30, 2021
Ash Wednesday is coming up, which will be on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, and our only Mass that day is at 5:00pm. The imposition of ashes shall be sprinkled only on top of the head; no more marking of ashes on the forehead due to the pandemic. As a way of our penance, fasting, abstinence and alms giving during this day as well as in all Fridays during Lent, including the Good Friday, are highly encouraged. Also, our Stations of the Cross every Friday during Lent is at 5:30pm inside the Church.
December 26, 2020
The schedule of Masses for the Solemnity of the Mother of God (Theotokos) or the New Year are the following:
December 31, 2020: New Year's Eve Mass at 8:00pm
January 1, 2021: New Year's Day Mass at 10:00am
December 16, 2020
Due to the inclement weather today, our Advent Penance Service is CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Thank you for understanding.
December 1, 2020
December 8, 2020 is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a Holy Day of Obligation for all Catholics. Therefore, our Mass that day is at 5:00pm.
Also, the Advent Penance is scheduled on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at 5:30pm. We have a couple of priests helping us out to hear Confession. Please take this opportunity to avail the Holy Sacrament of Confession as we prepare for the coming of the Lord Jesus.
November 23, 2020
The Mass for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, November 26th, will be at 10:00am. The bulletin said at 9am but it was a typo. Our apology for the error.
October 27, 2020
The Daylight Saving Time will take effect this November 1, 2020. Therefore, the schedule for the entire Winter season for our Saturday Vigil Mass starting this Saturday, November 7, 2020, will be at 4:00pm, while Confession is at 3:30pm. Please be guided accordingly.
September 24, 2020
On behalf of the parish, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolence to Lu Byrne, the wife of the late Dick Byrne. Dick has been our parish bookkeeper for many years. Dick's service to the parish has been tremendous and his love and passion for his faith was beyond question. Surely we will miss him. Let us pray for his repose and for peace and consolation for the Byrne's family.
August 3, 2020
It has been a few months already that we have been hit by the pandemic, which in a way has changed our way of worship and even has stopped some to go to church on weekend. But based on our experience this time in our parish, by observing proper protocols, I can say that it is safer to attend the weekend Mass particularly to those who are healthy enough to get around. If you are able to get out of the house and go to malls, grocery stores and parks, maybe you can also go to the church to worship for an hour. Unless you are physically frail, elderly or at the very young age who are so vulnerable to a disease, you can stay at home and attend the online Masses. In short, weekend worship is safer and the church building is disinfected every other Friday, and people during Mass are asked to observe the physical distancing, to wear mask and to sanitize their hands. So, please come back to the Sunday worship...the Lord is waiting for you.
July 12, 2020
I have to reiterate that wearing mask inside the church building and the parish office is a must. Holding it with your hand does not constitute proper way of wearing it; you are still not wearing it. In fairness to all, I would like all parishioners at Mass to wear it while the Mass is ongoing and while inside the church building and the office. Also, it is still not allowed to congregate or socialize before and after the Mass at the gathering hall. Please observe this protocol religiously for the safety of all. Thank you.
June 26, 2020
For the fourth time, our parish will be distributing gallons of fresh milk for free to all who want them this coming Saturday, June 27th, at 6:00pm in front of the church. Please stop by and pick up yours. On the other hand, our church has been disinfected this Friday to ensure the safety of our parishioners; we did it every other Friday since the reopening of the church. In a special way, I'm grateful to Mike Stanger for leading the way in this effort.
June 8, 2020
Once again, our parish will distribute the 4,000 gallons of fresh milk to anyone who wants it this Saturday, June 13th, at 6pm in front of the church. I would like to thank Dawn Roper and Skipper Price for helping in distribution, and for Dawn to secure the apples for distribution as well.
June 5, 2020
Ten years ago, June 5, 2010, I made a promise to embrace the life of priesthood in and of Jesus Christ
at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Wheeling. Indeed, time flies when I don't think of it but how short and quick it is when I reflect of God's eternity, that despite His being God, He allows me, the imperfect, to share in the life of His Son's priestly ministry. Therefore, it is through His daily grace that sustains me in my journey, so I thank my Almighty God for this special gift, in the Priesthood of Jesus Christ the Savior. And to the People of God, thank you very much for your prayers and support.
June 4, 2020
According to Deacon Dave, the fresh milk will arrive at our parish this Saturday, June 6, 2020, between 9am-11am. If you want, feel free to come and take it for free.
June 3, 2020
Deacon Dave Galvin from St. James Parish in Charles Town, WV is bringing to our parish either Friday or Saturday 4,000 gallons of fresh milk to be distributed to people in our area and if you need milk you can also pick it up. We might be doing this throughout the month of June this year depending on the supplier. For more information, please call the office during office hours.
June 3, 2020
We belong to one race, that is, the human race. What makes this race precious is that it is endowed with intellect and will that no other beings have possessed. As St. Thomas Aquinas said, "Man is the crown of God's creation," which means all of us are equal before the Lord, that our colors, black or white or brown, do not matter. Being a precious race, man is capable of achieving human justice and fairness in his earthly life that reflects the Divine Justice and once this ability to reflect is being put aside human society is in danger, if not, unrest, riots, and violence would take over. The sense of profound reflection into the meaningful nature of human person and his or her dignity must be enabled in one's personal life so as one's character is being led into living or leading a life of order, beauty, peace, and harmony. Bringing back into our consciousness the sense of reality as to why we are precious among the rest of God's creation is a way to help us realize that as "being made in the image and likeness of God" we have an inalienable "birth mark," that is Human Dignity. It is that human dignity that allows us to promote justice and fairness, growth and development, peace and harmony, security and solidarity, and especially equality as we are colorless before the presence of God.
May 31, 2020
What a wonderful weekend for our parish as we baptized our catechumen, Linda Juergensen, and received into Full Communion into the Catholic Faith, Josh Amos, in the presence of their catechists and godparents and the whole community. Also following was their Confirmation. My sincere gratitude to Bob and Eun Yea Williams for providing spiritual guidance and catechetical instruction to our catechumen and candidate.
May 31, 2020
Due to a few number of attendance at Saturday Vigil Mass at 7:00pm and Sunday at 12noon Mass, I have decided to eliminate the same schedule of Masses starting this weekend of June 6-7, 2020. Our normal schedule now is back to Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00pm and Sunday Mass at 9:00am. On the side note, I cannot emphasize enough that we are REQUIRED UNTIL LIFTED to wear mask at all times during Mass, sanitize our hands upon entry, record our names and contact number upon entry, maintain social distancing, and wipe the area of the pew where you sat on after Mass with disinfecting wet wipes. Thank you for your compliance.
May 28, 2020
Because of Covid-19, the CCD Class for our children for the remainder of this year shall be cancelled. It is my pastoral duty to put our children to safety. Although they may miss their Sunday school, parents catechetically speaking are the first and primary teachers of faith. Undoubtedly, parents will continue doing this role at home especially in this time of pandemic. But if you need some help as to the materials for catechetical instruction, don't hesitate to call the office or call directly our DRE for guidance. On the other hand, the Nazareth House will reopen Tuesday, June 2, from 10:00am-2:00pm, Tuesday and Friday.
May 22, 2020
The Rite of Baptism for the Elect and the Reception of Candidate into Full Communion into the Catholic Church for the Candidate shall be administered on Pentecost Sunday, May 31, 2020, at 9am Mass. Wearing mask and social distancing shall strictly be observed.
May 21, 2020
The group of volunteers will be at the church on Friday, May 22, to clean and to help disinfect the church and offices to get ready for the reopening of public Sunday Masses this weekend. If you can help, please be there at 8:30am. With regard to the north side parking lot of the church, half of which shall be used by the County Farmer's Market. As you park, please park your car facing the courthouse so that spaces can accommodate more cars, and please park properly.
May 18, 2020
On May 18th, 2009, eleven years ago, I was ordained to the Order of Deacon. How quick the time, how long the eternity. Please pray for me always. Today also is the birthday of St. Pope John Paul II the Great. Let's pray that he will continue to intercede for us.
May 18, 2020
For your benefit, here are the "opening days" for Sunday Masses in our neighboring dioceses:
Archdiocese of Baltimore: May 30-31, 2020 "at the pastor's discretion"
Archdiocese of Washington: May 30-31
Diocese of Arlington: May 16-17 (outside of Northern Virginia), while in Northern Virginia, not before May 30.
Diocese of Richmond: May 23-24 except the City of Richmond
Diocese of Pittsburgh: June 6-7
Diocese of Greensburg: no date set yet; June likely.
Bishop Brennan said: "As a sign of our Catholic faith in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and especially in thanksgiving for our people being able to receive the Lord in that sacrament again after being deprived of it for an extended period of time, I would strongly urge all of our parishes to have a public Eucharistic procession on Corpus Christi Sunday, June 13-14. Social distancing would have to be maintained and masks worn but it is a beautiful way to express our faith in the Lord's promise to "remain with you always, even to the end of the world" and would perhaps be another way to lift the spirits of our people."
May 14, 2020
With the pandemic that we are all facing and for the safety of all, the monthly Filipino or Tagalog Mass is cancelled until further notice.
May 13, 2020
Tom Merhaut of the Merhaut Religious Supply has picked up today the tabernacle. It will be sent to a repair company in Chicago that does a very fine job in fixing religious materials such as the tabernacle. I am thankful to our anonymous parishioner who sponsored for its repair. As to when it shall be sent back to us, that we have to monitor from time to time.
May 11, 2020
Notable Directives on the Guidelines to Resume Public Celebration of Mass as per Bishop's Directives
1. Public Sunday Masses are scheduled to begin with the Masses of May 23-24, 2020. New schedule of Masses are indicated under the services tub of this website.
2. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass remains in effect until further notice. Sick persons and those more susceptible to infection--the elderly, those already in frail health--are urged to remain at home and participate in televised or online Masses. Anyone who fears being infected by attending Mass should stay home.
3. Social distancing will be required at Mass. This is not optional as we cannot see our common enemy. Those who live in the same household may sit together; otherwise, there must be six feet of separation between persons. Every effort will be made to accommodate the faithful who come but once the reduced seating capacity of the church is reached, no others may enter the church.
4. The faithful are to wear masks during Mass, except in the moment of receiving Holy Communion. If you choose to receive by the hands, make sure you extend your hands; the same as you received Holy Communion by your tongue, make sure you extend your tongue.
5. The use of hymnals, song books, and novena prayer aid have to be removed from the pews. Holding hands at the Our Father is refrained, the Sign of Peace, and the offering of the Precious Blood of Christ to the faithful will be omitted. Hugging and embracing as a way of greeting each other shall be omitted.
6. With multiple Masses, the church will have to be sanitized between Masses, as well as before the first and after the last. Faithful are advised to wipe their respective seat in the pews using the wet wipes being placed on the same pews. Hand sanitizers shall be placed at the entrance doors of the church and before entering the main worship area the faithful are asked to sanitize their hands; the same applies as they exit the doors.
7. There are to be no social gatherings before or after Mass. Based on the seating arrangement inside the church, the persons who sit in front shall be the last persons to exit the church. As the Bible says, "The first will be the last..."
8. Children below 2 years old cannot wear mask for medical reason. Therefore, it is advisable to stay home.
9. Money counters must wear masks and put on their hand gloves. Social distancing is strictly observed.
10. For Confession, a penitent has to wear mask by kneeling or sitting behind the partition wall maintaining social distancing; face to face is discouraged.
11. The Lector shall read only the First and the Second Readings and leave the Prayers of the Faithful to the priest. The Lector is responsible to sanitize the pulpit after the Mass by using the wet wipes being provided. No announcement shall be made prior to Mass by a layperson; the priest shall do this part.
Note: Additional information shall be announced at the beginning of every Mass.
May 8, 2020
Welcome to the launching of this new parish website, which I have created overnight and continued to be developed with the intention to reach out to you and to bring hopefully the necessary information coming from your parish. Although this is not the best design, its main purpose is to deliver information of what's going on in our church and our parish. Thank you for your patience.
I'm glad to announce that we have new President and Vice-President of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), Pat Narango and Judi McBee, respectively. They will serve for two years and can be reelected or appointed by the Pastor. The PPC serves as the "mother" of all existing parish ministries and replaces the existing Liturgy Committee. The first PPC meeting shall be announced later once the date is determined. Finally, I am thankful to those who submitted themselves for the nomination and the election. Your unceasing support to our parish is greatly appreciated. God bless you and your families.
January 8, 2023
In the morning of January 2nd, the Vicar General of the diocese has called me to inform this servant of yours that I was elected in the late December 2022 as the new member of the Presbyteral Council of the Diocese. This Senate of Priests will help and assist the bishop in his pastoral ministry and will coordinate with the planning and implementation of some diocesan programs and activities that are beneficial for the people in parishes, vicariates, and the diocese as a whole. So, please pray for me as I start this another task this year in my pastoral ministry. Thank you!
January 3, 2023
On December 14, 2022, the bishop had canonically and officially appointed me Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, the current parish of which I am serving under the title of Administrator. This is in accordance with Canon 522 that a Pastor is canonically in possession of the said parish with certain canonical rights and privileges. In light of this canonical appointment, there will be a proper public liturgical ceremony of installation of pastor, which will be presided by the Vicar Forane of the Martinsburg Vicariate. The date of the Mass for the Installation of Pastor shall be held in March 2023; once the date is determined, I will announce it as soon as possible. Below is the list of the newly appointed pastors:
Father Dominikus Baok, S.V.D., is appointed pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Montgomery, St. Anthony Shrine Mission in Boomer, and Good Shepherd Chapel in East Bank, effective immediately.
Father Aloysius Boh is appointed pastor of St. Bernadette Parish in Hedgesville, effective immediately.
Father Binu Emmanuel, C.S.T., is appointed pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Mannington and St. Peter Parish in Farmington, effective immediately.
Father J. Michael O. Lecias is appointed pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Berkeley Springs, effective immediately.
Father Shinto Mathew is appointed pastor of St. John Parish in St. Marys, Christ Our Hope Mission in Harrisville (currently operating at St. Joseph Chapel, Pennsboro), and St. Joseph Chapel in Pennsboro, effective immediately.
Father Biju Parampil is appointed pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Logan, St. Edmund Chapel in Man, and Sacred Heart Parish in Williamson, effective immediately.
Father L.J. Asantha Jude Perera, T.O.R., is appointed pastor of St. Anthony Parish in Follansbee, effective immediately.
Father Daniel Price is appointed pastor of Annunciation of Our Lord Parish in Fort Ashby and St. Anthony Parish in Ridgeley, effective immediately.
Father S. Kumar Reddimasu is appointed pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Stonewood, effective immediately.
Father Thomas A. Sebastian, C.S.T., is appointed pastor of Assumption Parish in Keyser and Our Lady of Grace Parish in Romney, effective immediately.
Father Martin Smay is appointed pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Thomas and Our Lady of Mercy Mission in Parsons, effective immediately.
Father Edward A. Tetteh, S.V.D., is appointed pastor of Holy Rosary Parish in Buckhannon and Sacred Heart Chapel in Pickens, effective immediately.
Father Shaji Jacob Thomas is appointed pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Huntington and St. Peter Claver Parish in Huntington, effective immediately.
In consultation with Bishop James Thoppil of the Diocese of Kohima, India, Father Sojan Xavier is appointed administrator of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in St. Albans with residence in St. Albans, effective immediately.
December 30, 2022
Parish Pastoral Council Nominees for the Positions of President and Vice-President for a 2-Year Period:
Patty Brooks
John Gasch
Karen Gilbert
Dee Fournier
Victor Franco
Larry Landon
Judi McBee
Pat Narango
Angela O'Connell
Mike Stanger
Patrick McBee
Bob Williams
Dawn Roper
December 29, 2022
A Blessed New Year to All!
They say, "Time Flies" and, indeed, yes! The year 2023 is upon us, another year to be grateful to God for giving us another chance to be better Christians. Therefore, we should take it seriously upon ourselves as to how we can live out the gifts that are in store for us in the coming year. I guess we should use our prudent judgment in guiding us through the challenges that we may encounter along the way, knowing as well that God has equipped us with the necessary grace to enable us to be successful in whatever we do for the glory of His Name on earth. Let us not forget that we are not alone in this journey of faith, whether it may be sweet or bitter, easy or difficult, Jesus Christ, the Emmanuel, is with us. This alone should give us comfort and assurance that we can face this new year with spiritual virtues and upright attitudes.
Also, I welcome Fr. Jack Lombardi who is coming back to our area to be the pastor of Sts. Peter and Patrick Parish in Hancock, MD. To start his new year and his ministry, he will celebrate Mass at our parish on Sunday, January 1, 2023 at 9:00am. Let us welcome, Fr. Jack.
December 22, 2022
Greetings of Peace!
Christmas is here again. God is reminding us again through the birth of His Son, Jesus Christ, that we are not forgotten, that we are blessed beyond our imagination. With such a reminder, it is just proper to respond generously to what God has given us. How? By being generous with our time to others, especially to our families and friends including those who have no one to care for them. What a gift it is to others when you give and let them feel the sense of belonging.
With the advent of social media where it seems to offer easy connection, it has, in fact, created a sense of isolation from each other even among family members. It has failed to truly connect people in a profound way. For example, a person is paying more attention to his or her cellphone rather than paying attention to a personal encounter where true conversation could happen. Isolating oneself is a manifestation of being unwelcoming to the presence of another; it is a way of closing the inner inn of one's heart, which reminds us of the situation where the Baby Jesus was isolated from the hearts of men and women when there was no room in the inn.
Therefore, let us remind ourselves this Christmas season to create a space, an inner room in the inn of our hearts where we can accommodate those who are isolated. And so, let us be mindful of those within our families, parish and community who are looking for an inn to stay.
Merry Christmas!
December 21, 2022
On the weekend of January 7-8, 2023, at the end of each Mass, all parishioners shall elect the President and Vice-President of the newly established Parish Pastoral Council. Ballots shall be distributed at the end of the Mass by the ushers. The person who gets the highest number of votes shall be the president and the second highest number of votes shall be the vice-president. The Secretary shall be elected or appointed by the members on the Parish Pastoral Council during the first meeting in 2023, which will be determined later.
The term of office for said positions is 2 years, and can be reelected or reappointed by the pastor as deemed necessary. The list of nominees shall be published in in the bulletin and on this page soon.
December 8, 2022
Our Advent Penance Service is on Tuesday, December 20th, at 5:00pm. Please, please make an effort to go to the Sacrament of Holy Confession to avail the sacramental grace this Christmas season.
July 23, 2022
As per guidance from the Diocese, our parish here at St. Vincent de Paul in Berkeley Springs, is declared as "A Place of Christ's Peace" where "No Firearms and Weapons are Allowed" inside the Church. As we come to church, we come with peace in our hearts and minds offering worthy homage and worship to the God of Peace whose Son is sent to us, Jesus Christ, the King of Peace! I also appeal to all people, especially our beloved parishioners, to never stop praying for the end of violence in our society and in our world. To end any violence, it must start and come from within us where we allow Jesus Christ to reign in our life. Peace be with you!
July 22, 2022
Starting Tuesday, August 9, 2022, the Mass will be at 12:00Noon every Tuesday to accommodate those who are unable to attend the Mass at 7:00pm, which is our current schedule. To reiterate, there will be no Mass at 7:00pm on Tuesdays starting August 9th. Hoping to have more people attending.
June 24, 2022
Statement of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston regarding the USSC decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston applauds the Supreme Court’s decision today in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. While this decision will offer greater protection for the unborn in some parts of the country, we call upon Catholics throughout the diocese to continue to foster a genuine respect for all human life throughout our country.
Now more than ever, we must show our fellow citizens that we are both pro-child and pro- woman. The diocese continues to offer positive help to pregnant women in our state. We have outreach centers for pregnant women, counseling services to help women respect and cherish their unborn child, and outreach centers that provide parenting classes, baby clothes, diapers, and formula for mothers in need.
But our work is certainly not done. We must continue to strive to foster a culture of life in our society. We must strive ever more ardently to respect all life, from conception to natural death. This respect cannot be just for babies in the womb and their mothers. So too must we respect children in schools, those who attend churches, even those who just go to grocery stores to buy food—that they may do these things without threat of violence against them. We must show our respect for all life by working to drive out racism and gun violence from our midst.
Every life is a gift from God. Every life is precious and deserves our respect and help. I call on all West Virginia residents to work together toward fostering a culture of life in the Mountain State.
+Mark E. Brennan
Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston
June 22, 2022
Please join me in praying the Holy Rosary at the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes this Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 3:00PM, for the following intentions: sanctity of marriage, end of violence in our society, defense of human life, and the end of abortion. Please bring your own lawn chair and umbrella. See you there!
June 4, 2022
The Annual Priest Retreat for all priests in the diocese is this coming June 6-10, 2022 at Stonewall Resort, Roanoke, WV. Therefore, No Weekday Masses during this retreat.
April 6, 2022
Just to remind all parishioners that we have special collection taken up each year on Good Friday (The Pontifical Good Friday Collection for the Holy Land). This annual collection not only supports the Holy Places, but above all provides for those pastoral, charitable, educational, and social works, which the Church supports in the Holy Land for the welfare of the Christian brethren and of the local communities. "Moreover, for two consecutive years, the Christians of the Holy Land have celebrated Easter and Christmas in a sort of isolation, without the warmth and solidarity of pilgrims visiting the Holy Places and local communities. Families have suffered beyond measure, more from the lack of work than from the immediate effects of the pandemic itself. It is by the express wish of the Popes that the collection "Pro Terra Sancta" was begun and continues to be taken up on the day of the saving Passion of our Lord, Good Friday. It is not something ancient or outdated, because it expresses above all our awareness of being rooted in the proclamation of redemption, which spread from Jerusalem and reached us all. The gesture of offering, even a small one, but by everyone, like the widow's mite, allows our brothers and sisters to continue to live, to hope and to offer a living witness to the Word made flesh in places and on the streets that saw his presence."
February 14, 2022
Every First Saturday of the Month, we will pray the Living Rosary in front of the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes outside the Church at 3:00PM, an hour before the Vigil Mass. Please join us as we constantly pray for the end of abortion, for the protection of life in all its stages, for global peace, and for all the sick and suffering in our world. Please bring your Rosary and your lawn chair; prayer guides shall be provided. See you at the Grotto!
February 3, 2022
Feast of Saints Blaise and Ansgar
West Virginia is a Pro-Life State. WV believes in the God-given gift of freedom to live in all stages of life. Therefore, each human being has been given also the solemn duty to protect and defend each one's life including the life of the unborn. No malicious and prideful human decision must be above God's divine will for all human beings to live in the world created by God. All life exists in genuflection to God's omnipotent power that makes His providential care so alive and experiential in our daily lives.
As Catholics who believe in the value and preciousness of human life given by God, as your pastor, I ask all Catholic members of St. Vincent de Paul Parish to please join me in praying the Living Holy Rosary outside the church or in front of the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 3:00PM, the time when our Lord Jesus breathed His last so as to give us life. This is also right in time after the day when we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes on Friday, February 11, 2022.
Let us constantly pray for the end of the evil of abortion. Let us pray for some of our state legislators who are proposing anti-life, therefore, anti-Christ measures, in our beloved pro-life State of West Virginia, that they may have conversion of hearts, that they may abandon any legislative measures that are inimical to the principles of life and liberty, and that they may instead help promote and protect life in all its stages.
February 3, 2022
Feast of Saints Blaise and Ansgar
On Monday, February 7, 2022, at 9:00AM, Bishop Mark Brennan, Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, will speak at the rally along with fellow West Virginians in Charleston for the Pro-Life Day. Those who will be present at the rally will be introduced in the House/Senate Galleries when sessions begin at 11:00AM. I will be attending the rally for life.
December 31, 2021
The year 2022 is in our midst, another year of blessings from God despite the pandemic and other challenges we had this past year 2021. As people of faith, we are looking forward this year to be full of hope, faith and love, and to be always joyful knowing that Christ Jesus is with us, the Emmanuel. Let us be reminded that God is always faithful to us and this should make us faithful as well to His loving care. And so I wish you a happy and blessed New Year 2022, that all of your loved ones are safe and sound in God's grace. I hope to see you at the church often this year.
December 25, 2021
On behalf of the parish staff, I wish you and your family a Happy and Blessed Christmas. May the joy that Baby Jesus brings reside in your hearts and homes today and always. God bless you all!
December 10, 2021
On this Memorial of the Our Lady of Loreto, I am pleased to announce that our new Parish Director of Religious Education is Judi McBee. I am grateful that she is willing to serve our parish in this capacity aside from other liturgical ministries that she has already been involved with. When you see her, please let her know that she is greatly appreciated. Thank you so much, Judi.
November 23, 2021
I'm sad to announce the death of Anne Marie Burnette, our parish Director of Religious Education, who had been so instrumental in shaping our CCD class these past two years. She had been very helpful and active in our parish ministries and would not even mind cleaning the church with or without companions. Surely as a parish, we will miss Anne and her active involvement in all areas of parish ministries in whatever way she could. In particular, we will miss her leading and reciting in our midst the Holy Rosary before the weekend Mass.
Rest in peace, Anne. May the intercession of our Blessed Mother and all the Saints be upon you. May you enjoy in the loving embrace of our God Almighty in heaven.
October 26, 2021
There have been a lot of good things going on in our parish recently where we saw a lot of people getting and being involved in accomplishing our corporal works of mercy to achieve our common parish goal, that was, to make our parish alive again despite of the threat of the pandemic, many people have stepped up to contribute their talents, time and treasure. It would be too much if I would mention all in this message but I would like to highlight the works of some parish ministries we have.
Recently, we finished the first batch of lectors who joined the Lector's Conference facilitated by Judi McBee and we had another batch last October 23, 2021. Those new and old lectors will be officially installed according to the Rite of the Installation of Lector in the Church at all Masses this coming Saturday and Sunday, November 6 and 7, 2021, respectively.
Last month, we finished our Wall Project by fixing it from almost falling as it was badly as dangerous as it could cause a fatal accident if left unattended. Thank you to Mike Stanger and Pat Narango for spearheading it along with the members of the K of C. This project would have not been finished without the generous support of all parishioners who contributed money to meet our goal of $8,000 to finish the wall.
The parish picnic this year was a great success held at Cacapon State Park. Our parish kids enjoyed their games and many of our parishioners brought their special home baked goodies and dishes to be shared for all. In the same way, the K of C had sponsored two different Pool Parties for parishioners at the Berkeley Springs Pool Park where many of our kids and families enjoyed together. Of course, the food was so delicious.
Lately, our K of C did a recruitment weekend last October 23-24, 2021 in all Masses when our Grand Knight Pat Narango received the Star Award that was presented by our District Deputy Skipper Price and Assistant District Deputy Mike Stanger. The award was a sign of their great works of charity, fraternity and unity. However, to my surprise, the K of C also gave me an Award of Fidelity in recognition of my pastoral leadership, which of course I feel unworthy to receive such an award as I am a daily construction of God. So, I offer this award to all parishioners for their support and prayers to my ministry. I am sincerely grateful for this award.
Finally, I would like to thank all people who helped and still helping in all our parish ministries. To all volunteers who work anytime and all the time without asking any human recognition, I am truly grateful. May God always shower you with his blessings. God bless you.
October 23, 2021
1.) All are invited to attend and pray the Holy Rosary for America in front of the Grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at 4:00pm to be followed by Vigil Mass at 5:00pm. This prayer is in consonance with the culmination of the Holy Rosary Month of October. Prayer guides and rosaries will be provided.
2.) Masses on the Solemnity of All Saints and for All Souls Day are the following:
All Saints Day Mass: Monday, November 1, 2021 at 5:00pm (Holy Day of Obligation)
All Souls Day Mass: Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at 5:00pm
3.) Also, the days are getting darker as we approach the Daylight Saving Time. Therefore, our Vigil Masses during this time will be at 4:00pm starting Saturday, November 13, 2021; Confession starts at 3:30pm until 4:50pm.
4.) The Rite of Installation of Lectors will on the weekend of November 6 and 7, 2021, respectively, or at every Mass on Saturday at 5:00pm and Sunday at 9:00am.
August 23, 2021
"Queen Esther" Bus Trip
What: "Queen Esther" Musical Show
When: Saturday, October 2, 2021
Where: Sight & Sound Theater in Lancaster, PA
Departure Venue: St. Vincent de Paul Parking Lot
Departure Time: 8:00AM
Price per Person: $140.00 (includes roundtrip bus fare, buffet lunch and show ticket)
Please call the office at (304)258-1311 to reserve your spot. First come, first serve as the bus only has 55 seats available. Make checks payable to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church with "Queen Esther" in the memo line. Thank you.
July 16, 2021
Please put in your calendar the following parish activities:
Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10am-12noon: New and Old Lectors' Workshop at the Church
Sunday, August 22, 2021 at 1pm-4pm: Annual Parish Picnic at Cacapon State Park CCC Pavilion
September 18-19, 2021: Installation of New and Old Lectors at Masses on Saturday and Sunday (Postponed until futher notice)
Sunday, September 19, 2021: Catechetical Sunday and the Beginning of CCD Class
June 27, 2021
Our parish is in need of the following volunteers:
Lectors
Altar Servers both young and adults
Ushers
Church cleaners
Please call the office for more information. Thank you.
June 27, 2021
Our parish will conduct a workshop for those who may be interested in becoming a Lector. The theme of this workshop is: "Love and Proclaim: Scripture and Lay Readers at Mass" will be facilitated by Judy McBee, our Ministry of Lectors Committee Chairperson. Such workshop is free of charge, which will be on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 10:00am-12:00pm. Those interested, please call the office.
March 5, 2021
I'm inviting all parishioners to please attend every Friday during Lent the Stations of the Cross at 5:30pm preceded by the Sacrament of Confession at 5:00pm. Before the Stations of the Cross, there is a short Lenten Reflection on the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the Cross, which would correspond every Last Word to each Friday leading to the last Friday within the Holy Week. Please make this penitential sacrifice of the Stations of the Cross as part of your act of penance.
Also, here is the schedule during Holy Week/Triduum:
Palm Sunday Masses: Saturday Vigil, March 27: Mass at 5:00pm
Sunday, March 28: Mass at 9:00am
Holy Thursday, April 1: Last Supper Mass/Washing of the Feet at 6:00pm
Vigil at the Altar of Repose 7:00pm-9:00pm
Good Friday, April 2: Veneration of the Cross at 6:00pm
Holy Saturday, April 3: Easter Vigil Mass at 8:00pm
Easter Sunday, April 4: Easter Sunday Mass at 9:00am
January 30, 2021
Ash Wednesday is coming up, which will be on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, and our only Mass that day is at 5:00pm. The imposition of ashes shall be sprinkled only on top of the head; no more marking of ashes on the forehead due to the pandemic. As a way of our penance, fasting, abstinence and alms giving during this day as well as in all Fridays during Lent, including the Good Friday, are highly encouraged. Also, our Stations of the Cross every Friday during Lent is at 5:30pm inside the Church.
December 26, 2020
The schedule of Masses for the Solemnity of the Mother of God (Theotokos) or the New Year are the following:
December 31, 2020: New Year's Eve Mass at 8:00pm
January 1, 2021: New Year's Day Mass at 10:00am
December 16, 2020
Due to the inclement weather today, our Advent Penance Service is CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Thank you for understanding.
December 1, 2020
December 8, 2020 is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, a Holy Day of Obligation for all Catholics. Therefore, our Mass that day is at 5:00pm.
Also, the Advent Penance is scheduled on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at 5:30pm. We have a couple of priests helping us out to hear Confession. Please take this opportunity to avail the Holy Sacrament of Confession as we prepare for the coming of the Lord Jesus.
November 23, 2020
The Mass for the Thanksgiving Holiday on Thursday, November 26th, will be at 10:00am. The bulletin said at 9am but it was a typo. Our apology for the error.
October 27, 2020
The Daylight Saving Time will take effect this November 1, 2020. Therefore, the schedule for the entire Winter season for our Saturday Vigil Mass starting this Saturday, November 7, 2020, will be at 4:00pm, while Confession is at 3:30pm. Please be guided accordingly.
September 24, 2020
On behalf of the parish, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolence to Lu Byrne, the wife of the late Dick Byrne. Dick has been our parish bookkeeper for many years. Dick's service to the parish has been tremendous and his love and passion for his faith was beyond question. Surely we will miss him. Let us pray for his repose and for peace and consolation for the Byrne's family.
August 3, 2020
It has been a few months already that we have been hit by the pandemic, which in a way has changed our way of worship and even has stopped some to go to church on weekend. But based on our experience this time in our parish, by observing proper protocols, I can say that it is safer to attend the weekend Mass particularly to those who are healthy enough to get around. If you are able to get out of the house and go to malls, grocery stores and parks, maybe you can also go to the church to worship for an hour. Unless you are physically frail, elderly or at the very young age who are so vulnerable to a disease, you can stay at home and attend the online Masses. In short, weekend worship is safer and the church building is disinfected every other Friday, and people during Mass are asked to observe the physical distancing, to wear mask and to sanitize their hands. So, please come back to the Sunday worship...the Lord is waiting for you.
July 12, 2020
I have to reiterate that wearing mask inside the church building and the parish office is a must. Holding it with your hand does not constitute proper way of wearing it; you are still not wearing it. In fairness to all, I would like all parishioners at Mass to wear it while the Mass is ongoing and while inside the church building and the office. Also, it is still not allowed to congregate or socialize before and after the Mass at the gathering hall. Please observe this protocol religiously for the safety of all. Thank you.
June 26, 2020
For the fourth time, our parish will be distributing gallons of fresh milk for free to all who want them this coming Saturday, June 27th, at 6:00pm in front of the church. Please stop by and pick up yours. On the other hand, our church has been disinfected this Friday to ensure the safety of our parishioners; we did it every other Friday since the reopening of the church. In a special way, I'm grateful to Mike Stanger for leading the way in this effort.
June 8, 2020
Once again, our parish will distribute the 4,000 gallons of fresh milk to anyone who wants it this Saturday, June 13th, at 6pm in front of the church. I would like to thank Dawn Roper and Skipper Price for helping in distribution, and for Dawn to secure the apples for distribution as well.
June 5, 2020
Ten years ago, June 5, 2010, I made a promise to embrace the life of priesthood in and of Jesus Christ
at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Wheeling. Indeed, time flies when I don't think of it but how short and quick it is when I reflect of God's eternity, that despite His being God, He allows me, the imperfect, to share in the life of His Son's priestly ministry. Therefore, it is through His daily grace that sustains me in my journey, so I thank my Almighty God for this special gift, in the Priesthood of Jesus Christ the Savior. And to the People of God, thank you very much for your prayers and support.
June 4, 2020
According to Deacon Dave, the fresh milk will arrive at our parish this Saturday, June 6, 2020, between 9am-11am. If you want, feel free to come and take it for free.
June 3, 2020
Deacon Dave Galvin from St. James Parish in Charles Town, WV is bringing to our parish either Friday or Saturday 4,000 gallons of fresh milk to be distributed to people in our area and if you need milk you can also pick it up. We might be doing this throughout the month of June this year depending on the supplier. For more information, please call the office during office hours.
June 3, 2020
We belong to one race, that is, the human race. What makes this race precious is that it is endowed with intellect and will that no other beings have possessed. As St. Thomas Aquinas said, "Man is the crown of God's creation," which means all of us are equal before the Lord, that our colors, black or white or brown, do not matter. Being a precious race, man is capable of achieving human justice and fairness in his earthly life that reflects the Divine Justice and once this ability to reflect is being put aside human society is in danger, if not, unrest, riots, and violence would take over. The sense of profound reflection into the meaningful nature of human person and his or her dignity must be enabled in one's personal life so as one's character is being led into living or leading a life of order, beauty, peace, and harmony. Bringing back into our consciousness the sense of reality as to why we are precious among the rest of God's creation is a way to help us realize that as "being made in the image and likeness of God" we have an inalienable "birth mark," that is Human Dignity. It is that human dignity that allows us to promote justice and fairness, growth and development, peace and harmony, security and solidarity, and especially equality as we are colorless before the presence of God.
May 31, 2020
What a wonderful weekend for our parish as we baptized our catechumen, Linda Juergensen, and received into Full Communion into the Catholic Faith, Josh Amos, in the presence of their catechists and godparents and the whole community. Also following was their Confirmation. My sincere gratitude to Bob and Eun Yea Williams for providing spiritual guidance and catechetical instruction to our catechumen and candidate.
May 31, 2020
Due to a few number of attendance at Saturday Vigil Mass at 7:00pm and Sunday at 12noon Mass, I have decided to eliminate the same schedule of Masses starting this weekend of June 6-7, 2020. Our normal schedule now is back to Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00pm and Sunday Mass at 9:00am. On the side note, I cannot emphasize enough that we are REQUIRED UNTIL LIFTED to wear mask at all times during Mass, sanitize our hands upon entry, record our names and contact number upon entry, maintain social distancing, and wipe the area of the pew where you sat on after Mass with disinfecting wet wipes. Thank you for your compliance.
May 28, 2020
Because of Covid-19, the CCD Class for our children for the remainder of this year shall be cancelled. It is my pastoral duty to put our children to safety. Although they may miss their Sunday school, parents catechetically speaking are the first and primary teachers of faith. Undoubtedly, parents will continue doing this role at home especially in this time of pandemic. But if you need some help as to the materials for catechetical instruction, don't hesitate to call the office or call directly our DRE for guidance. On the other hand, the Nazareth House will reopen Tuesday, June 2, from 10:00am-2:00pm, Tuesday and Friday.
May 22, 2020
The Rite of Baptism for the Elect and the Reception of Candidate into Full Communion into the Catholic Church for the Candidate shall be administered on Pentecost Sunday, May 31, 2020, at 9am Mass. Wearing mask and social distancing shall strictly be observed.
May 21, 2020
The group of volunteers will be at the church on Friday, May 22, to clean and to help disinfect the church and offices to get ready for the reopening of public Sunday Masses this weekend. If you can help, please be there at 8:30am. With regard to the north side parking lot of the church, half of which shall be used by the County Farmer's Market. As you park, please park your car facing the courthouse so that spaces can accommodate more cars, and please park properly.
May 18, 2020
On May 18th, 2009, eleven years ago, I was ordained to the Order of Deacon. How quick the time, how long the eternity. Please pray for me always. Today also is the birthday of St. Pope John Paul II the Great. Let's pray that he will continue to intercede for us.
May 18, 2020
For your benefit, here are the "opening days" for Sunday Masses in our neighboring dioceses:
Archdiocese of Baltimore: May 30-31, 2020 "at the pastor's discretion"
Archdiocese of Washington: May 30-31
Diocese of Arlington: May 16-17 (outside of Northern Virginia), while in Northern Virginia, not before May 30.
Diocese of Richmond: May 23-24 except the City of Richmond
Diocese of Pittsburgh: June 6-7
Diocese of Greensburg: no date set yet; June likely.
Bishop Brennan said: "As a sign of our Catholic faith in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and especially in thanksgiving for our people being able to receive the Lord in that sacrament again after being deprived of it for an extended period of time, I would strongly urge all of our parishes to have a public Eucharistic procession on Corpus Christi Sunday, June 13-14. Social distancing would have to be maintained and masks worn but it is a beautiful way to express our faith in the Lord's promise to "remain with you always, even to the end of the world" and would perhaps be another way to lift the spirits of our people."
May 14, 2020
With the pandemic that we are all facing and for the safety of all, the monthly Filipino or Tagalog Mass is cancelled until further notice.
May 13, 2020
Tom Merhaut of the Merhaut Religious Supply has picked up today the tabernacle. It will be sent to a repair company in Chicago that does a very fine job in fixing religious materials such as the tabernacle. I am thankful to our anonymous parishioner who sponsored for its repair. As to when it shall be sent back to us, that we have to monitor from time to time.
May 11, 2020
Notable Directives on the Guidelines to Resume Public Celebration of Mass as per Bishop's Directives
1. Public Sunday Masses are scheduled to begin with the Masses of May 23-24, 2020. New schedule of Masses are indicated under the services tub of this website.
2. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass remains in effect until further notice. Sick persons and those more susceptible to infection--the elderly, those already in frail health--are urged to remain at home and participate in televised or online Masses. Anyone who fears being infected by attending Mass should stay home.
3. Social distancing will be required at Mass. This is not optional as we cannot see our common enemy. Those who live in the same household may sit together; otherwise, there must be six feet of separation between persons. Every effort will be made to accommodate the faithful who come but once the reduced seating capacity of the church is reached, no others may enter the church.
4. The faithful are to wear masks during Mass, except in the moment of receiving Holy Communion. If you choose to receive by the hands, make sure you extend your hands; the same as you received Holy Communion by your tongue, make sure you extend your tongue.
5. The use of hymnals, song books, and novena prayer aid have to be removed from the pews. Holding hands at the Our Father is refrained, the Sign of Peace, and the offering of the Precious Blood of Christ to the faithful will be omitted. Hugging and embracing as a way of greeting each other shall be omitted.
6. With multiple Masses, the church will have to be sanitized between Masses, as well as before the first and after the last. Faithful are advised to wipe their respective seat in the pews using the wet wipes being placed on the same pews. Hand sanitizers shall be placed at the entrance doors of the church and before entering the main worship area the faithful are asked to sanitize their hands; the same applies as they exit the doors.
7. There are to be no social gatherings before or after Mass. Based on the seating arrangement inside the church, the persons who sit in front shall be the last persons to exit the church. As the Bible says, "The first will be the last..."
8. Children below 2 years old cannot wear mask for medical reason. Therefore, it is advisable to stay home.
9. Money counters must wear masks and put on their hand gloves. Social distancing is strictly observed.
10. For Confession, a penitent has to wear mask by kneeling or sitting behind the partition wall maintaining social distancing; face to face is discouraged.
11. The Lector shall read only the First and the Second Readings and leave the Prayers of the Faithful to the priest. The Lector is responsible to sanitize the pulpit after the Mass by using the wet wipes being provided. No announcement shall be made prior to Mass by a layperson; the priest shall do this part.
Note: Additional information shall be announced at the beginning of every Mass.
May 8, 2020
Welcome to the launching of this new parish website, which I have created overnight and continued to be developed with the intention to reach out to you and to bring hopefully the necessary information coming from your parish. Although this is not the best design, its main purpose is to deliver information of what's going on in our church and our parish. Thank you for your patience.