“If Joseph was so engaged, heart and soul, in protecting and providing for that little family at Nazareth, don't you think that now in heaven he is the same loving father and guardian of the whole Church, of all its members, as he was of its Head on earth?”
Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas
Introducing our (New!) Office for Ministry with Young Adults and Office for Ministry with Youth!
Are you a young adult and looking to connect with other Catholic young adults in our area? Are you someone who ministers to youth or wants to start youth ministry in your parish? Two new offices of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are here to help. Click the flyer below for the contact information of our new Director for the Office for Ministry with Young Adults, Matt Davis, and our new Director of the Office for Ministry with Youth, Marisally Santiago. These two are on fire for Christ and ready to serve you!
- Click here for the flyer (with contact info)
- To learn more about Matt and Marisally, click here
- Click here to learn more about an adoration event for teens on July 10!
Litany of St. Joseph: A New Translation
On May 1, the Memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments published additions to the official Litany of Saint Joseph. The additions were approved by Pope Francis and the Congregation deemed it appropriate to update the 112-year-old litany. Here are the seven new invocations:
- Custos Redemptori (Protector of the Redeemer)
- Serve Christi (Servant of Christ)
- Minister salutis (Minister of salvation)
- Fulcimen in difficultatibus (Support in difficulty)
- Patrone exsulum (Patron of refugees)
- Patrone afflictorum (Patron of the afflicted)
- Patrone pauperum (Patron of the poor).
The USCCB Committee on Divine Worship has approved a new version of the Litany of St. Joseph including official translations for the seven new invocations. The link to the newly translated Litany can be found below. This text may be freely reproduced and distributed.
A Biblical Walk Through the Mass (Newly filmed at our own Cathedral!)
At each celebration of the Most Holy Mass, God becomes fully present to us, Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity. He comes to be completely united with us. Everyone is called to experience God's healing and peace through the Eucharist. One of the best ways to prepare for Mass is to study the profound significance of what we say and do during each celebration of the Sacred Liturgy. That is why Ascension Press is releasing the 10th anniversary revised edition of A Biblical Walk Through the Mass with Dr. Edward Sri, to remind Catholics that the Mass is the epitome of the spiritual life. The series was filmed at our very own Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia! Click the video above to watch the 2-minute trailer. Click here to learn more and order the new series.
Office for the New Evangelization Events
Holy Hours
with the Good Shepherd
Need some encouragement in these difficult times in the world and the Church? Join us for a holy hour with fellow priests, religious and lay faithful as we seek strength and hope from Jesus, our Good Shepherd, the saints and one another. The Holy Hour includes Rosary, Litany and Benediction. Afterwards join us for a short talk on a saint, exploring how he or she remained faithful to Christ and His Church during the trials of his or her time.
Sunday, September 19, 2021 ~ 2-4 PM
Talk topic: St. Gregory the Great's Reforms of the Church in Crisis
Rev. G. Dennis Gill, Rector of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church
3422 Dennison Ave ~ Drexel Hill, PA
More details and additional dates: Click here for the flyer
To RSVP, visit phillyevang.org/events.
2021 Catholic Women's Conference
Mini-Conferences
Strong and Beautiful
Saturday, October 23, 2021
National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa
654 Ferry Road - Doylestown, PA
CWC2021 will be a highly modified version of our usual event day-long event. This year, Catholic women are invited to attend one, 2-hour, in-person mini-conference – morning or afternoon – and then enjoy four video talks at home at your leisure. Morning keynote by Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Afternoon keynote by Mother Clare Matthias, CFR. The Spanish track takes place at Holy Innocents Parish in Philadelphia with keynote by Yamilka Genao.
Conference flyer (English)
Volante Promocional (Español)
For full information about speakers, talk topics and registration, visit: http://www.catholicwomensconference.org/
Around the Archdiocese
Below you will find online Catholic events being offered in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. If you would like to submit an event for inclusion in the newsletter, please email all pertinent information in the format used below to phillyevang@archphila.org by the 23rd of the month for consideration.
Year of Saint Joseph Events
December 8, 2020 to December 8, 2021
Everyone is invited to enter fully into the Holy Year of St. Joseph! To find local events, prayers and faith formation resources for the Holy Year, visit our Archdiocesan website at archphila.org/joseph.
Wednesday, June 30 at 7 PM
Event: A Common Good Worth Living For: A Lecture by Archbishop Charles Chaput
Charles J. Chaput, Archbishop Emeritus of Philadelphia, reflects on the common good as the highest good in light of his recent book Things Worth Dying For: Thoughts on a Life Worth Living. In this book, he “examines the chronic questions of the human heart; the idols and false flags we create; and the nature of a life of authentic faith. He points to our longing to live and die with meaning as the key to our search for God, our loyalty to nation and kin, our conduct in war, and our service to others” In this evening lecture, the Archbishop deepens his description of things that are worth dying for by describing the centrality of the common good for a life worth living. Recentering our life on the common good beyond our private desires is ultimately the only path forward for us as persons in community.
Location: Penn Newman Center, 3720 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
For more details and to RSVP, visit: https://chaput2021.eventbrite.com/.
Friday, July 2 and August 6, 2021-7:00 PM
Event: Healing Prayer Service
Join us for Mass, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, praise and worship music and healing prayers.
Location: National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, 654 Ferry Rd, Doylestown, PA 18901
More info: Visit the website
Saturday, July 3, 2021 - 9:00 AM 11:30 AM
Event: Happiness, A Way of Life: Hiking/Walking Retreat for Young Adults
What does it mean to be happy in a world that glorifies busyness, success, and productivity? For answers, we will immerse ourselves in nature as we look to a more counter-cultural example found in the Beatitudes. Join Peak for a hiking retreat at Valley Forge in the spirit of Pier Giorgio Frassati, dubbed a "a man of the eight Beatitudes," just in time for his July 4 feast day. Please register by June 29.
Hosted by: Peak Encounter Ministries
Location: Valley Forge National Park, King of Prussia
More info: Visit the website
Every Wednesday from July 7 - August 25, 7-9pm via Zoom
Event: The Church and Gender: An 8-week course for Catholic adults
For adults with questions about the Church's teaching on contemporary issues, this course will aim to establish how best to understand and approach contemporary culture.
Instructor: Daniel A. Drain, Ph.D. (Cand.,), MTS, Director of Religious Education at Our Lady of Guadalupe Doylestown
More info: View the flyer; Cost of Registration: $35; To register, email Daniel at ddrain@olguadalupe.org
For adults with questions about the Church's teaching on contemporary issues, this course will aim to establish how best to understand and approach contemporary culture.
Instructor: Daniel A. Drain, Ph.D. (Cand.,), MTS, Director of Religious Education at Our Lady of Guadalupe Doylestown
More info: View the flyer; Cost of Registration: $35; To register, email Daniel at ddrain@olguadalupe.org
Saturday, July 10, 2021 - 6-9 PM
Event: Young Church, Arise (Event for Teens)
An evening of Adoration with Live Praise & Worship, Reflection, Confessions, Intercessory Prayer, and more! Event is open to incoming 8th through 12th grade teens. Teens must be part of groups accompanied by an adult with proper clearances.
Sponsored by: (New!) Archdiocesan Office for Ministry with Youth
Location: Mother of Divine Providence Parish, King of Prussia
Philadelphia Catholic Liturgy Program (Online Courses)
The Liturgical Institute at Mundelein Seminary (at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake) has made available to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia a special bundle of their on-line courses at a most reasonable rate. These courses provide foundational information on the Sacred Liturgy for clergy and the lay faithful. The summer may be an ideal time for many to take advantage of the opportunity to take these on-line courses. They are excellent refresher courses as well as new learning opportunities for liturgical ministers and catechists.
Topics: Introduction to the Sacred Liturgy, Instructions for Liturgical Ministers, Liturgy and Discipleship and more
More info: Total cost for bundle of six courses is $199; For full details, visit https://liturgy.teachable.com/p/philadelphia
July 12-15, 2021
Event: St. John Bosco Conference at Franciscan University of Steubenville
Calling all catechists, Catholic school teachers, youth ministers, evangelizers, RCIA coordinators, and anyone who hands on the faith to others! This is your time, your place to come be renewed in mind, heart, and skills. Experience many engaging speakers, moving worship, and outstanding fellowship that will rejuvenate you for life and mission.
Speakers: Bob Rice, Bishop Joseph Strickland, Jim Beckman and many more
Location: Franciscan University of Steubenville
More info: For speakers, cost and registration, visit https://steubenvilleconferences.com/events/sjb/
Monday through Friday, July 12-16 or July 19-23, 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., and 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Event: One-Week Online Courses on Sexual Ethics and the Theology of the Body
Host: Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family, Washington, DC
- July 12-16: “Sexual Ethics and Theology of the Body” course: will examine St. John Paul II/Karol Wojtyla's teachings on Catholic sexual ethics by focusing on a positive account of the nature of the human person and conjugal/marital love structured as total, reciprocal gift of self. Click here to register!
- July 19-23: “Theology of the Body” course: studies his "Wednesday catecheses" through an in-depth examination of the text and a focus on the theological and philosophical foundations of his thought. Click here to register!
For more information, visit https://www.johnpaulii.edu/events, or email information@johnpaulii.edu.
Wednesday, July 14, 7-8pm, followed by Q&A
Event: Finding Peace in Uncertain Times
Join us in person or via live stream to hear practical tips for finding emotional peace from Nina Marie Corona, founder of We Thirst and AFIRE Ministries. Nina has gone through the journey from turmoil to peace and offers words of healing and help to all of us.
Location: In person at St. Jude Church, Chalfont (will also be live-streamed)
More info: No registration required; For full details and a 30-second intro video visit stjudechalfont.org/parish-presentation Questions? contact Lori Rawski lrawski@stjudechalfont.org, 215-822-9225, x234
Saturday, July 17, 2021 - 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Event: Lectio Divina: Prayerful Reading of the Scriptures
Have you learned to pray with the Scriptures? To read and listen to God’s Word in a way that invites a personal, prayerful response and moves you to greater love of God and neighbor? Learn the method of “lectio divina” at a day-long program. Our guide will be Father Peter Damian Akpunonu, SSL, STD. Fr. Akpunonu was professor of Sacred Scripture for many years in seminaries in Nigeria and in the U.S., and has served the Holy See on the Vatican’s International Theological Commission and at the Synod on the Word of God.
Location: Mother Boniface Spirituality Center in Northeast Philly
More info: View the flyer; This event is in person. The fee for the day is $35.00. To register, call 267-350-1831 or email mbcretreat@msbt.org by July 9th.
Event: Lectio Divina: Prayerful Reading of the Scriptures
Have you learned to pray with the Scriptures? To read and listen to God’s Word in a way that invites a personal, prayerful response and moves you to greater love of God and neighbor? Learn the method of “lectio divina” at a day-long program. Our guide will be Father Peter Damian Akpunonu, SSL, STD. Fr. Akpunonu was professor of Sacred Scripture for many years in seminaries in Nigeria and in the U.S., and has served the Holy See on the Vatican’s International Theological Commission and at the Synod on the Word of God.
Location: Mother Boniface Spirituality Center in Northeast Philly
More info: View the flyer; This event is in person. The fee for the day is $35.00. To register, call 267-350-1831 or email mbcretreat@msbt.org by July 9th.
Continuing July 19, 2021
Event: Archdiocesan Novena to St. Joseph
(To be prayed on the 19th of each month from March 19-November 19, 2021)
The Archdiocesan Novena to Saint Joseph can be prayed in any setting, especially before or after Holy Mass and/or at parish meetings, in the classroom and in the family home. The praying of this Novena is to unite everyone in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on the 19th of each month, from March through November 2021, in single petition of confident prayer to the Lord through the heavenly intercession of Saint Joseph. Please keep in mind the monthly Archdiocesan intention, found on page 4 of the Novena below.
The Archdiocesan Novena to Saint Joseph can be prayed in any setting, especially before or after Holy Mass and/or at parish meetings, in the classroom and in the family home. The praying of this Novena is to unite everyone in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on the 19th of each month, from March through November 2021, in single petition of confident prayer to the Lord through the heavenly intercession of Saint Joseph. Please keep in mind the monthly Archdiocesan intention, found on page 4 of the Novena below.
- Click here for the Novena prayers (Español)
- More events and resources for the Year of St. Joseph can be found at archphila.org/joseph
Wednesday, July 21, 2021 - 9:30 P.M. EDT
Event: That Man Is You Information Night
Event: That Man Is You Information Night
Help the men in your parish discover their mission through the "That Man Is You" (TMIY) program. Paradisus Dei, which produces TMIY and many other faith formation programs, is hosting an information night for any man who feels called to start this ministry in their parish. At this Mission Night, you will learn: 7 easy steps to starting TMIY at your parish; The inspiration behind TMIY and the spiritual hunger of men; A walk-through of the startup process; How to train a Core Team and recruit participants; Proven tips taken straight from seasoned TMIY groups.
Location: Zoom Meeting
More info: No registration is required. Click this Zoom link on July 21 at 9:30 PM to join the meeting. Questions? Contact Michael at mjf.gallagher@gmail.com.
July 25-29, 2021
Event: Going Deeper (Event for young men in high school)
High school men (incoming Juniors to graduated Seniors) are invited to listen for God's voice and delve deeper in their faith by putting their faith into action and participating in Going Deeper, a 4-day service-oriented camp. This powerful week offers participants the opportunity to participate in various service activities as well as daily Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharistic Adoration, engaging talks and small group discussions. The camp is led by Philadelphia seminarians, priests, and deacons and is limited to 15 participants.
For full details, visit: https://heedthecall.org/events/goingdeeper/
July 26-29, 2021
Event: Encounter School of Ministry Summer Intensive
The Summer Intensive Conference is an evening school that provides a survey of the content offered in the first four quarters of the Encounter School of Ministry over a fast four day period. The content covered includes Identity & Transformation, Power & Healing, Hearing God & The Prophetic Gifts, Inner Healing & Freedom. The Summer Intensive is perfect for anyone desiring to attend the Encounter School during the year but unable to do so due to distance or schedule. It is also ideal for those discerning their enrollment in the school but needing further discernment.
Location: National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA
July 25-31
Event: “Come and Rest Awhile” Silent Retreat
Mother Boniface Spirituality Center in Northeast Philadelphia is offering a week-long silent retreat. Guests can make a private retreat or seek the assistance of an experienced guide.
For more information or to register (by July 16), call Sr. Sara Butler, MSBT at 267-350-1833 or email mbcretreat@msbt.org.
Monday, July 26, 2021 - 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Event: Morning of Reflection for Grandparents: “The Grace of Being Grand”
Celebrate the blessings and challenges of grand-parenting on this feast day of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. Our morning consists of morning refreshments, prayer, and a conference by our guest presenter. Deacon Tony currently serves as the Permanent Deacon at Saint Stanislaus Parish and is the loving father of two and grandfather of five.
Guest Presenter: Deacon Anthony Bellitto
Location: National Centre for Padre Pio, Spirituality Centre, 111 Barto Road, Barto, PA
More info: There is no cost to attend; however, please register by contacting: Angela@PadrePio.org or 610-845-3000.
July 30 – August 1, 2021
Event: Flame of Love National Conference and Retreat
Join us virtually for the Flame of Love Retreat. Father James Blount will serve as retreat director.
Join us virtually for the Flame of Love Retreat. Father James Blount will serve as retreat director.
Hosted by: Malvern Retreat House 315 S. Warren Ave., Malvern Pa 19355; 610-644-0400
More info: Virtual cost is $75 (onsite attendance is at capacity); Visit https://www.malvernretreat.com/events/flame-of-love-4/
More info: Virtual cost is $75 (onsite attendance is at capacity); Visit https://www.malvernretreat.com/events/flame-of-love-4/
Saturdays, July 31, August 7 (6-10 PM), August 14 (4-10 PM)
Event: MagniFest: Outdoor Music Festival
Join us for a series of summer nights of music and praise on the beautiful grounds of St. Mary of Providence Center, Elverson. Expect Music, Prayer, Food, Vendors and more!
Featuring Musicians:
- Saturday, July 31 -- 6-10PM - Jule Coppa & Jack Terzian
- Saturday, August 7 -- 6-10 PM - Maryanne & Bill McCann, Three and One
- Saturday, August 14 -- 4-10 PM - Pawel Machura (musician), Kate Capato (presenter); The Vigil Mass for the Assumption will be celebrated by Father Steve DeLacy, with Eucharistic Adoration following.
Location: St. Mary of Providence Retreat Center, Elverson, PA
Tickets: Online: $10 pp, $40 family of 4+; At the door: $15 pp, $60 family of 4+, children 7 & under free; Youth groups: Bring 10 get 1 free!
More info: View the flyer; Visit stmaryprov.org for updates on musicians, vendors and weather announcements.
Friday, July 30, 2021 – 11:30 AM
Event: The Feast Day of Blessed Solanus Casey Celebration
Join us in celebrating the Feast Day of Blessed Solanus Casey with an opportunity to pray the Rosary, venerate his relic, and view an inspirational movie about his life and spirituality. Movie details: Solanus Casey: Priest, Porter, Prophet (Running Time: 90 Minutes)
Location: The National Centre for Padre Pio, Spirituality Centre, 111 Barto Road, Barto, PA
More info: Rosary 11:30 AM with Veneration of Relic; followed by Movie at 12:15 PM; There is no cost to attend; however, register for the movie by contacting Angela@PadrePio.org or 610-845-3000.
August 2-6, 2021
Event: Retreat for Religious Sisters
Retreat theme: Christ Lives in Me! Sharers in the Divinity of Christ
Retreat director: Fr. G. Dennis Gill, Rector, Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
Location: St. Mary of Providence Retreat Center, Elverson, PA
More info: For more details and registration, view the flyer
Sunday, August 8, 2021; Time: 2-4 pm
Event: Women’s Tea with Mary Bea Damico of Voveo Marketing.
Event: Women’s Tea with Mary Bea Damico of Voveo Marketing.
We will reflect on the power of surrender and devotion to Mary
Cost: $25 onsite and virtual
Hosted by: Malvern Retreat House 315 S. Warren Ave., Malvern Pa 19355; 610-644-0400
More info: Please visit www.malvernretreat.com/register
More info: Please visit www.malvernretreat.com/register
August 8 - 13, 2021
Event: Unbound Catholic Priests Retreat: Training in Unbound
On this retreat for Catholic priests, you will learn a simple, personal way to pray with your parishioners to be free of their burdens, have an opportunity to receive a personal Unbound prayer session, and Connect with other priests who use or want to use Unbound in pastoral care
Location: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA
More info: Registration, schedule and speakers can be found at https://www.heartofthefather.com/events/schedule/church-field-hospital/
August 13-15, 2021
Event: Retrouvaille: Rediscover the Love in Your Marriage
Tens of thousands of couples have healed their marriages through Retrouvaille (pronounced Retro-vy). If you know anyone who could benefit from this program, please pass this on. Couples learn to build communication skills and to increase intimacy. It provides help for marriage problems, difficulties or crises. The next program begins the weekend of August 13 - 15, 2021 at the Family Life Center in Malvern, PA.
For more information, or to register, visit www.HelpOurMarriage.org or call 215-766-3944 or 800-470-2230. All inquiries are strictly confidential.
Saturday, August 14, 2021 - 12:05 PM
Event: Mass for Those Suffering from Addiction
Addiction has touched far too many families and taken far too many of our loved ones. Join us that we may draw strength from one another in the power of our faith.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer or visit archphila.org/hope.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer or visit archphila.org/hope.
August 23-27, 2021
Event: Private Silent Retreats at Malvern Retreat House
Malvern Retreat House will begin offering personal reflective retreats with silence. These retreats are designed for those who need time to reflect on their lives, discern a new path, pray or refresh themselves spiritually. Each individual will have the option to participate in Daily Mass, Morning and Evening Prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, Individual Eucharistic Adoration, Daily Conferences, Sacrament of Reconciliation, and Rosary. Guests may also schedule time for Spiritual Direction.
Location: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA
More info and registration: https://www.malvernretreat.com/events/private-retreats/
Tuesday, September 28, 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM
Event: St. Joseph Retreat hosted by Saints Peter and Paul Parish
Join us for a series of talks on Saint Joseph by Father David Friel, our new Archdiocesan Vocations Director. Mass, Adoration, Confession, and free time to walk the beautiful retreat grounds are all part of the schedule. Continental breakfast and a lunch are included in the cost. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with others and learn more about the role Saint Joseph has in our lives!
Guest Presenter: Father David Friel
Guest Presenter: Father David Friel
Location: Malvern Retreat House, Malvern, PA
More Info: If you have any questions, please contact Judy Magee at 484-473-8205. Cost is $45. To register, please send a check to the attention of Judy Magee and made payable to Saints Peter and Paul Parish, 1325 East Boot Road, West Chester, PA 19380. Deadline for registration is Monday, September 13.
LOOKING AHEAD...
September 30 - November 1, 2021 - 33-Day Preparation for Consecration to St. Joseph, Cathedral, Philadelphia
October 17, 2021 - Archdiocese of Philadelphia Annual Charismatic Conference, Doylestown
November 10, 2021 - Save the Date: NCYC Event for Teens, Doylestown
ONGOING INITIATIVES
- Year of St. Joseph Events and Resources - archphila.org/joseph
- Rosary Campaign for the End of the Coronavirus and the Renewal of the Church - phillyevang.org/rosary
- Nourish for Caregivers Support Groups - phillyevang.org/nourish
- Arise: Restoring Catholic Life after the Pandemic - archphila.org/arise
- Revive Online Ministry Training Platform - archphila.org/revive
- Hope in Christ: Spiritual Support for Addiction - archphila.org/hope
- Archdiocesan Missionary of Mercy - archphila.org/mercy
- List of Local Catholic Ministries in the Archdiocese - phillyevang.org/fire
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