"He is Holy Joseph, because no other Saint but he lived in such and so long intimacy and familiarity with the source of all holiness, Jesus, God incarnate, and Mary, the holiest of creatures.”
Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas
What is a Missionary Disciple?
The new Catholic buzzword is "missionary disciple." It's the phrase we use to articulate the mission that each of us received from Jesus Christ at the moment our our Baptism. But what does it mean? Check out this helpful 5-minute video in which Fr. Mark Toups of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux summarizes the nine characteristics of a missionary disciple. Consider using these nine points as a kind of examination of conscience for yourself and for your parish: Am I personally growing in all nine areas mentioned here? Is my parish offering ministries, resources and opportunities for the community to grow in all of these nine dimensions? If you find that there are gaps, pray about a few concrete next steps you can take to round out your personal and parish formation of missionary disciples.
Archdiocesan News
Recently, Archbishop Pérez released two important statements, including the reinstatement of our Sunday Mass Obligation starting on August 15, 2021. Please see below to read the Archbishop's announcements.
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 modified version of our usual 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.
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/
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.
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.
Saturday, July 31, 2021 – 8 AM-8 PM
Event: Purpose Conference for Teens (Open to all high schoolers entering 9th grade-exiting 12th grade)
Speakers: Bob Lesnefsky, John Paul Kasperowicz, The Sisters of Life, Shannon Donnelly and Pete DeMaio
Schedule: Click here for the schedule of the day
Location: St. John the Evangelist Parish, Morrisville, PA
More info: Youth groups, individual teens, and parents with teens are all welcome! Scholarships are available. Registration, speaker information and other details can be found at https://stjohnpa.org/purpose-conference/.
Questions? Contact Maria Shadle, Youth Minister at youthministries@stjohnpa.org
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
Friday, August 6 and Sept 3, 2021-7:00 PM
Event: Healing Mass and 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: https://czestochowa.us/newsevents/upcoming-events/
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 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.
August 13, 14, and 15, 2021
Event: Weekend of Prayer, Hope, and Healing with Fr James Blount, S.O.L.T. with a guest presentation from Dr. Antone Raymundo
This blest weekend, which celebrates a Fatima Day, the 43rd anniversary of O.L.M.E, the memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe, a "martyr of charity," and the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, will provide moving conferences from Fr. James Blount and Dr. Antone Raymundo as well as opportunities for Mass, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and individual blessings.
Location: Our Lady's Missionaries of the Eucharist: 640 E. Main St, Birdsboro, PA 19508
More info: To register, contact Our Lady's Missionaries of the Eucharist by email at olme@olme.org, by phone at 610-582-3333, or on our website olme.org
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.
Continuing August 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
August 22 and 23, 2021 – 7:00-8:30 PM
Event: Two Live Virtual Events with Ralph Martin
August 22: A Church in Crisis: Pathways Forward; Based on his most recent book, A Church in Crisis: Pathways Forward, Ralph will look at the hostility that has grown toward the Catholic Church and will present the hard evidence uncovering the forces that have continued to undermine the Body of Christ while also offering hope to those looking for clarity.
August 23: The Desire of Every Heart: Relationship with God; Ralph’s presentation will be based on his book, The Fulfillment of All Desire, and provide rich insight, practical wisdom, encouragement and direction for the pilgrim who desires to know, love, and serve God. Come and be inspired to pursue the desire of every person’s heart - relationship with God.
Speaker: Ralph Martin, Noted Author, Speaker, and Consultor to the Pontifical Council for the New Evangelization
Location: Virtual event, sponsored by Our Lady of Perpetual Help Evangelization Team
Registration and More: To register, please go to www.olphmorton.org and look for “Two Special Events with Ralph Martin.” A live Q&A will follow Ralph’s presentations.
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/
September 3-5, 2021
Event: Young Adult Retreat on “The Joy of the Beatitudes”
Young Adults (20s & 30s) are invited to Malvern Retreat House for a weekend retreat on the joy of living the Beatitudes while deepening our relationship with Jesus Christ. Led by Fr. Remigio Morales, SCV, and Fr. Steven DeLacy, the weekend will include Mass, Adoration, Confession, Lectio Divina, Liturgy of the Hours, and time for recreation, socializing and group sharing. Enjoy the peaceful and beautiful grounds of Malvern in fellowship with other young adults seeking to grow in their Catholic faith. Meals and lodging will be provided.
Cost: $175. Financial assistance is available!
For more information or to register, please visit MalvernRetreat.com/calendar or call 610-644-0400.
September 10-12, 2021
Event: Amata Days Vocation Weekend (A retreat for girls in grades 10-12 to discern their vocation)
Retreat theme: Discerning your call to religious life
Retreat directors: The Capuchin Sisters of Nazareth
Location: St. Agnes Church Sellersville, PA
More info: For more details and registration information, view the flyer
September 17-19 , 2021 and November 12-14, 2021
Event: Marriage Encounter Weekends
Event: Marriage Encounter Weekends
Marriage Encounter weekend experiences are once again being held in person in the greater Philadelphia area. Register today!
Location: Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA
Location: Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA
More information: Visit the Marriage Encounter website
Saturday, September 18, 2021
Event: AbbeyFest: Faith, Family and Music Festival
Join us for the area’s largest Catholic music festival! Families, individuals, young adults, youth groups and more are all welcome. We look forward to welcoming His Excellency Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez!
Musicians: Matt Maher, Firehill Worship, The Scally Brothers and more
Location: Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, PA
More info: https://www.theabbeyfest.com/
Saturday, September 18, 2021 - 12:00-9:00 PM and Sunday, September 19, 2021 - 12:00-6:00 PM
Event: 6th Annual Padre Pio Festival presented by St. Bede the Venerable Parish and Knights of Columbus Council 15478
Event: 6th Annual Padre Pio Festival presented by St. Bede the Venerable Parish and Knights of Columbus Council 15478
Saturday – Community Family Picnic with food, games, entertainment and amusements; evening concert at 7:30 (The Jersey Tenors)
Sunday – Solemn Mass at 12:30 (Homilist Fr. Pio Mandato) followed by a street procession and healing service with Padre Pio Relics; food, games, entertainment and amusements
Location: St. Bede the Venerable Parish, 1071 Holland Road, Holland, PA.
More info: https://padrepiofestivalhollandpa.com/
Monday, September 20, 2021 – 7:00 PM
Event: Presentation: “The Wonders of St. Joseph!”
Join us for a talk by local Catholic physician and Third Order Carmelite, Dr. Antone Raymundo. You will learn all about the glories of St. Joseph and the power he has to protect, provide and lead you deeper into the spiritual life. The talk is based on book, Consecration to St. Joseph by Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC
Location: St. Isaac Jogues Church, 50 W. Walker Rd., Wayne, PA
Join us for a talk by local Catholic physician and Third Order Carmelite, Dr. Antone Raymundo. You will learn all about the glories of St. Joseph and the power he has to protect, provide and lead you deeper into the spiritual life. The talk is based on book, Consecration to St. Joseph by Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC
Location: St. Isaac Jogues Church, 50 W. Walker Rd., Wayne, PA
More info: https://stisaac.org/
Mondays 6-9 PM beginning September 21, 2021
Event: Encounter School of Ministry
The Encounter School of Ministry will teach you how to live a whole lifestyle that demonstrates the goodness of God in the world around you. The Encounter School will provide you with a safe space to learn, discern and take risks in developing your gifting, calling, and confidence in stepping out in faith. We will train, equip, and activate you in the supernatural gifts Jesus modeled and intended to be part of the normal life of every disciple through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Location: National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown
More info: https://encounterschool.org/doylestown/
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.
October 8-9, 2021
Event: Unbound: Freedom in Christ Conference
Event: Unbound: Freedom in Christ Conference
Take hold of the freedom you have been given in Christ! At the UNBOUND: Freedom in Christ Conference, you will learn how to unlock your prison doors by using the Five Keys to Freedom. The conference involves times of prayer and worship, insightful teaching, and personal ministry from our ministry team. This conference will equip you to cooperate with God as He sets you free.
Location: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Morton
More info: Registration, schedule and more at: https://www.heartofthefather.com/events/schedule/morton-pa
Sunday, October 17 at 2:00 PM
Event: Mass with Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of the Sick will be available for those whose health is seriously impaired by sickness or old age. Family and caregivers are also welcome to attend.
Location: Mother of Divine Providence Parish, King of Prussia
More info: Parish website-https://www.mdpparish.com/. Registration is not required but appreciated. Please email Jenna McAndrew, Director of Parish Services: jmcandrew@mdpparish.com
Tuesday, October 19 at 7:15 PM
Event: Courage International Speaker
Are you unclear on the Catholic Church’s teaching on same sex atttaction? Are you unsure on how to respond to those in your life who deal with same-sex atttraction? Courage International is a Roman Catholic apostolate for men and women who experience same-sex attraction and those who love them. All are welcome to join us as we learn more about the Church’s teaching on this issue and how to respond in a truthful yet compassionate way.
Location: Providence Hall in our Parish Center, Mother of Divine Providence, King of Prussia
More info: Free and open to the public; Questions? Email Jenna McAndrew, jmcandrew@mdpparish.com; Parish website https://www.mdpparish.com/
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
LOOKING AHEAD...
October 17, 2021 - Archdiocesen Annual Charismatic Conference, Doylestown
November 10, 2021 - Save the Date: NCYC Event for Teens, Doylestown
Dec 30-Jan 3, 2022 - FOCUS SEEK Conference, Salt Lake City, UT
October 6-14, 2022 - Pilgrimage to Italy with Fr. Eric Banecker
ONGOING INITIATIVES
- Year of St. Joseph Events and Resources - archphila.org/joseph
- Online Rosary Campaign - phillyevang.org/rosary
- Nourish for Caregivers Support Groups - phillyevang.org/nourish
- 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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