Share the message of Our Lady of Guadalupe and promote respect for life with your community members  for the spiritual renewal of each nation.

 Our Parish is committed to providing a safe place for all the faithful. Therefore, we follow a strict policy of The Essential Three for all who minister, work or volunteer in our parish. We ask for your cooperation and support. The safety of our community depends on all of us doing our part. Please visit the Diocesan Safe Environment page for more information: https://www.fallriverdiocese.org/office-of-safe-environment/  ⁰

Statement on Moral Concerns on Creating a Vaccine for COVID-19
Joint statement by the Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann, Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas and Chairman of the Pro-Life Activities Committee, and the Most Reverend Kevin C. Rhoades, Bishop of Fort Wayne-South Bend and Chairman of the Doctrine Committee, addressing moral concerns on creating a vaccine for COVID -19. 
www.usccb.org/moral-considerations-covid-vaccines

Sign of Peace
Due to recent events with the increasing number of virus cases (coronavirus and influenza), the Department of Public Health has taken basic measures to help prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory diseases. The main one is to keep our hands clean at all times and avoid waving hands or kisses. Let’s  give a sign of peace instead of hugs. https://www.mass.gov/info-details/what-should-i-know-about-flu

Hands free for driving * Hands free for worship
In Massachusetts, starting February 23, 2020 it is prohibited to drive with a cell phone in hand. Remember to turn off your cell phone before entering the Church.

Pray for vocations from our parish
Congratulations to Brother Jordan Zajac, son of Peter and Judith Zajac, who will be ordained a priest of the Dominican congregation on May 23, 2020; and Jeremías Carranza who is in formation for the Permanent Deacon. Let us pray for them and all the vocations in our Church so that their hearts are filled with the Spirit of Wisdom for the proclamation of the Gospel and bear witness to the presence of the Lord among us.
O Father, you desire all of us to be happy . Stir up the grace of a religious vocation in the hearts of many men and women.
Grant to them the willingness and generosity to give of themselves, their lives, their time and their talents to the service of Jesus Christ, Your Son, Our Lord and Savior, and to His Holy Church.
May more men and women go forth as priests, deacons, brothers and sisters to bring the truths of our Catholic faith to all others so that soon they, too, may know You better and love You more… and serving You, be truly happy . Amen.

Permanent Diaconate
Congratulations to Jeremias Carranza who is one of 15 candidates studying for the Permanent Diaconate of the Diocese of Fall River. Jeremías has just received the Ministry of Acolyte, which is the second of two ministries that candidates must receive and exercise as part of their preparation for ordination as a permanent deacon. Jeremías belongs to the tenth class for the Permanent Diaconate of the Diocese of Fall River and have been in the formation program for four years. He will continue with one more year of academic and pastoral formation before their ordination as deacon.

Notice
Speed bumps have been installed at the entrance of the parish parking lot. Please take precautions when entering or leaving the Church there may be children crossing. Thank you.
 
Safe Enviroment Training
Every volunteer and employee in the parish who works with children, are required to participate in the Safe Environment Training found online at: https://fallriver.cmgconnect.org  
The volunteer must complete the registration from any device ( cell phone , computer or tablet) with Internet access . Once completed , print the certificate and provide it to the parish. Then, they must complete a CORI Acknowledgement Form and provide a copy of a valid driver’s license or valid photo ID and a clear copy of the ID must accompany the CORI Acknowledgement Form . Any questions call the rectory.


DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER- OFFICE OF SAFE ENVIRONMENT
This June marks the 20th anniversary of the Charter for the Protection of Children and People, commonly referred to as the Dallas Charter.  The U.S. Bishops created this Charter in response to the clergy  sexual abuse crisis and revised it in 2005, 2011 and 2018. The  Charter created a set of procedures for handling allegations of sexual abuse of a minor, whether historical or current. It calls for  all allegations to be reported to local law enforcement, zero tolerance for clergy with credible allegations returning to ministry,  establishment of outreach and healing services for survivors. Some of the ways the Diocese of Fall River implements the Charter include: Mandates the Essential Three requirements (criminal background check, safe environment training, and code of conduct) for all who minister, work or volunteer in the Diocese. The Diocese of Fall River stands firm in its commitment to report abuse to law enforcement and cooperate with investigations. If you have been abused by someone representing the  Church (priest, deacon, religious, employee or volunteer), we  are sorry. We are here to listen and support you. You can report an incident of abuse by contacting local law enforcement directly and by contacting Diocesan Director of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance, Carolyn Shipp at 508-985-6508 (confidential voice mail) or [email protected] She can assist you in making a report and support you through the process. If you volunteer in any capacity, you must complete a CORI check.  Please see the church website: guadalupenewbedford.com for instructions and links OR visit: https://www.fallriverdiocese.org/office-of-safe-environment/


Low Gluten Host
To all parishioners who are on a low-gluten diet , we have low gluten hosts for communion. Those who wish, please talk with Father Pregana.

Faith Formation
Our parish faith formation program is cordinated by  Yaitza Mojica-Rodriguez, a parishioner, together with a group of volunteers. Thanks to them for their time and dedication in the important ministry of forming our young people in the faith! If you would like to offer your time to help form our young people, please talk to Yaitza.
 
Marriage
Couples who are planning to marry should contact the Father German no less than 6 months prior to the desired date. In addition, fulfill the requirements of attending Marriage Preparation classes, provide certificates of Baptism, and other requirements that will be explained during the first appointment.

Do you want to be Catholic? Now is the time!
The sessions for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults has begun for those who  wish to receive the Sacraments of Initiation in the spring. We welcome any adult (18+) who wishes to prepare for the Sacraments of Baptism, Communion and / or Confirmation. Please talk to Father German.

OLG Scholarship
Consider helping a child receive a catholic education at our parish School St. James St. John by making a donation to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Scholarship Program.  Let’s share the faith with the next generation!

Faith Formation General Information
First Communion classes include a 2 year program beginning in First Grade. Student must complete both years of this program before they are eligible to receive the Sacrament. Students in Catholic School need to register in 2nd grade.  All classes for Grades 1-7 are in the Parish Hall on Wednesday's from 5-6pm. Please don't forget to stamp your attendance sheet when you come to class.
The Confirmation Program called Chosen is a 2 year program beginning in 8th grade. Student must complete both years of this program before they are eligible to be confirmed. Registration and attendance is required even if the student attends a Catholic High School. Confirmation 1 and 2 classes are in the Parish Hall on Sunday's from 10-11am.

Registrations
St Teresa of Calcutta is now accepting registrations for the 2022-2023 school year for grades Preschool 3 through Grade 8.  We offer a rigorous academic program rooted in gospel values.  Our program also offers weekly classes in art, music, foreign language, technology, Physical education. In addition we offer before and after school extended care, a full-time nurse, peer tutoring, hot lunch program in a welcoming family atmosphere.  We are an accredited institution by NEASC.  Need based scholarship funds can be applied for through the FACE Scholarship Fund. Please contact the principal Cristina Viveiros-Serra at  [email protected] for more information or (508)996-0534  

Budget Envelopes vs. eGiving
Through the budget envelope company, the parish has arranged for online donations, an easy and economical way for your weekly offering.  It’s easy to sign up using your current budget envelope number.  For more information, visit the parish website.

Marriage Preparation
Those couples preparing to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage should schedule their Marriage Prep sessions online at the Diocesan website:  http://www.fallriverfaithformation.org/marriage/marriage-prep

Memorial Bequests
Those who wish to make a bequest to the parish may do so while living or through their will.  The bequest is free to estate tax and can reduce the amount of your assets claimed by the government.  A bequest can be a specific amount, a piece of property, a percentage of an estate, or the residue of an estate.  Your lawyer or estate planer can best assist you in remembering your parish.

Church Cleaning & Care
Thanks to the groups who have taken responsibility to keep our church clean.  Caring for God's house is our common effort, so thanks from the community!

Do you want to be Catholic?
Would you like to become part of the Church?  Would you like to complete your Sacraments (Communion, Confirmation)?  If so, you’re invited this fall to be part of the group who are preparing to receive the Sacraments at Easter.  The sessions are held on Sundays at 10AM in the church hall.  Please call the rectory, or talk to Juan and Margarita Ayala, to register. Make the decision this year!

Diocese & Community Related

Reading & Literacy Training

FACE
FACE financial aid deadline is on March 24Th, 2023. If you are planning on applying, please do so as soon as possible.  The website is https://online.factsmgt.com/aid They are asking for your W-2's and tax forms, and they will probably not be done by the deadline, but the application needs to be filled out, and the needed forms can be uploaded later.

Hope and Opportunity Initiative
The Foundation to Advance Catholic Education (FACE) and Diocese of Fall River Catholic Schools are excited to announce The Catholic School’s Hope and Opportunity Initiative. This Initiative will provide 100 scholarships for up to $2000 per student for the 2020-21 school year to new low-income K-8 students in Fall River, Taunton, and the Greater New Bedford Area Catholic Schools. If you, or someone you know, wants to send their child(ren) to a Catholic School please contact Sarah Heaton at (508)678-2828 or [email protected]

Bishop da Cunha’s new blog
Did you know that  Bishop da Cunha launched a blog called “Building Faith?” That’s right! With the intent of sharing regularly with the faithful of the Diocese in an easy and increasingly popular way, Bishop da Cunha hopes to post each week on a variety of topics of interest to our community of faith. Read Bishop da Cunha’s blog at  www.fallriverdiocese.org/bishops-blog/

DACA
On September 5, 2017, the President's administration announced that the DACA program was going to end. However, on January 13, 2018, U.S. Citizenship and Inmigrations Services (USCIS) announced that due to a federal court order, "USCIS has resumed accepting request to renew a grant of deferred under DACA" until further notice.
You need to know:
1- People who have EVER had (or currently have) DACA are allowed to file requests for DACA;
2- People who had their DACA terminated will be able to file requests for DACA;
3- People who NEVER had DACA will not be able to request DACA.
It is unclear how long this policy will continue- it could change any time. Therefore, it is recommended that all eligible individuals who had or have DACA to speak with a inmigration attorney immediatly to fing out what their rights are regarding this change in policy.
Catholic Social Services of Fall River may be able to help you with your application for free.CSS represents people on their DACA cases at no cost and has helped over 200 people with their applications. This service is only available to those who have ever had or currently have DACA. 
More information: Call Catholic Social Services, Fall River  (508) 674-4681

Pastoral framework for marriage and family life
This USCCB National Pastoral Framework will assist dioceses as local pastoral planning and implementation continue to take place since the publication of Amoris Laetitia. "Called to the Joy of Love" provides guidelines for the pastoral accompaniment of married couples and families at every stage of life, based on the teachings and recommendations contained in the apostolic exhortation. You can shop at www.store.usccb.org/ or download the PDF: https://www.usccb.org/topics/marriage-and-family-life-ministries/pastoral-framework-marriage-and-family-life- ministry

DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER - OFFICE OF SAFE ENVIRONMENT
This June marks the 20th anniversary of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Persons, commonly known as the Dallas Charter. The U.S. Bishops created this Charter in response to the clergy sexual abuse crisis and revised it in 2005, 2011, and 2018. The Charter created a set of procedures for handling allegations of sexual abuse of minors, whether historical or current. Calls for all allegations to be reported to local law enforcement, zero tolerance for clergy with credible allegations returning to ministry, establishment of outreach and healing services for survivors. Some of the ways the Diocese of Fall River implements the Charter include: Requiring compliance with the three essential requirements (criminal background check, safe environment training, and code of conduct) for all who minister, work, or volunteer in the Diocese. The Diocese of Fall River remains steadfast in its commitment to reporting abuses to law enforcement and cooperating with investigations. If you have been abused by someone who represents the Church (priest, deacon, religious, employee, or volunteer), we are sorry. We are here to listen and support you. You can report an incident of abuse by contacting local law enforcement directly and contacting the Diocesan Director of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance, Carolyn Shipp at 508-985-6508 (confidential voicemail) or [email protected] She can help you make a report and support you through the process. If you volunteer in any capacity, you must complete a CORI check. See church website: guadalupenewbedford.com for directions and links OR visit: https://www.fallriverdiocese.org/office-of-safe-environment/

ANNUAL DIOCESAN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
A special Mass celebrated by Bishop daCunha in thanksgiving for couples observing significant wedding anniversaries (including first year). This celebration will take place on Sunday, February 12th, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. at St. Mary Cathedral in Fall River. 

V ENCUENTRO MINISTRY SERIES
The V Encuentro Ministry Series launched in January of 2022. It provides online formation and professional development to Hispanic Ministry leaders of the Catholic Church. The Ministry Series is offered via live events and on-demand videos, focused on 28 Ministerial Area Sessions and includes a participant handbook.
Sessions Include:
Prayer and Reflection by a Bishop
Summary of Proceedings and Conclusions for Ministerial Area
Expert Presentation
Panel Discussion
Only $28 for all 28 Sessions in English and Spanish (56 Total)
To learn more: https://ms.vencuentro.org/faqs/?mc_cid=8a39e92f3f&mc_eid=a4abde7892 

MENTAL HEALTH MINISTRY 
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River is helping parishes within the Diocese to establish Mental Health Ministry. The MH Ministry, a national model, strives to provide a safe, supportive space for individuals who are experiencing mental illness , as well as providing support for their family members and caregivers. Parish Mental Health Ministries will also promote a non-judgmental environment, where isolation and stigma dissipate as a supportive community is created. For more information contact Rose Mary  Saraiva at 508-674-4681 Ext. 1111.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR CONSECRATED LIFE
World Day for Consecrated Life will be celebrated in the Church on Thursday, February 2, 2023, and in parishes over the weekend of February 4-5, 2023. Please pray for all those who have made commitments in the consecrated life, and be sure to thank them on their special day. May they continue to be inspired by Jesus Christ and respond generously to God's gift of their vocation. 

CURSILLO
Cursillo is a short course in Christianity. In Cursillo you can find Christ in a small Christian community. He can deepen our faith and strengthen our ability to share our faith with others. The courses are organized by Holy Cross Retreat House in Easton. The weekend runs from Thursday night to Sunday night. The cost is $195 per person. Financial aid is available.
The 2023 dates for Cursillo are:
Men: February 2-5 March 23-26
Women: February 23-26 April 20-23
For more information, contact Holy Cross Retreat House at (508) 238-2051 or www.retreathouse.org

A BIBLICAL WALK THROUGH THE MASS
The National Eucharistic Revival is an opportunity, a movement, to heal, unite, form and send out Catholics renewed by the Eucharistic Lord. As part of this, on February 15 at 6:30 p.m. m. EST, join Dr. Edward Sri for a free virtual webinar to learn about the importance of the Mass to Catholics and its Biblical roots. Dr. Sri is a well-known Catholic theologian, author, and speaker throughout the country and at Formed. He is the host of the acclaimed film series Symbolon: The Catholic Faith Explained and other training series, including A Biblical Walk Through Mass. He received his Ph.D. from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome, is an Adjunct Professor at the Augustine Institute, and Senior Vice President for Apostolic Outreach at FOCUS. To register for this free event, visit: https://bit.ly/ReviveDFR

SEAN FORREST & HAITI 180
A musician and former Steubenville Conference speaker, Sean Forrest is founder of Haiti 180: an organization on fire to help the impoverished island nation of Haiti. Sean and his group have built and now operate a vibrant orphanage, housing, feeding, and caring for children and villagers in desperate need of support. They have constructed a state-of-the-art school, are building a medical facility, and making plans for an elderly home.
To help raise support to feed people in Haiti impacted by a current food shortage, Sean will be speaking on Feb 16th at 6:30 PM at St Francis Xavier School Gym, Acushnet, and will offer a concert on Feb 17th at 7pm at St John Neumann Parish Hall, Freetown.

DIOCESE OF FALL RIVER
CONFERENCE OF WOMEN AND MEN 2023
It is not too early to make plans to attend the Diocese of Fall River sponsored Men's and Women's Conference, scheduled for Saturday, March 11, at Stonehill College in Easton. Presenters will be Mari Pablo of The Evangelical Catholic and Ascension Presents and Father Roger Landry, a priest from the Diocese of Fall River who serves as the National Eucharistic Preacher for the National Eucharistic Revival. The day includes prayer, music, time for reflection, multilingual sessions, lunch, vendors, and a 4 p.m. event. Closing Mass celebrated by Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V. Join Catholics across the Diocese for this day of renewal and spiritual enrichment during Lent. Registrations at https://bit.ly/23WMC

YES! RETREAT
The YES! Retreat is a three-day weekend retreat experience sponsored by the Secretariat for the New  Evangelization. The YES! Retreat provides high school youth an opportunity to encounter God through the sacraments, testimony, fellowship, and a closer examination of self and relationships with others. The experience allows young people to affirm their confirmation promises and return to their communities with renewed conviction and empowerment to bring Christ to others. The next retreat  will take place  Friday, March 17 until Sunday, March 19 at the La Salette Retreat Center in Attleboro. More information contact Oscar Rivera at [email protected]

MADE FOR LOVE PODCAST
"Made for Love" is a USCCB Catholic podcast that asks important questions about the call to love. Whether they're interviewing guests or discussing pop culture, tune in to learn a new aspect of what God created us to do. New episodes drop twice a month. For more information and to access the podcast, visit: www.marriageuniqueforareason.org/madeforlove/

REPORT OF THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS—FOR A SYNODAL CHURCH: COMMUNION, PARTICIPATION, AND MISSION
Access the Synod of Bishops report provided by the Diocese of Fall River at this link: www.fallriverdiocese.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Diocese-of-Fall-River-Synod-Report.pdf

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
There are several new job opportunities at different Catholic schools within the diocese. Share job openings with people you know and your community by accessing the Catholic Schools Alliance job opportunities page: www.catholicschoolsalliance.org/job-opportunities/

ASSOCIATION OF CATHOLIC GRANDPARENTS
The Catholic Grandparents Association is an international organization whose mission is to help grandparents pass on the faith and keep prayer at the heart of family life. To access their website, resources, and learn how to open a local chapter, visit: www.catholicgrandparentsassociation.org

Visit ForYourMarriage.org
For Your Marriage provides information, advice, and resources to engaged, engaged, and married couples and their families with reliable Catholic content true to Catholic teaching and God's plan for marriage and family. Here we share some tips to strengthen our relationship as a Catholic family during the holidays: Healthy Habits for the Family in the Summer
Do you want to learn how to be a missionary in your family and in your neighborhood? Visit portumatrimonio.org/fdm to download the free Families of Missionary Disciples guide in English and Spanish. The guide is based on the process of the V Encuentro, Evangelii Gaudium and Amoris Laetitia.
Do you know of someone suffering from domestic violence? Check this page with information and resources: https://www.portumatrimonio.org/vida-de-casados/la-violencia-domestica/

PRAYERS OF POPE FRANCIS
Use this book to pray with Pope Francis and reflect on how you can “communicate with God” in prayer, as Jesus did. Enjoy the Pope's reflections and meditations on Christ, his meditations on Mary, his prayers on special occasions and his petitions to God for the needs of the world. This book can be used as a meditation on prayer and to guide your own prayer time. Set aside a personal time for prayer and reflection, and dig deeper into this book! This companion prayer book will be a blessing for adults in faith formation, students, parents, teachers, as well as pastors, men and women religious, spouses, and all Catholics who want to grow in faith alongside Pope Francis. Visit: https://store.usccb.org/products/prayers-of-pope-francis

POCKET GOSPELS AND ACTS OF THE APOSTLES
Carry the Pocket Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles with you, and keep the Word of God as your constant guide and inspiration! Pope Francis has handed out thousands of paperback copies of the Gospels and Acts, asking the faithful to read a passage every day and saying, "This is the word of Jesus!" This durable paperback book contains all four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, and features a colorful Italian fresco as the cover. Practical and perfect for on the go, this little book is a practical and meaningful gift for all who strive to grow in their love and knowledge of God through the Scriptures. Visit: https://store.usccb.org/collections/liturgy/products/pocket-gospels-and-acts-of-the-apostles

BOOK OF MARY
This beautiful collection of Marian prayers affirms that "just as we honor the Mother, we also truly know the Son and give him love, glory and obedience."
This prayer book includes prayers to God, a prayer to Our Lady of Guadalupe, a prayer from the Maronite liturgy, Marian antiphons, traditional prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary, a prayer for vocations, intercessions, the "Akathist Hymn", litanies , a novena, the mysteries of the Rosary, suggested Bible readings, and more! The text of this edition has been updated to match the translations of the Roman Missal, Third Edition. This prayer book is ideal for anyone with a Marian devotion and will make a great addition to any Catholic's devotional prayer library. Visit: https://store.usccb.org/collections/liturgy/products/book-of-mary

V ENCOUNTER POCKET GOSPELS WITH ACTS OF THE APOSTLES
Take with you the Pocket Gospels with Acts of the Apostles and keep the Word of God as a continuous guide and inspiration! Pope Francis asked the faithful to read a passage each day, saying "this is the Word of Jesus."
Take this pocket book with you and read it anytime you have a few minutes a day. Visit: https://store.usccb.org/collections/bible/products/v-encuentro-evangelios-de-bolsillo-con-hechos-de-los-apostles

Pope Writes to Married Couples in the Year of “Amoris Laetitia Family”
The Holy Father, as part of the celebration of the Feast of the Holy Family, published a letter to married couples. In it, Pope Francis highlights the unique blessings and difficulties of married life and encourages married couples to always invite Jesus into their marriage. He urges engaged couples to move forward in their marriage plans despite the difficulties which have resulted from the pandemic. The Holy Father finally greets the elderly, and reminds everyone of the singular importance of grandparents in the life of the family. The entire letter can be accessed on the Vatican website: https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/letters/2021/documents/20211226-lettera-sposi-anno-famiglia-amorislaetitia.html

“Families are not a problem, they are above all an opportunity”
The USCCB National Pastoral Framework for Marriage and Family Life Ministry will assist dioceses as local pastoral planning and implementation continue to take place since the publication of Amoris Laetitia. "Called to the joy of love" offers guidelines for the pastoral accompaniment of married couples and families in all stages of life, based on the teachings and recommendations contained in the apostolic exhortation.
You can purchase https://store.usccb.org/collections/marriage-and-family/products/ named-to-the-joy-of-love-national-pastoral-framework-for-marriage-and-family-life - ministry

A Family of Faith Resources
St George Parish in Westport has copies of the Family of Faith curriculum from Sophia Institute Press that they are making available to anyone who can or is using the series. For more details, contact DRE Joy Viveiros at [email protected]

Book Review: Manual for Men
Manual for Men is designed to be just that: a manual for men on their quest for authentic masculinity. Beginning with the founding of Bishop Olmstead's Into the Breach, men can learn what they are called to as they fight Satan's war on masculinity and fatherhood. The second part of the book is organized in a way that can help men grow and work on specific aspects of masculinity and virtue. Organized by theme, men can look to the words of the Church for inspiration, or they can seek to develop their prayer life by trusting and learning the prayers provided.
Whether single, married, or celibate, a battle against masculinity is raging, and men can arm themselves by taking this Handbook for Men.

Rediscover Catholic Schools
The Diocese of Fall River's Catholic School Alliance has launched a "Rediscover Catholic Schools" campaign. Please click below and share this page and information with your parish and families to support our Catholic Schools. Visit: https://www.catholicschoolsalliance.org/rediscover-catholic-schools/   

Free at-home COVID-19 tests
As you may be aware, the government is supplying each household with 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests.  If you haven’t taken advantage of this opportunity, you can still order these tests at https://www.covidtests.gov/

New Permanent Diaconate Class Formation to Begin
His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, Bishop of Fall River, has authorized the formation of a new class of Permanent Deacons beginning in September 2022.
A series of Information Nights will be held in the months to come. Zoom sessions will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022, Monday, March 21, 2022, and May 29, 2022, from 7:00 – 8:30 pm.
In person sessions will be held on Monday, June 27, 2022, and Sunday, August 14, 2022, from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Registration is required and may be completed on our website. All the sessions cover the same material. If you are Interested in learning more about the process for becoming a deacon in the Diocese of Fall River, please join us for one these Information Nights.
You may register for one of these sessions by visiting our website –
frpermanentdiaconate.com. Those interested in pursuing a vocation to the diaconate, scheduled to begin the Aspirancy phase in September 2022, are invited to submit a preliminary application and a letter of support from your pastor. The deadline for submitting these materials to the Office of the Permanent Diaconate is August 1, 2022. Additional details and the preliminary application are available on
our website – frpermanentdiaconate.com.
If you have any questions, please contact Deacon Frank Lucca or Rev Robert Oliveira, Codirectors of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate at [email protected] or contact the Office of the Permanent Diaconate at 508-990-0341.

Marriage Preparation
Marriage Preparation continues to be offered through the Diocese in a hybrid fashion, now with trilingual options (English, Spanish, and Portuguese). Couples complete the USCCB approved "Living Our Faith in Love" preparation and are paired with a Diocesan mentor couple. Remarriage Preparation also continues to be offered for those couples who have completed the proper canonical process. For more information, email [email protected].

DIOCESAN MARRIAGE PREPARATION
The diocesan marriage preparation is shifting to a new form of preparation: At the Table. At the Table is a response to both the USCCB and Vatican's new frameworks for Marriage preparation to better accompany engaged couples over a period of time and build evangelizing relationships through in-person mentorship. If you have questions, please email [email protected] or [email protected]

Bereavement Support
The Diocese continues to offer online support groups. These online virtual programs are being offered through Catholic Social Services on Tuesdays. The links to register for either of the one-hour sessions are as follow: 4:30 P.M. - https://bit.ly/SupportGroup4 or 7:00 P.M. - https://bit.ly/SupportGroup7. In addition to the online sessions, one-on-one sessions are also offered via phone. For more information, contact Rose Mary Saraiva at 508-674-4681 Ext. 1111 or 774-253-4097, or by email at [email protected].

The Pastoral Framework for Marriage and Family Life
Has been published! "Called to the Joy of Love" provides guidelines for the pastoral accompaniment of married couples and families in every phase of life, drawing upon the teachings and recommendations contained in the apostolic exhortation, Amoris laetitia. You can purchase a hard copy in store.usccb.org  or download the PDF: https://www.usccb.org/resources/PastoralFrameworkforMarriageandFamilyLife_FINAL_for_UPLOAD_Jan2022.pdf


Need Marriage Help?
Retrouvaille (retro-vi) has helped tens of thousands of couples struggling in their marriage. For information, please visit www.HelpOurMarriage.org or call us at 508-271-7155. Next events: FEBRUARY 25-27, 2022, MAY 6-8, 2022, AUGUST 12-14, 2022, AND NOVEMBER 11-13, 2022.

A Year of St. Joseph
Pope Francis has proclaimed in his Apostolic Letter Patris Corde a special “Year of St. Joseph,” a wonderful opportunity to increase our love for St. Joseph, patron of both the Universal Church and of all families. The USCCB has compiled a hub of resources, catechetical materials, and prayers/devotions to assist in the ongoing celebration of this special year, and our podcast just covered it in its newest episode. Visit www.usccb.org/saint-joseph

Vianney Group Of Priestly Support
The Diocese of Fall River invites you to prayerfully consider joining The Vianney Group of Priestly Support who support our priests primarily by a once-per-month day of prayer and fasting. More information: www.fallriverclergysupport.org.

Building Faith at Home
Katie Warner is the author of several Catholic children's books, and producer of various resources for family faith, working with Catholics Come Home. To access go to: katiewarner.com

Do you want to learn how to be a missionary in your family and in your neighborhood?
Visit portumatrimonio.org/fdm to download the free Families of Missionary Disciples guide in English and Spanish. The guide is based on the process of the V Encuentro, Evangelii Gaudium and Amoris Laetitia.

V Encuentro Ministry Series
The V Encuentro Ministry Series launched in January of 2022. It provides online formation and professional development to Hispanic Ministry leaders of the Catholic Church. The Ministry Series will be offered via live events and on-demand videos, it will include a participant handbook, and an online community! It will cover 28 Ministerial Areas in English and Spanish.
Registration Now open visit the link bellow to register and also download the instructions on how to register for the Ministry Series and watch the video tutorials. https://ms.vencuentro.org/?mc_cid=944d380882&mc_eid=a4abde7892

Endow Today for the Future
If you could make just one gift that would continue to benefit your parish or a specific ministry each year for for many years to come – would you, do it?
When you endow your gift, you are instructing that your donation be invested on your behalf, to generate earnings from your donation this year and for every year to come – benefitting your parish or selected ministry forever! Permanently endowed donations are wisely invested for maximum total return. That growth translates to improved financial sustainability for our Catholic parishes and ministries in the Diocese of Fall River.
To learn more about making a gift today to establish a permanently restricted endowment with the Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts, please email [email protected]

The Catholic Guild for the Blind
The Catholic Guild for the Blind is organizing a Rosary and Social Hour through a conference call. The rosary and social hour will be offered twice a month on the first Thursday of each month at 1:00 p.m. and the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. All are invited to join the Guild as they come together to pray for those in need and for a renewed sense of purpose. To join any of the calls, dial 1-774-462-3143 and enter the PIN number 8916. More information: Cynthia Stead at 508-771-6771 or Martha Reed at 508-674-4681.

Bereavement Support
The Diocese continues to offer online support groups and hopes to begin offering live sessions in the Spring. These online virtual programs are being offered through Catholic Social Services on Tuesdays. The links to register for either of the one-hour sessions are as follow: 4:30 PM - https://bit.ly/SupportGroup4 or 7 PM - https://bit.ly/SupportGroup7. Please note there will be no online sessions on December 21st and 28th, 2021, but will resume on January 4th, 2022. In addition to the online sessions, one-on-one sessions are also offered via phone. For more information, contact Rose Mary Saraiva at 508-674-4681 Ext. 1111 or 774-253-4097, or by email at [email protected]

Pax Christi Group
Pax Christi is an international Catholic peace movement that promotes peace, respect of human rights, justice, and reconciliation throughout the world. The roots of Pax Christi originated in France when French Catholics began to pray and work for reconciliation and a rebuilding of relationships in Europe after World War II. Grounded in the belief that peace is possible, and that vicious cycles of violence and injustice can be broken, Pax Christi, through prayer, study, and action, addresses the root causes & destructive consequences of violent conflict and war. The local Pax Christi group at La Salette meets on the Third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM in the Chapel of Reconciliation. For more information, email Elaine at [email protected]

Seniors Foster Grandparent Program
Join the Seniors Foster Grandparent Program sponsored by Coastline, to assist in classrooms around the South Coast. Open to volunteers 55+ and who meet eligibility requirements. Contact Jaqueline Medeiros at 508-742-9198 or email at [email protected]

Family Love: Vocation And Path To Holiness
Family Love: Vocation and Path to Holiness is the official prayer for the Tenth World Meeting of Families and can be said in honor of the Amoris Laetitia Family Year. The prayer thanks God for the gift of family and asks God that families would be witnesses to the love of Christ. Pray for an increase in love and holiness in the family with this meaningful prayer card! Available in English and Spanish. https://store.usccb.org/

Health and Wellness
The Catholic Schools Office is pleased to launch a Health and Wellness section on the Catholic School's website. Please check this site often as we add more information about maintaining the health and safety of our students in our schools.
https://www.catholicschoolsalliance.org/health-and-wellness/

Family Prayer for Vocations
Strengthen the gift of prayer for religious and priestly vocations coming from all communities that make up the Catholic Church in the United States! These prayers implore God’s grace for parents and children and seek God’s grace in whatever vocation the Lord may call one’s children to. store.usccb.org

Suicide Bereavement Support Group
Every First Tuesday of the month this group provides a safe, confidential, and supportive setting for anyone who has experienced the loss of a family member or friend due to suicide. To register: http://child-familyservices.org/Virtual-Suicide-Bereavement-Group/

The Woman’s Journey: Healing Together
A sacred space for becoming empowered while we explore the impacts of sexual violence and trauma in one’s life. Facilitated by Kelley Cabral-Mosher. Saturdays, 9: 15- 10:30 AM. No fee & in person monthly June 2022. Where: YWCA in New Bedford. More information: [email protected] or call 508-999-3255.

World Youth Day 2023 
World Youth Day will take place from Aug 1-6, 2023, in Lisbon, Portugal. The Diocese will be organizing a group to attend and is collecting contact information for those wanting to learn more. Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf-iQi8oD80yw2wgRdAzvVY_YJZzTUJZS_s8OmI6U5X2hNlxQ/viewform

Support for Victims of Domestic Violence
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. On the resource page on the website you will find prayers, flyers, brochures, articles, videos, a toolkit, the bishops' pastoral letter against domestic violence, and the national help line / website. Visit: www.portumatrimonio.org

The Home Project
The Home Project provides low-income families transitioning from homelessness with recycled household goods, small furniture, and small appliances necessary to live with comfort and dignity.  Currently, there is an extremely urgent need for microwaves, toasters, brooms & dust pans, vacuums, and bathroom accessories (waste baskets, shower curtains/rods/rings, etc.). To donate please contact Jeannie Bettencourt, Outreach Coordinator, 774-328-2043.

Open Wide Our Hearts:The Enduring Call to Love
The Catholic bishops of the United States invite the reader to recognize the ways in which the evil of racism profoundly impacts the lives of many people in the United States. store.usccb.org

The Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents
The Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents in partneship with the Archidiocese of Boston is serving spiritual needs of parents whose children of any age have died by any cause, no matter how long. They offer one-hour, one-day and weekend spritual retreats. For more information: www.emfgp.org.

Can you say yes?
Sister Rose Shelter is in need of volunteers for its Extre Weather Emergency Overflow Shleter house beginning in November. Orientation is provided and you can sign up as yourself or as a group. Contact Robin Muise 774-553-5990 or [email protected]

Project Rachel
If you are hurting from a past abortion experience,does not matter is you are women o men, Project Rachel can help. Rachel is a private, confidential and sensitive service that will refer you to a priest and/or counselor with special training. Call 1-508-997-3300 or [email protected]

Retrouvaille
A program to help couples heal and renew their marriages.  If you feel lost, alone, or bored in your marriage; if you are constantly fighting, or simply “shut down”; if you are considering separation or divorce, Retrouvaille provides marriage help! For more information call:  1-800-470-2230, or visit: www.HelpOurMarriage.com

Retreats:

• Click here for more retreats at LaSalette

Prayer Groups (English)

• Disciples with Mary: Saturdays at 9AM in the Chapel. Join us!