From the Desk of the Pastor

Dear Parishioners of OLM & OLS,

Viva Senor Sto Nino!!!! Today, we celebrate with the devotees of Sto. Nino both here in the United States and back in the Philippines. During my travels to the Philippines I have had the privilege of participating in the various celebrations of Sto. Nino. From Cebu to Kalibo to Iloilo, it seems that Sto. Nino is celebrated from now until almost the beginning of Lent.

I have always been amazed and inspired by the devotion rendered to the Infant Savior. Almost every household displays an image of Sto. Nino.

Today, devotees of Sto. Nino bring their images to the 12 noon Mass at OLM. I will bless them as they are carried in festive procession leading all to the Maria Room for fellowship.

As we give this outward praise and homage to the Son of God may we keep the fervor alive in our hearts and homes.

Please take the time to view the exhibitions prepared by Father Ralph and his committee. In this “Year of the Priest,” the focus of the exhibition is on the celebration of the First Masses in the Philippines.

VIVA SENOR STO. NINO!!!!!!!

Now, let us move from the sacred to the secular. One of our parishioner families approached me recently with a painless, effortless, fund raising possibility. H & R Block has a program for ‘not for profit’ organizations. H & R Block is willing to contribute $25 to a registered organization for every new customer. The terms are these: the organization must register with H & R Block [I have done that]; the subscriber must be a NEW customer of H & R Block; the subscriber must present an authorized coupon at the time of contract [a copy is in the bulletin today].

Now, please HEAR ME AND HEAR ME CORRECTLY. In NO WAY am I endorsing the services of H & R Block over any other company. I am simply taking advantage of a fund raising opportunity offered by the company. You are completely free to use whatever method you choose in the preparation of your income tax.

Speaking of Income Tax, those who wish a summary of their Stewardship of Treasure for the Calendar Year 2009 may receive that by either calling Marie Dougherty Monday to Friday during the hours of 9am and 3pm at 201|434|7500 OR you may make your request via e-mail at OLMJCNJ@AOL.COM.

My love and prayers,

Father Jack