Coffee and Donuts - All are invited to the Social Hall today after both the 8:00 and the 10:00AM Masses for coffee and donuts. Access through door via the side alley.
Ash Wednesday - Feb. 10
7:00AM - Blessing / Distribution of Ashes and Low Mass
7:00PM - Distribution of Ashes / Sung Mass
For those unable to attend Mass who would like to receive Ashes, the office will be open from 12 - 3pm as well.
Laws of Fast and Abstinence - At the back of the church are the traditional and current laws of fast and abstinence. Please take one. Note that under the current laws of the Church, Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of Fast and Abstinence. Additionally, every Friday in Lent is a day of Abstinence.
Stations of the Cross - Stations of the Cross will be said in the church every Friday during Lent.
Lenten Retreats - We will offer two day long retreats during Lent.
Each retreat will begin at 8:00am with Adoration / Mass and will include a few conferences given by Fr. Eichman, Confession, Stations of the Cross and periods of time for silent prayer. Breakfast and Lunch will be provided. Registration will be held Sunday, February 14th after the 8AM and 10AM Masses in the Vestibule. Registration fee is $15 per person. The retreat is open to people 18 or older. If any persons under 18 would like to attend please contact Fr. Eichman.
First Communicants - Important Dates:
Saturday, April 16th -1st Confessions
Sunday, May 22nd - 1st Communions at 10AM Mass
Please contact Fr. Eichman or the office if you have a child who is preparing to receive their First Communion this year. Fr. Eichman will be interviewing each child in the weeks prior to 1st Confession, and again prior to their 1st Communion.
Youth Group Evening - Our next Youth Group event will be on Saturday, February 27, from 6PM - 9PM. The Youth Group is open to young people ages 13 - 18. Come and bring a friend. For more information contact us at youthgroup@materdeipa.com
Chorister Program Sponsor - Mater Dei has begun a children’s chorister program which will teach the children to sing Gregorian Chant and other sacred music. The Choristers will sing at a number of Masses and liturgical events throughout the year. This initiative does come with moderate expenses. If you are interested in covering these costs please contact Fr. Eichman.
Food for the Needy - The Holy Name Society collects non-perishable food for the Silence of Mary Homes, who then distribute this food to the needy in Harrisburg. To contribute, please add your gift of food in the straw basket located behind the last pew. Thank you!
2015 IRS Tax Letter - If you would like a 2015 tax letter please contact the office and we will mail you one by the end of January.
Stay Home if Sick - If you are sick and contagious, it is not necessary to come to Mass. In such instances, it is an act of charity toward your fellow parishioners, especially those more susceptible to illness, to remain at home.
Mass Intentions - The current wait for public Mass intentions is shorter than that for private Mass intentions. Keep this in mind when designating how you would like your Mass intentions fulfilled.