What is the purpose of the Offertory? At Mass, we have a formal expression of the giving of ourselves during the Rite of Preparation of the Gifts. This follows the Liturgy of the Word, including the Creed and the Prayer of the Faithful. We have expressed our openness to the Word of God and our Faith in the Holy Trinity revealed in the Church and our realization that we have a duty to pray for the Church and for the whole world. Now we put our words of commitment into action. The Liturgy of the Mass has a precise flow to it. We are formed as the Body of Christ through Word and Sacrament. The Liturgy of the Eucharist first gathers the elements that are required for the Sacramental action that makes Christ Himself present to us. It is not a matter simply of bringing forward the bread and wine that will become the Body and Blood of Christ. It is a question of bringing our whole persons to the celebration and the sacrifice. The Collection from ancient times was seen as having two primary purposes: bringing forward what is needed by the priest to make Christ present and, at the same time, bringing forward what is meant to...Read remainder below.
Bring your friends and the whole family for a fun-filled day of activities. We'll have hayrides, music, pumpkin bowling, lawn games, food, and so much more!
The Knights of Columbus are providing delicious grilled meats, but please bring a side dish to share, according to the first letter of your last name: A - I: Side Dish | J - R: Salad | S - Z: Desserts
If you're a baker, make sure you show off your skills in our pie contest! We have four categories: Creamy & Classic (custard pies), Savory Showstoppers (savory pies), Fruit Favorites (fruit pies), and Junior Bakers (pies made by bakers under 18). Prove that your pie is the greatest of them all!
What is My Next Step?
Over the past few weeks, we have looked at what offertory is, why Catholics give, what our regular giving makes possible, and how giving is connected to discipleship. Now there is one final question for each of us: What is my next step?
Our recent generosity to the Annual Appeal was an extraordinary response to an important need. Now we are asking something different: not for another special gift, but for each household to prayerfully consider the regular offertory that sustains St. Edward throughout the year.
This week, we invite every St. Edward household to take a few minutes to Look. Pray. Decide.
LOOK at what you currently give to St. Edward. Is it occasional or regular? When was the last time you intentionally considered the amount?
PRAY about your giving. Thank God for what has been entrusted to you and ask how He may be calling you to respond.
DECIDE on your next step. It may be beginning to give regularly, becoming more consistent, increasing an existing gift, moving to recurring electronic giving, or continuing at your current level with renewed intention.
Sub Night This Weekend?
This weekend, September 26-27, the Knights of Columbus are holding a sub sale fundraiser. Delicious turkey and Italian subs will be available for purchase after all Masses. Take the night off from cooking, and support our local Knights of Columbus council!
The St. Edward Pro-Life Ministry's annual poster contest is still accepting submissions through September 30. Artists in grades K-12 are invited to submit an original 9x12" poster illustrating the theme, Every Life is a Gift. Winning posters will be displayed in October for Respect Life Month, and winners from each grade level will receive cash prizes. Don't miss this chance to share your talents and draw attention to the beauty of life! More details and the entry form can be found in the bulletin.
Make Time for Our Lord
Our next Musical Holy Hour is coming up! Stop by on Monday, September 28 between 7 and 8 pm to spend some quality time in prayer. Various styles of worship music will be provided to contribute to a reverent environment. Can't make it? We have Musical Holy Hours on the last Monday of each month—mark your calendar for the next one on October 26. You are also welcome to stop by silent Adoration, which takes place every Monday between 6 am and 10 pm. We hope to see you there!
Special Programming for Seniors
Prayer for St. Edward the Confessor Strategic Plan
Living God, You call us to be disciples of Jesus Christ, Your only Son, and to be guided by the Holy Spirit. Lead us on this journey of discernment and discovery as the Parish of Saint Edward the Confessor, freeing us to live the Faith we profess and to serve as Your witnesses in our community. Open our hearts to the voice of the Good Shepherd, who gathers us as His flock. Help us welcome all others, serve those in need, and grow in holiness. Send Your Holy Spirit upon us and lead us forward in Hope. Amen.