St. Francis of Assisi Parish | Blog

Norma Davida Lofland

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:24:41 GMT

Norma D. (Vosburgh) Lofland, 73, of Springfield, MA passed away peacefully at home on February 15, 2026.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Norma's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation March 8th 3pm-5pm at Beers & Story Funeral Home in Belchertown, Funeral Mass March 9th 11am at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown. Burial will take place with her parents at Oak Knoll Cemetery in Palmer.

For more information please see here.

Ann E. Lebrun

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:15:18 GMT

Ann Elizabeth (Connally) LeBrun, passed away on February 12, 2026, at the age of 63.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Ann's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and again from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

A Funeral Mass will take place the following morning at 11:00 AM. Burial will be held at a later date.

For more information please see here .

Gilles Gagnon

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:01:27 GMT

Gilles Andre Gagnon, age 92, died peacefully at home on February 7, 2026, in Belchertown, Massachusetts

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Gilles' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Calling hours are Saturday, February 21st from 9:00 to 10:30 A.M. Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home.

A funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday, February 21st 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Gill’s life. Burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be offered to the American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/ . For more information please visit www.beersandstory.com

Douglas J. Rogers

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 20:24:05 GMT

Douglas J. Rogers, of South Windsor, CT passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 16, 2025.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Douglas' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

On January 12, 2026 a memorial Mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown at 11:00 am. Followed by a Celebration of Life at McCarthy's Pub in Belchertown.

Mary T. Kos

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 15:04:00 GMT

It is with deep sadness and great love that we announce the peaceful passing of Mary T (Kusek) Kos on October 9, 2025.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Mary's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Services will be held Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Motyka Funeral Home, 2186 Main St. Three Rivers, MA. There will be a calling hour from 9AM-10AM, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at St Francis of Assisi Parish, 24 Jabish St, Belchertown at 11AM, and Saint Peter and Paul Cemetery, Fuller Rd, Palmer.

Anita Coulombe

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 14:53:30 GMT

Anita C. (Roy) Coulombe, entered eternal rest on Sept. 12, 2025, at the age of 92, at home with her son Roy by her side.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Anita's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A calling hour will be held on Mon., Sept. 22, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. This will be followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30 AM at St. Francis Church. Burial will be private, at the family's request.

For more information see here .

Patricia Skaza

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 18:55:49 GMT

Patricia (Barney) Skaza, passed away on August 31, 2025, at the age of 77 in New Bedford, MA.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Patricia's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

The Funeral Mass in Patricia's honor will take place on

Saturday, September 13th, at 10:00 AM at St. Francis Church,

with burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery in Chicopee.

For more information see Legacy.com

Marilyn Brunelle

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 23:23:25 GMT

Marilyn R. (Claus) Brunelle, 84, of South Hadley, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Pioneer Valley Nursing Home in South Hadley.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Marilyn's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Calling Hours for Marilyn will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 4:00pm – 6:00 pm in Charbonneau Funeral Home, 30 Pleasant Street, Ware, MA 01082.

A Funeral Service will be held the following morning, on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 10:00 am in Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, 24 Jabish Street, Belchertown, MA 01007.

Entombment will be held at 12:30 pm in St. Michael's Cemetery, 1601 State Street, Springfield, MA 01109, following the church service.

An online tribute page is available at www.charbonneaufh.com .

Jean Baptiste Bangoret

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:11:19 GMT

Jean Baptiste Bangoret

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Jean's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Memorial Mass will be held in his honor at St. Francis of Assisi, where family and friends will gather to celebrate his life on Saturday, July 5th at 1:00pm.

Elizabeth Smola

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:40:35 GMT

Elizabeth Smola passed away earlier this year.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Elizabeth's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Memorial Mass will be held in her honor at St. Francis of Assisi, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her life on June 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

Wilfrid V. Roy

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:40:06 GMT

Wilfrid Victor Roy (“Will” or “Bee”), 77, of Belchertown, MA, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Mercy Medical Center.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Wilfrid's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, June 22nd from 1:00–4:00 PM at the Beers & Story South Hadley Funeral Home, 646 Newton Street.

On Monday, June 23rd, family and friends are welcome to gather at the funeral home at 8:30am for a funeral procession to St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown for a 10:00am Funeral Mass.

Burial will immediately follow at West Street Cemetery in Granby.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Theresa Simone Murray

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:09:52 GMT

Theresa Simone Murray, born Pepin on August 24, 1934, in Chicopee, MA, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, at the Arbors in Westfield.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Theresa's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Memorial Mass will be held in her honor at St. Francis of Assisi, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her life and legacy on April 28, 2025 at 11am.

Click here for more information.

Sheilamae M. Cole

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 23:07:10 GMT

Sheilamae M. (Marchessault) Cole, 86, of Ware, MA, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on April 4, 2025.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Sheilamae's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

The family will receive family and friends on

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

Visitation will be at Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis Church in Belchertown at 12:30 pm, with Interment to follow at South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Click here for more information.

James L. Scott

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:12:21 GMT

James Leonard Scott, 78, passed away March 25, 2025, at his home with his wife by his side.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May James' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 14, 2025 from 9:30-10:30am at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. Francis of Assisi. Burial will immediately follow in New St. Williams Cemetery in Ware.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Patricia A. Squires

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 17:23:41 GMT

On February 24, 2025, six days after her 85th birthday, Patricia Ann (DeSantis) Squires passed away at Cooley Dickinson Hospital following a brief illness.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Patricia's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 28, 2025

at St. Francis Church, 24 Jabish St., Belchertown from

9:00 to 11:00 A.M. followed by the Liturgy of Christian burial at 11:00 A.M.

Burial will follow in South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Click here for more information.

Thomas T. Soja

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 13:52:25 GMT

Thomas T. Soja, 82, of Belchertown passed away unexpectedly on March 4, 2025 surrounded by his loved ones.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Tom's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 12 from 9:30-11:30 am at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home with a Funeral Mass at 12pm at St. Francis Church. Burial will be at the MA Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at 2pm.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Denise O. Cote

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 19:48:43 GMT

With great sorrow, we announce the passing of Denise O. (Grondin) Cote, who peacefully passed away surrounded by her family on February 10th, 2025, at Mercy Medical Center.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Denise's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home during calling hours on Wednesday, February 19th, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30 AM at St. Francis Church. Following the Mass, the burial will take place at West Cemetery in Granby.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Dennis Riel

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 22:20:51 GMT

Dennis Louis Riel, 72, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Dennis' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A calling hour to honor Dennis' memory will be held on Monday, February 17th, from 9:00am -10:00am at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30am at St. Francis Church, Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Veronica C. Shea

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 16:29:59 GMT

Veronica C. Shea (née Higgins), born April 7, 1941, in Holyoke, MA, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025, in Springfield, MA.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Veronica's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be on February 6 from 4 PM to 7 PM at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St.

A Funeral Mass will be conducted on February 7 at 11 AM at

St. Francis of Assisi Church, 24 Jabish St in Belchertown, followed by her interment at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Gerald J. Millen

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 19:03:10 GMT

Gerald "Jerry" J. Millen, 84, passed away January 26, 2025.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Jerry's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 1-3 pm at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home.

Family and friends are invited to join the funeral procession on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 11 am to St. Francis of Assisi Church, where Jerry’s life will be celebrated with a Funeral Mass at 12pm.

Burial will follow at the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at 2 pm.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Michael J. Lamoureux

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 22:43:19 GMT

Michael J. Lamoureux passed away on December 15, 2024, surrounded by his loving family in Wilbraham, Massachusetts.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Michael's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A celebration of Michael’s life will commence with a period of visitation on Monday, December 23, 2024, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Parish.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Karol Wozniak

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 18:54:04 GMT

Karol Wozniak

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Karol's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation at Beers and Story Funeral Home, Belchertown, MA. Tuesday December 3rd 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

A funeral mass will be held immediately following at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown, MA

Burial to follow at Saint Stanislaus cemetery, Chicopee, MA

Frances E. Genereux

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 20:33:12 GMT

Frances E. (Wilson) Genereux, 89, passed away November 16, 2024, at River Mills Assisted Living in Chicopee.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Frances' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Services will be held Friday, November 22, 2024 at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Belchertown with a period of visitation from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

A funeral mass will be directly following visitation at 11:00 am.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Monica N. Ouellette

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 12:37:52 GMT

Monica N. Ouellette of Belchertown was called home on October 12, 2024 at the age of 90.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Monica's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Services will be held Saturday, October 23, 2024 at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Belchertown with a period of visitation from 9-10am.

A funeral mass will be directly following visitation at 10:00 am.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Walter Miffitt

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 01:30:03 GMT

Walter J. Miffitt, 85, died peacefully on September 23, 2024, at the Veterans' Home in Holyoke, MA.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Walter's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Donald R. Como

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 01:21:45 GMT

Donald "Don" R. Como, 91, passed away on October 3, 2024.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Donald's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Brian O'Leary

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 13:33:07 GMT

Brian L. O'Leary, 85, passed away on September 24, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Brian's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Lawrence M. Sturup

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:10:56 GMT

Lawrence M. "Larry" Sturup, 75, passed away peacefully at home July 24, 2024 with his loving wife by his side.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May Angel's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, July31, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Angel Burgos

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 17:55:15 GMT

Angel Burgos, age 65, passed away peacefully at Baystate Medical Center.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May Angel's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Monday, July 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

George Rivest

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 18:57:21 GMT

George W. Rivest, 83, peacefully passed away on June 16, 2024, in Springfield, MA.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May George's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Monday, June 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Ronald Akins

Sat, 18 May 2024 22:59:43 GMT

Ronald Akins, 87, passed away peacefully May 16, 2024, at home with the love of his family surrounding him.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May Ronald's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Caroline E Joyal

Wed, 01 May 2024 14:12:02 GMT

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Caroline E. Joyal on April 21th, 2024 with his loving family by her side.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May Caroline's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Monday, April 29, 2024

at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Ronald Gerard Proulx

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 13:54:37 GMT

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Gerard Proulx on April 6th, 2024 with his loving family by his side.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May Ronald's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Friday, April 12, 2024

at 9:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Sr. Jeanne T. Hubert

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 01:15:35 GMT

Sister Jeanne T. Hubert, 93, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2024.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May Sister Jeanne's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Monday, March 4 at 10 a.m.

at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Gloria J. Fradette

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 01:04:31 GMT

Gloria J. (Sedelow) Fredette, 80, passed away at her home on February 23, 2024.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May Gloria's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, February 28, 2024

at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Thomas Anthony Curto Jr.

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 13:46:08 GMT

Thomas A. Curto Jr., 75, passed away February 19, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May Tom's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Martha E. Fredenburgh

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 09:42:00 GMT

Martha E. Fredenburgh, 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family at Baystate Medical Center on January 18, 2024.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May Martha's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, February 3, 2024 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

David S. Paul

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 10:32:00 GMT

David S. "Dave" Paul, 78, passed away January 17, 2024 with his loving wife by his side.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May David's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Kathleen A. Francis

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 14:45:00 GMT

Kathleen A. Francis passed away peacefully on January 13, 2024 at Baystate Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May Kathleen's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Friday, January 19, 2024 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Dr. Lawrence Roberge

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 10:22:00 GMT

Dr. Lawrence Roberge, age 64, passed away unexpectedly on Dec 14, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may Lawrence's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Friday, December 22, 2023 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Sampson Funeral Chapel.

Ellen R. Campbell

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 14:05:00 GMT

Ellen (Real) Campbell, 69, died at home on December 13, 2023, due to complications from ALS. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Ellen's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church, on Wednesday December 20, 2023 at 11 A.M.

Friends and family may meet at the funeral home at 10 A.M.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Rita M. Butler

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:15:00 GMT

Rita M. Butler, 96, passed away at Vantage of Wilbraham on October 21, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Rita's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Robert "Bob" L. Methot

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:09:00 GMT

Robert "Bob" L. Methot passed away on his 82nd birthday October 17, 2023 succumbing to several debilitating diseases.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may Robert's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Lauren N. Surprenant

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 09:52:00 GMT

Lauren N. Surprenant , 34, passed away unexpectedly in the arms of her parents while surrounded by their love on October 9, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Lauren's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home

Obituary for Nancy Piesz

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:34:00 GMT

Nancy Piesz, 72, passed away at her home on September 16, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Nancy's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi in Belchertown with burial to follow in South Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Anna Lipinski

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 09:41:00 GMT

Anna Elizabeth (Nadolna) Lipinski, 83, died Sunday morning, August 20, 2023 at her home in Indianapolis. Anna was a long-time communicant of St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church before moving to Indianapolis.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Anna's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 10:00 am in St Francis of Assisi Church, 24 Jabish Street, Belchertown, Massachusetts, followed by burial in Mater Dolorosa Cemetery, South Hadley, Massachusetts.

Click here for more information from Flanner Buchanan Funeral Center.

Obituary for Robert Dewhurst

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 11:43:00 GMT

Robert Alan Dewhurst, 69, passed away on September 8, 2023 at Baystate Medical Center, leaving behind his beloved wife of 39 years, Darlene.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may Robert's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be held Monday Sept 18th from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home with a memorial Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Church.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Catherine Ferenz

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:26:00 GMT

Catherine R. Ferenz, 77, passed away August 21, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Catherine's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, Aug. 28th at 10am at St. Francis Church. Burial will follow in Quabbin Park Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Edna Tetrault

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 09:07:00 GMT

Edna Ann (Mattoon) Tetrault, 88, passed away surrounded by her loving family at home on August 1, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Edna's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, August 10, 2023, at 10:00a.m. at St. Francis Church. Burial will follow in South Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for David Barszcz

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 21:29:00 GMT

David M. Barszcz, 70, passed away unexpectedly on July 24, 2023 of cardiac arrest after a heroic battle with esophageal cancer.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may David's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Tuesday, August 1 from 4-7pm at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held Wednesday August 2 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Please gather directly at the church. Military honors and rites of committal will take place at 1pm at the MA Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Laurina Brighenti

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 21:24:00 GMT

Laurina H. (Gibbs) Brighenti, 89, passed away on July 26, 2023 after an extended illness, during which time she received loving care from her family.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Laurina's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be from 4-7 pm on Sunday, August 6, 2023 at Beers & Story Funeral Home in Belchertown. Family and friends may gather at the funeral home on Monday, August 7 at 9 am for a procession to St. Francis Church for a Funeral Mass at 10 am with burial immediately following at South Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Joe Fedora

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 08:23:00 GMT

Joseph Fedora, 85, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on July 8, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may Joe's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visiting hours will be held at Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home on Monday, July 17th between 9:00am – 10:30am, followed by a liturgy of Christian burial at 11:00 am, at St Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown. Burial will follow at South Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Lynne McMillan

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:11:00 GMT

Lynne (Boilard) McMillan, 66, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on April 9, 2023 after a two year battle with cancer.

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, and may Lynne's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, April 16, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Beers & Story, 10 Maple St., Belchertown, MA. A Funeral Mass will be held on April 17, 2023 at 11:30 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 24 Jabish St., Belchertown, MA. Burial will be private.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Ed Lattrell

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 08:16:00 GMT

Edward Lattrell, better known as Ted, and husband of Alice (Bovat), passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

Eternal rest, grant unto him, O Lord, and may Ted's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Wednesday March 22nd from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home with a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Burial will be private.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Julia Haynes

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 11:05:00 GMT

Julia Carolyn Haynes was called home by the Lord on March 3rd, 2023 after an 18-month battle with medulloblastoma – a form of brain cancer. Julia was 13 years old.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Julia's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

All are invited to attend a wake which will be held Friday, March 10 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A celebration of life which will be held Saturday, March 11 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Kindly meet directly at the church. Guests are encouraged to wear purple, Julia’s favorite color and come dressed casually, as Julia didn’t like dressing up!

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Gloria Adzima

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 16:45:00 GMT

Gloria (Mauri) Adzima passed away peacefully at home on Monday, February 20, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Gloria's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 23rd, from 4:00 - 8:00 at Beers and Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St, Belchertown. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, February 24th, at 11:00 at St. Francis of Assisi, 24 Jabish St, Belchertown followed by burial in South Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Annual Creche Lighting Service - 2022

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 13:25:00 GMT

Annual Creche Lighting
December 6, 2022

If you missed our annual Creche Lighting Service on Tuesday evening, click on the link to see the video.

We had a wonderful turnout for this beautiful Advent tradition.

Special thanks to our religious education team - Linda Racicot and Melissa Hurst - for organizing this event.

Creche Lighting 2022 Video

Obituary for Mary Rochon

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 07:32:00 GMT

Mary Teresa Rochon, 58, passed away December 1, 2022 at the Center for Extended Care in Amherst, where she has resided since 2019.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Mary's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday morning, December 8, 2022 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi in Belchertown, with burial to follow at South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Leonard Bourk

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 14:27:00 GMT

Leonard F. Bourk, 93, passed away peacefully, at home with his family, on November 12, 2022.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Leonard's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A calling hour will be held on Monday, November 21, 2022, from 10:30-11:30 am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30 am; both services will be held at St. Francis Church, Belchertown. The burial service will be held in St. Michaels Cemetery in Springfield.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home .

Obituary for Maureen Helen Saltis

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 08:22:00 GMT

Maureen H. (Russell) Saltis, 72, passed away at home with the love of her family surrounding her.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Maureen's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 17 from 5-7 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be Friday, November 18 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis Church with burial to follow at Lake Vale Cemetery. Kindly meet directly at the church.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home .

Obituary for Stanley Libucha

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 10:50:00 GMT

After a courageous battle with ALS, Stanley H. Libucha of Belchertown passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 27, 2022 at the age 84, with his family by his side.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Stanley's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, November 4, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Beers & Story Funeral Home, Maple St., Belchertown. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, November 5, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Belchertown. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. to form the funeral procession to the church. Burial with military honors immediately following at St. Anne’s Cemetery, Main Street, Three Rivers.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Chalice of Salvation Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Parish

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 15:31:00 GMT

Obituary for Wilfred Groux

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:58:00 GMT

Wilfred A. Groux, 94, passed away September 18, 2022.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Wilfred's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A calling hour will be held on September 29th from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi and can also be attended virtually by visiting https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/4423225119 . Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the MA Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Clement Lemelin

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 07:31:00 GMT

Clement Paul Lemelin, 78, passed away September 15, 2022 at home surrounded by his family.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Clement's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, Sept. 23rd at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church, 24 Jabish St., Belchertown MA. Burial will follow in South Cemetery, Mill Valley Rd.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Nancy Kwiatkowski

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 08:45:00 GMT

Nancy A. (Brighenti) Kwiatkowski, 68, passed away September 12, 2022 with the love of her family surrounding her.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Nancy's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Friday, September 16th from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. Friends and family may gather between 9-9:15 a.m. on Saturday, September 17th at the funeral home to join in procession to a 10 a.m. mass at St. Francis of Assisi and burial in South Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

SCAM ALERT!

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 21:21:00 GMT

Scam Alert!!! People have reported getting messages from Fr. David asking for Apple gift cards. THIS IS NOT FROM FR. DAVID! This is a SCAM!! Fr. David will never email or text anyone looking for help or a gift card.

Obituary for Robert Letourneau

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 08:40:00 GMT

Robert Letourneau, 82, passed away at home on July 21, 2022. Robert will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Robert's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

All service are private and Beers & Story Funeral Home was entrusted with the arrangements.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

SCAM ALERT !!!!

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 18:44:00 GMT

The scammers are at it again, sending out text messages pretending to be Fr. David asking for help. Please DO NOT respond to any emails or text messages you may recieve of this nature, as it is NOT from Fr. David.

Carolyn Groves Funeral Mass Video

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 17:13:00 GMT

Below, please find the video of the Funeral Mass for Carolyn Groves, our former Director of Religous Education.

The Funeral Mass for Carolyn Groves was celebrated on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at 10 AM.

This Mass was originally livestreamed for friends and family who could not be present, but we had technical difficulties that delayed our ability to share it until now.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.

Obituary for Carolyn Groves

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 07:46:00 GMT

Carolyn (Vogt) Groves, 74, died in her home on May 24, 2022 with her family by her side. Carolyn will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Carolyn's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Friends and family are invited to a Funeral Service for Carolyn on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 24 Jabish Street, Belchertown, MA. The family will receive funeral attendees before the service at 9:30 am. Burial will be private.

Click here for more information from Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home.

Obituary for Dennis Koob

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 07:23:00 GMT

Dennis W. Koob, Sr., 76, passed away peacefully at home Saturday, May 28, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. Dennis will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Dennis' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A calling hour will be held on Tuesday, June 7th from 10-11 AM at St. Francis Church, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 AM. Private burial with military honors will follow at the Massachusetts Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for David Fredenburgh

Wed, 25 May 2022 07:33:00 GMT

David S. Fredenburgh, 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at home on Wednesday, May 18, 2022. David will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may David's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, May 31, 2022 in St. Francis of Assisi Church, beginning at 11:00 am. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Connie Loftus

Wed, 11 May 2022 07:51:00 GMT

Constance M. (Socha) Loftus, 87, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 4, 2022. Connie will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Connie's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A brief visitation will be held on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at 10am in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 24 Jabish St, Belchertown. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11am followed by a procession to South Cemetery for Rites of Committal and Interment.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Lee Wallace

Tue, 03 May 2022 21:14:00 GMT

P. Leonie "Lee" (DeBlois) Wallace, 101, passed away Saturday, April 30th. Lee will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Lee's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 9, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church. A calling hour will precede the Mass at the church from 10:00-11:00 am. Burial will follow at Lake Vale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Francis Church.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Victor Tetreault

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 11:15:00 GMT

Victor Tetreault, 82, passed away on Easter Sunday, April 17th. Victor will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Victor's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Calling hours will be Sunday, April 24 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St., (rte. 202). A Funeral Mass will be Monday at 12:00 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 24 Jabish St. Belchertown. Family and friends may gather at the funeral home by 11:15 a.m. to escort Victor in a procession to the church service. After the service the procession will take him to his place of rest in the Mass. Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam at 2:00 p.m.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home .

Obituary for Robert Murray

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 10:20:00 GMT

Robert Murray, 87, passed away on Saturday, April 16th. Robert will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Robert's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 11:00 am at St. Francis Church. Burial will be private.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home .

SCAM ALERT!!!

Sat, 05 Mar 2022 17:06:00 GMT

Several of our parishioners have received a text message claiming to be Fr. David Darcy looking for help.

This is NOT Fr. David.

Obituary for Patrick John McMorrow

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 22:22:00 GMT

Patrick McMorrow, 86, passed away on Sunday, February 27th. Patrick will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Patrick's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

The family will receive friends at Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home on Thursday, Mar. 3rd from 4:00PM - 7:00PM. The Funeral Mass will be held on Friday at 9:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Please meet directly at the church. Burial with military honors will follow the Mass at 11:00 a.m. at the Mass. Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass for John Terranova (son of Ann Marie Mohan)

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 13:37:00 GMT

Monday, February 28, 2022 at 10 AM a funeral Mass for John Terranova (Ann Marie Mohan's son) will be offered at the church.

Please pray for the repose of his soul and for his family and friends in their bereavement.

Obituary for Donald Laporte

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 21:35:00 GMT

Donald Laporte, 67, passed away on Monday, February 7th. Donald will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Donald's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A calling hour will be held on Wednesday, February 16th from 9:30-10:30 am at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. Francis Church in Belchertown. Burial will follow in Lake Vale Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Annette Theresa Beaulieu

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 22:39:00 GMT

Annette Theresa Beaulieu, passed away at the age of 96 on Saturday, February 5th. Annette will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Annette's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 12, 2022 at Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St. from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. followed by Annette's Liturgy of Christian Burial beginning at 11:00am in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 24 Jabish St, Belchertown. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Edmund Lanoue, Jr.

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 07:22:00 GMT

Edmund Lanoue, Jr., 54, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, February 2nd. Edmund will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Edmund's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St, from 4pm-7pm. Family and friends are asked to meet directly in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 24 Jabish St. Belchertown, Thursday February 10, 2022, for Edmunds Liturgy at 11am. All are welcome.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Storm Update & Weekend Masses

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 12:31:00 GMT

This weekend’s storm is bringing snow and wind that may impact driving conditions. Please be safe and make prudent decisions on when you will attend Mass this weekend.

The bishop has given permission for parishes to cancel Saturday (1/29) services at their discretion.

Fr. David will still be offering all the scheduled Masses this weekend, so you have a variety of times to choose from - without having to travel in hazardous conditions.

As always, for those who are unable to join us in person due to illness, the 4 PM and the 10:30 AM will be livestreamed on our website.

Obituary for Owen Sedlacek

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 10:36:00 GMT

Owen Sedlacek passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 16th, at the age of 19. Owen will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Owen's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 24th at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home from 3:00-7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, January 25th at St. Francis Church at 10:00 a.m. Kindly meet directly at the church.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Joanne Whelan

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 15:40:00 GMT

Parishioner Joanne Whelan passed away on Thursday, January 13th, at the age of 65. Joanne will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Joanne's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi in Belchertown. Please meet directly at the church. Burial will be held privately at Bourne National Cemetery on Friday the 21st at 12:45 p.m.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Terry Couture

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 07:40:00 GMT

Our long-time and very active parishioner Terry Couture passed away on Tuesday, January 4th, at the age of 91. Terry will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Terry's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A Walk-Through Visitation will be held Monday, January 10, 2022 at Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St, from 4pm-7pm.

Friends and Family are invited to meet directly at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Belchertown the following morning, Tuesday, January 11, 2022 for Terry’s Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 10am.

For those unable to attend and wishing to view Terry’s services remotely, please visit https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/7243175158

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Scam Alert !!!!

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:07:00 GMT

Scam Alert !!! Once again, someone is using Fr. David's name and sending text messages requesting gift cards. Please note that Fr. David would never reach out to anyone asking for money or gift cards. Please be alert and do not respond to messages of this nature.

Obituary for Glenn Moquin, Jr.

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 14:56:00 GMT

Glenn Moquin, tragically passed away on Monday, November 22nd, at the age of 31. Glenn will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Glenn's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be held Monday, Nov. 29th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church with burial to follow in South Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for David West

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 07:41:00 GMT

David West, passed away on Thursday, November 11th, at the age of 79. David will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may David's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, Nov. 18th at 10:00 a.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Lake Vale Cemetery in Belchertown. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 4:00-6:00 pm at the funeral home. Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Parish Receives a New Mower

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 21:43:00 GMT

A huge shout out to the folks at Orchard Hill Farm Equipment in Belchertown
who generously donated this lawn mower to our parish.
We are so grateful for their generosity.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Obituary for Florine Neggers

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 09:11:00 GMT

Our parishioner and very active town member, Florine Neggers, passed away on Wednesday, October 13th, at the age of 86. Florine will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Florine's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Visitation will be Tuesday, October 19th from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home with a Funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Burial will follow in South Cemetery. Face masks are required.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Louise Groux

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 08:43:00 GMT

Our long-time parishioner, Louise Groux, passed away on Wednesday, October 6th, at the age of 91. Louise will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Louise's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A calling hour will be held on October 20th from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi in Belchertown and can also be attended virtually by visiting https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/6151011050 . Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the MA Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. Face masks are required.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Christmas Fair - Update

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 22:27:00 GMT

Obituary for Hugh Moriarty

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 09:34:00 GMT

Our long-time parishioner, Hugh Moriarty, passed away on Wednesday, September 15th, at the age of 85. Hugh will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Hugh's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery in Worcester. Please meet directly at the church and follow the Covid 19 protocols.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home .

Obituary for Mildred White

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 09:19:00 GMT

Our long-time parishioner, Mildred White, passed away on Wednesday, September 15th, just days shy of her 100th birthday. Mildred will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Mildred's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church followed by burial in South Cemetery. Please meet directly at the church and follow the Covid 19 protocols.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Scam Alert

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 14:20:00 GMT

Scam Alert!

We have had another report of someone posing as Fr. David sending emails requesting help.

Please know that this is a scam that has been making the rounds and no priest will request your help in this way.

Pray Daily for Our Priests

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 15:16:00 GMT

Prayer For Priests O Jesus, I pray for your faithful and fervent priests; for your unfaithful and tepid priests; for your priests laboring at home or abroad in distant mission fields; for your tempted priests; for your lonely and desolate priests; for your young priests; for your dying priests; for the souls of your priests in purgatory. But above all, I recommend to you the priests dearest to me: the priest who baptized me; the priests who absolved me from my sins; the priests at whose Masses I assisted and who gave me your Body and Blood in Holy Communion; the priests who taught and instructed me; all the priests to whom I am indebted in any other way. O Jesus, keep them all close to your heart, and bless them abundantly in time and in eternity. Amen - St. Therese of Lisieux

Young Men's Vocation Night

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 15:09:00 GMT

The Singing Priests Are Back!

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 22:09:00 GMT

Our diocesan Singing Priests are back, helping to celebrate the Fourth of July with a special Patriotic Concert to air Saturday, July 3rd at 7 PM on "Real to Reel." If you miss the July 3rd broadcast on WWLP 22 News--don't fret. The entire concert show will be available on the Catholic Communications YouTube Channel starting Sunday, July 4th. You can find that via a link on iobserve.org .

Vocation Holy Hour

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 16:15:00 GMT

Back to Church

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 11:41:00 GMT

A message from Bishop Byrne.

https://youtu.be/5FPG1_dRfBs

Obituary for Jason Zolendziewski

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 19:11:00 GMT

Jason Zolendziewski, the son of one of our parishioners, tragically passed away on Wednesday, April 14th. Jason will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Jason's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A walk-through visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Stop & Shop "Bloomin' 4 Good Program" to Benefit St. Francis Parish Food Pantry

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 19:22:00 GMT

Stop & Shop supermarket is thrilled to announce the Bloomin' 4 Good Program , a brand new program from Stop & Shop that works to fight hunger in local communities. In this program, every $9.99 Bloomin' 4 Good Bouquet sold sends a $1 donation to a hunger organization local to the store in which it was purchased.

For the month of May 2021, St. Francis of Assisi Parish Food Pantry has been selected to receive a $1 donation for every $9.99 Bloomin' 4 Good Bouquet with the red circle sticker (pictured below) sold at the store located at 40 George Hannum Street, Belchertown MA.

Bishop Byrne's Pastoral Letter

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 22:38:00 GMT

Bishop Byrne's Pastoral Letter "Back to Better, Our Road to Emmaus" is available through the following link:

http://diospringfield.org/11269-2/

We encourage you to read it in its entirety as he reflects on where we have been and shares his plans for renewal and hope with is flock.

2021 Holy Week Schedule

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 08:06:00 GMT

Saturday, March 27: VIGIL, PALM SUNDAY
4:00 PM Mass

Sunday, March 28: PALM SUNDAY
Mass at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM

Monday, March 29:
8:00 AM Mass
7:00 PM Chrism Mass
(St. Michael’s Cathedral, Springfield)

Tuesday, March 30:
8:00 AM Mass

Wednesday, March 31:
8:00 AM Mass
4:30 PM Reconciliation
6:00 PM Stations of the Cross
6:30 PM Mass

Thursday, April 1: HOLY THURSDAY
(No Morning Mass or Adoration)
7:00 PM Mass of the Lord’s Supper,
followed by Adoration until 10:00 PM

Friday, April 2: GOOD FRIDAY
3:00 PM Stations of the Cross
7:00 PM Passion of the Lord and Veneration of the Cross

Saturday, April 3: HOLY SATURDAY
8:00 PM Easter Vigil Mass

Sunday, April 4: EASTER SUNDAY
Mass at 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM

Prayer Vigil for Life: March 23rd

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 23:30:00 GMT

Join us to witness for life!

Tuesday, March 23, 9 AM - 4 PM

St. Francis parishioners are invited to pray outside Planned Parenthood on the corner of 3550 Main Street and Wason Avenue in Springfield OR befiore the Blessed Sacrament here at St. Francis.

We will use the power of the Rosary to change hearts.

Please sign-up to cover an hour, at either location, on the sheet in the gathering space.

KofC Monthly Curbside Dinner: March 20th--Corned Beef Sandwich!

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 23:09:00 GMT

On the third Saturday of every month, our KofC Council provides curb-side dinners.

The March dinner (on March 20th) will be corned beef sandwiches.

Click the link below for more information and to pre-order.

https://www.facebook.com/events/236125814855955/

Parousia: The Bible and the Mass, coming Lent 2021

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 10:21:00 GMT

Why return to Mass? Our very lives depend on it. It’s the summit of God’s plan for our salvation. It’s time to wake Catholics up to the awesome power, the incredible gift, that is the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The alternative is unthinkable. In our latest Journey Through Scripture study, get ready to join host Scott Hahn to uncover how and why all of God’s action, in creation and redemption, is ordered to the Mass.

https://stpaulcenter.com/studies-tools/journey-through-scripture/parousia-the-bible-and-the-mass/

Obituary for Stanley Antonovitch

Sat, 30 Jan 2021 18:59:00 GMT

Our long-time parishioner, Stanley Antonovitch, passed away on Wednesday, January 27th, at the age of 89. Stanley will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Stanley's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at 11:00 AM at the St. Francis Church. Burial is private. Please meet directly at the church and follow the Covid 19 protocols.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

ADORERS NEEDED: Prayer Vigil for Life

Sat, 16 Jan 2021 11:31:00 GMT

Join St. Francis Parish and the Nationwide Prayer Vigil for Life in 12 hours of Adoration before the Most Blessed Sacrament beginning on Thursday, January 29 at 8 PM through Friday, January 29 at 8 AM.

Would you consider spending an hour with our Lord, praying for life?

Sign-ups will be in the gathering space at all Masses the weekends of January 16-17 and 23-24.

Questions? Contact Debby at 323-7080

"Bible in a Year" Free Podcast!

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 10:58:00 GMT

Ascension’s Bible in a Year Podcast, hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz, is the #1 podcast in America on iTunes and Apple Podcasts. Guiding Catholics through the Bible in 365 days, each 20-25 minute episode includes: two to three scripture readings, a reflection from Fr. Schmitz, and guided prayer to help you hear God’s voice in His Word. Unlike any other Bible podcast, this podcast for Catholics follows a reading plan inspired by the Great Adventure Bible Timeline ^® learning system, a groundbreaking approach to understanding Salvation History developed by renowned Catholic Bible teacher Jeff Cavins. Tune in and live your daily life through the lens of God’s word!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bible-in-a-year-with-fr-mike-schmitz/id1539568321?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=BIY+%231&utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fpodcasts.apple.com%2fus%2fpodcast%2fthe-bible-in-a-year-with-fr-mike-schmitz%2fid1539568321&utm_id=235799&sfmc_id=106764280

Business Office Closed 12/24-1/3; No Adoration 12/24 & 12/31

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 09:18:00 GMT

The business office will be closed 12/24-1/3 (reopening 1/4). There will also be no Adoration on 12/24 and 12/31.

Bambinelli Sunday: December 13th

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 11:19:00 GMT

Pope John Paul II, during his papacy, instituted the celebration of Bambinelli Sunday on the Third Sunday of Advent – a day on which children from Rome bring to St. Peter’s Square the figurine of the Christ Child from their families’ Nativity sets. Then, following the Sunday Angelus address, the Holy Father blesses the statues of Baby Jesus which the children will take back to homes to be placed under their Christmas trees.

Pope Francis continued the tradition, blessing the statuettes which children brought before him in the Square. Parishes around the world now join in the celebration, encouraging young children to make the connection between the Nativity set at home and the local church where they worship each weekend.

On the weekend of December 12-13, you are invited to bring your Christ Child figurine from your nativity sets to Mass for a special blessing. We hope that you will participate in this powerful witness to the celebration of the birth of our Savior.

Christmas 2020 at St. Francis of Assisi Church

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 10:29:00 GMT

Due to safety concerns and restrictions on gatherings by the state, there need to be changes in our holiday traditions. Cancelled Events Lighting of the Creche Annual Cookie Swap Children's Christmas Pageant Sacrament of Reconciliation During Advent Wednesdays, December 2, 9, 16, and 23, from 6:00-8:00 PM Christmas Masses Christmas Masses are by Reservation Only Attendance at each Mass is limited to 200. As a result, Masses this year will be by reservation only. Anyone without a reservation will not be allowed entrance. The Parish Office will be taking reservations for the Christmas Masses beginning Tuesday, December 1. (323-6272 x1) Plan to arrive no later than 15 mins before Mass and enter only by the front doors. This will allow time to check names against the reservations list, direct seating, and maintain social distancing. Christmas Mass Schedule (by Reservation Only; see above) Christmas Eve Masses: Thursday, December 24 at 4 PM & 6 PM Christmas Day Masses: Friday, December 25 at 8 AM & 10:30 AM Other Holy Days of Obligation Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Vigil Mass: Monday, December 7 at 6:30 PM Holy Day Masses: Tuesday, December 8 at 8 AM and 12:10 PM The Feast of the Holy Family. This feast will be celebrated during the regular weekend Masses on December 26 & 27. Family Blessings will be offered following each Mass. Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (New Year's) Vigil Mass: Thursday, December 31 at 6:30 PM Holy Day Masses: Friday, January 1 at 8 AM and 12:10 PM

KofC Monthly Curbside Takeout Dinner

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 08:57:00 GMT

Place an advanced order here for your delicious dinner prepared by the Knights. You can check out this month's dinner choice and date and time by going to the Knights Facebook page in the 'Events' sections.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJiacEAL4jLrFSkeIXe50Heik4ljGNW5jekjUA6TUEpy35sQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0

Congratulations 1st Communicants!

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 08:50:00 GMT

Congratulations to these young boys and girls who made their 1st Communion recently. We practiced social distancing by dividing the class into four, smaller groups. Thank you to their parents and our religious ed teachers for preparing these young children to receive the sacrament.

Obituary for Martha Lofland

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 09:39:00 GMT

Our long-time and beloved parishioner, Martha Lofland, passed away on Thursday, November 12th at the blessed age of 94. Martha will be greatly missed by her family and friends and especially by her parish family of St. Francis.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Martha's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at noon at the St. Francis Church followed by burial in South Cemetery. Please meet directly at the church and follow the Covid 19 protocols.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Joan Sullivan

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 09:35:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Joan Sullivan, passed away on Wednesday, November 11th. Joan will be greatly missed by her family and friends and her parish family of St. Francis.

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Joan's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

A walk through visitation will be held Sunday, Nov. 15th from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church. Please meet directly at the church. Burial is private.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Obituary for Rita Gallagher

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 21:35:00 GMT

Eternal rest, grant unto her O Lord, and may Rita's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

For everyone's health and safety, services will be privately held for family. A Funeral Mass at St. Francis of Assisi will be available via live stream Thursday, Nov. 12th at 11:00 a.m. by clicking https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/361390548 . Burial to follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

KofC Sausage Grinder Sale: November 21st 3-6 PM

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 21:58:00 GMT

Thanks to an overwhelming demand, our Knights of Columbus Council will once again be selling their delicious sausage grinders (with peppers and onions) that they usually sell at the Belchertown Fair.

These will be for sale outside the Parish Social Center on Park Street on Saturday, November 21st between 3-6 PM.

Pre-orders can be made via the link below. Drive ups (or walk-ups) are also welcome!

https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSeJiacEAL4.../viewform...

Please consider supporting our KofC Council and enjoy a cook-free dinner for the entire family!

Thanksgiving Meal Baskets

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 07:42:00 GMT

The Food Pantry will be doing things a bit different this year for Thanksgiving meal baskets that go out to families.

This year, we will be providing a turkey and a gift card to Stop & Shop for each family.

If you have any questions or need additional information, call Roseann at 323-6272 x8.

Than you in advance for your donations!

Mobile Eucharistic Procession: Detailed Routes and Updated Map

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 08:09:00 GMT

Routes begin at 2 PM from the start point and will take about 2 hours or until done.

Monday, October 19 - Region 1 - Red (actual time 2 hrs)

Starts on Springfield Rd, Pendleton Rd, Pepper Ridge Rd, Pine Valley Plantation, Chauncey Walker St (Rt 21 S) to town line, Rt 21 N, Pheasant Run, Granby Rd, Shaw St, Ludlow St, Rt 21 N, Ledgewood Dr, Ledgewood Cir, Forest Rd, Planet Fitness, Rt 21 S, Turkey Hill Rd, Rockrimmon St, Maplecrest Dr, Green Ave, Rockrimmon St to town line, Rimrock Dr, ending at Rt 21.

Wednesday, October 21 - Region 2 - Blue (actual time 3 hrs)

Starts at Bardwell St & Rt 21, N Liberty St, Carol Ann Dr, N Washington St, Cedar Glen Dr, Blossom Ln, Canal Dr, N Washington/S Washington Sts, West St, South St, Sylvan Cir, S Liberty St, West St, Autumn Ln, Alden Ave, South St, Railroad St, Norbell St, S Liberty St, Bardwell St, Pine St, Franklin St (Rt 181 S) Shea Ave, River St, Clover Hill Rd, Bardwell St, Michael Sears Rd, Eugene Dr, Fox Run Dr, Franklin St (Rt 181 N), Kennedy Rd, Moss Ln, Robin Ln, Rainbow Dr, Blacksmith Rd, Oakwood Dr, Franklin St (Rt 181 N), Cold Spring St, Michael Sears Rd, ending at Franklin St (Rt 181).

Monday, October 26 - Region 3 - Orange (estimated time 2.5 hrs)

Starting on Edelcy Dr, Segur Ln, Old Sawmill Rd, Rt 9 E, Meadow Pond Rd, Jason Way, Aldrich St, Willow Ln, Mill Valley Rd/181 S, Nathaniel Way, Martin Cir, Cold Spring St, East St, Sabin St, Rt 9 E to Windsor Dam Entrance, Rt 9 W, Blue Meadow Rd, Heritage Dr, Warner Rd, Deer Run, Doe Hollow, Old Enfield Rd, Earley St, Allen Rd, Juckett Hill Dr, Sherwood Dr, Brandywine Dr, Pond View Cir, Fletcher Ave, Sheffield Dr, Spring Hill Rd, Lexington Drive, Waterford Dr, Westwood Dr ending at Allen Rd.

Wednesday, October 28 – Region 4 – Yellow (estimated time 2.5 hrs)

Starts at North Brookfield Bank, Rt 202 N/Daniel Shays Hwy, Summer Hill Estates, Old Pelham Rd, Kopec Ave, Kimball St, Rt 202 N to Entering Pelham Sign, Munsell St, Oasis Dr, Gold St, Trillium Way, Gulf Rd, N Gulf Rd, S Gulf Rd, North St, Rt 9 W, Raymond Dr, Brenda Ln, Two Ponds Rd, Old Amherst Rd, Warren Wright Rd, Wilson St, Goodell St, Federal St, Rt 9 W, Wilson St, Cheryl Circle, Orchard St, Rt 9 E, Allen St, Bay Rd, Eagle Heights, Westview Dr, ending at CVS.

Monday, November 2 – Region 5 – Pink (estimated time 2.5 hrs)

Starts at Alden Bank Plaza, Rt 202 S/State Street, Underwood St, Lawrence Rd, Jon Dr, Jeffery Ln, Henry Dr, Dressel Ave, Fred Ruel St/Boardman St, Rural St, George Hannum Rd, Hamilton St, Bay Rd, Rita Ln, Chartier Dr, Sarah Ln, Metacomet St, Old Farm Rd, Catherine Dr, Old Bay Rd, Plaza Ave, Warren Wright Rd, Bay Path Rd, Lamson Ave, Stebbins St, Emily Lane, Mercier Dr, Pinebrook Dr, Clearbrook Dr, Daniel Sq, Bachelor St/George Hannum Rd, Boardman St, Eskett, Barton Ave/Mtn View, Laurel Ridge, Azalea Way, Oak Ridge Dr, Hemlock Hollow, Chestnut Dr, Terry Ln, Summit St, Helen Ln, ending at Summit St and Rt 202/State St.

Wednesday, November 4 – Region 6 – Green (estimated time 2 hrs)

Starts at St. Francis Church on Jabish St, Eastview Dr, Sargent St/Rt 9 W, Chadbourne Rd, Lloyd Ave, N Main St/202 N, Rt 9 W, George Hannum Rd, Hickory Hill, Dogwood, Magnolia Ln, Dana Woods, N Main St, Tucker Ln, Woodhaven Dr, E Walnut St, Cottage St, Jabish St, Everett Ave, Maple St/Rt 202 S, Front St – Christopher Heights, Maple St, Howard St, Jackson St, N Main St/Rt 202 S, S Main St/Rt 181 S, Fuller St, N Washington St, Cedar Glen, N. Washington, Rt 181 S/Mill Valley Rd, Jenson St, ending at St. Francis Church.

Mobile Eucharistic Procession: Oct 19 & 21 Routes

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Mobile Eucharistic Procession: Select Dates Between Oct 19-Nov 4

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 09:46:00 GMT

Fr. David Darcy will be leading a Series of Mobile Eucharistic Processions with the Most Blessed Sacrament visiting neighborhood in our St. Francis Parish Community. A procession of 2-3 vehicles will slowly drive through neighborhoods in Belchertown with the Most Blessed Sacrament for Adoration. See the map and schedule to see when Jesus will be visiting your neighborhood. The procession will begin at 2 PM. As detailed routes are finalized, they will be posted here. We invite you to be out in your yard for this beautiful blessing.

KofC Sausage Grinder Sale: October 17th, 3-6 PM

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 09:38:00 GMT

Our Knights of Columbus Council will be selling their delicious sausage grinders (with peppers and onions) that they usually sell at the Belchertown Fair.

Also on the menu:

These will be for sale outside the Parish Social Center on Park Street on Saturday, October 17th between 3-6 PM.

Pre-orders can be made via the link below. Drive ups are also welcome!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJiacEAL4jLrFSkeIXe50Heik4ljGNW5je
kjUA6TUEpy35sQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0

Please consider supporting our KofC Council and enjoy a cook-free dinner for the entire family!

Survey on the Response to Sexual Abuse (Respond 10/8-10/19)

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 14:12:00 GMT

The Diocese of Springfield is publishing an online survey to seek help from the community to provide input into a strategic plan to improve its response to sexual abuse allegations and victim assistance. The Survey on the Response to Sexual Abuse within the Diocese of Springfield, can be found at diospringfield.org and will be available from Thursday, Oct. 8 through Monday, Oct. 19. Read more at http://iobserve.org/.../online-survey-to-garner-public.../

Liturgy of Christian Burial for Arthur F. Frigon at 10am on October 3rd

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 16:39:00 GMT

Our parishioner Arthur Frigon died on Sunday, September 27th. We extend our prayerful condolences to his wife, Barbara, and to all of their family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, October 3rd, at 10 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181) in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

AUGUST 23rd: Farewell to Archbishop Mitch

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 07:28:00 GMT

Although we cannot formally gather in-person to bid farewell to Archbishop Mitch, Catholic Communications is preparing a very special one hour edition of "Real to Reel" for us to say goodbye.

Join us on SUNDAY AUGUST 23rd at 11AM ON THE CW SPRINGFIELD (Comcast Chan. 16 & Spectrum/Charter Chan. 13) and in the Berkshires on FOX23. This program will be viewable later that day on the Catholic Communications YouTube channel find link at iobserve.org .

This farewell program will feature the Archbishop's final interview and farewell message, as well as messages from across western Massachusetts and some musical selections from our diocesan Singing Priests.

Join us SUNDAY AUGUST 23 at 11AM for this special program!

Obituary for Mildred Gerow Christenson

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 16:29:00 GMT

Beers and Story Obituary

Liturgy of Christian Burial for Marcel Archambault at 11am Tuesday (June 9)

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 10:13:00 GMT

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated for Marcel Archambault, 92, on Tuesday, June 9th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Burial will follow at Notre Dame Cemetery in South Hadley. Due to the current situation calling hours are omitted. A Celebration of Life will also be held at a future date.

Eternal Rest grant unto him O Lord and may perpetual light shine upon him.

See Beers and Story website for more information

Click here for directions to St. Francis Church

Click here for directions to Notre Dame Cemetery in South Hadley

Congratulations to Father David

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 07:56:00 GMT

Congratulations and Blessings to Fr. David on his 26th anniversary of Ordination.

Thank you for your faithful service to the people of God.

Obituary for Gregory S. Dorman

Wed, 20 May 2020 14:59:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Gregory S. Dorman, passed away on Sunday, May 17th and will be greatly missed by his friends in our parish.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and may Greg's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

In consideration for everyone’s health and wellbeing along with the current gathering restrictions, services will be privately held at Beers & Story Funeral Home in Belchertown, MA. He will be buried at the Veteran’s Cemetery in Agawam, MA where he will receive a private military honors burial.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

SCAM ALERT

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 21:25:00 GMT

Some parishioners and members of groups within our parish are receiving text messages that appear to be from Fr. Darcy asking for a favor and then asking for such things as gift cards or some other monetary item. Please note that Fr. Darcy will NEVER text making such requests. If you receive such a request, block the number on your phone. Thank you.

Gloria Cartelli Obituary

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 13:47:00 GMT

As previously shared, longtime and VERY active parishioner Gloria Cartelli passed away on Tuesday, April 21st. Below is a link to her obituary.

Click here for her obituary .

Anyone and everyone who met Gloria was touched by her laughter, joy, and deep faith and love of God. She always made you smile. We will miss her deeply.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Gloria's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Gloria Cartelli and Ann Pols

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 22:26:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that we share that two of our much loved, long-time parishioners--Gloria Cartelli and Ann Pols--have passed.

Please keep these ladies and their families in your prayers at this difficult time.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Pray the Divine Mercy Novena Starting Good Friday

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 22:59:00 GMT

Please join us in praying the Divine Mercy Novena for an end to the Coronavirus.

The Novena begins on Good Friday, April 10 and ends with the celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday, April 19.

See Divine Mercy Novena resources in the links below.

The National Shrine of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA at https://www.thedivinemercy.org/message/devotions/novena

http://www.divinemercyconference.com/divine-mercy-novena

https://www.praymorenovenas.com/divine-mercy-novena

All Masses & Parish Events Cancelled Until Further Notice

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 14:30:00 GMT

Per Bishop Rozanski, all Masses and parish events are cancelled until further notice. The Business office is open. The chapel will be open for private prayer from 8 AM to 6 PM., with no exposition of the sacrament. Bulletins are in the chapel entrance or between the doors of the office. Contribution Envelopes can mailed, dropped off at the office or saved until Masses resume. Please pray for the health of our country.

ALL MASSES ARE CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:14:00 GMT

SEE IMPORTANT DIOCESAN MESSAGE RE: COVID-19: http://diospringfield.org/directives-for-confronting-the-coronavirus/

The Catholic Life Conference in Springfield has been postponed to October 17

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 08:17:00 GMT

Click below for a message from the Catholic Life Conference Committee:

https://catholiclifeconference.org/

Irish Night Dinner Canceled

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 10:11:00 GMT

Due to circumstances beyond our control, St. Francis of Assisi Knights of Columbus has canceled it’s dinner plans on March 14, 2020.

Ticket refunds will be available after all Masses this weekend, March 14 & 15, or by calling Paul Vanasse at 413-813-8442.

Thank You all for your support and understanding.

Springfield Diocese Initiates Safety Precautions

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 07:37:00 GMT

The Springfield Diocese initiates safety precautions as the coronavirus spreads. This includes:

2020 Lenten Regulations

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 10:09:00 GMT

DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD

LENTEN REGULATIONS

Although the faithful may excuse themselves for a just cause from these laws of fast and abstinence, there is an obligation to substitute another penance and no Catholic should lightly excuse himself/herself from this obligation in the Lenten season.

Parish Office & Chapel Closed Monday, February 17th

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 11:21:00 GMT

The Parish Business Office and Adoration Chapel will be closed for the holiday on Monday, February 17th.

Funeral Mass for Alfred Roccanti Tuesday, February 11th at 10 AM

Sat, 08 Feb 2020 08:25:00 GMT

Longtime parishioner and former Belchertown resident, Alfred Roccanti, 91, died peacefully on Wednesday, February 5th.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 11th, at 10 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. Burial will follow at South Cemetery.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Alfred's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Funeral Mass for Raymond Couture, Saturday - January 18, 2020 at 11 AM

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 20:37:00 GMT

Eternal rest grant unto him, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Raymond's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Catholic Life Conference - March 21st

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 07:12:00 GMT

The Catholic Life Conference is coming to the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield on March 21. This fabulous event is open to people of all ages and will feature speakers Scott Hahn, Kimberly Hahn, Hudson Byblow, and Trish Short, plus a full children’s program including the performance of the famously wacky duo, Popple . The cost is $50 for adults and $15 for students and children with a household maximum of $150. Register at www.catholiclifeconference.org . Get ready for a day to fill you up and change you forever!

Welcome Father David Darcy

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 23:17:00 GMT

Saint Francis of Assisi Parish is excited to welcome their new pastor, Father David Darcy, who arrives on November 1st. Fr. Darcy is welcomed home, as prior to his family’s relocation, Father Darcy and his family were active parishioners of the St. Francis parish community. He was educated in the Belchertown school system and is a graduate of Belchertown High School. He is an alumnus of St. John’s Seminary, Brighton, MA and has been a pastor in several communities within the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield, MA. Fr. Darcy’s Silver Jubilee Celebration, marking his 25th Anniversary of priesthood, took place on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at Holy Cross Parish, Springfield, MA where he was most recently assigned. This past summer, Bishop Mitch Rozanski of the Diocese of Springfield appointed Fr. Darcy and Fr. Michael Wood as Co-directors of Vocations for the Diocese. With his arrival, Father Darcy will be the 14 th pastor to spiritually shepherd the congregation since the arrival of our first pastor Reverend James Dunphy in 1925.

Funeral for Lorraine A. Fimble Thursday (10/10) at 10 AM

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 19:07:00 GMT

Lorraine A. Fimble, the beloved mother of Michelle Gousy died on October 7, 2019. We offer our prayerful condolences to long time parishioners, Michelle and Norman Gousy and their family.

The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 10th, at 10 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at St. Rose De Lima Cemetery in Chicopee.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Lorraiine's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Directions to St. Rose De Lima Cemetery .

Annual Christmas Fair: November 2nd

Sat, 05 Oct 2019 10:32:00 GMT

The St. Francis of Assisi Annual Christmas Fair will be held Saturday, November 2 from 8:30 AM to 3 PM, at the St. Francis Social Center on Park Street. Our traditional Basket Auction, holiday crafts & gift bazaar, and the children’s holiday shopping area, complete with Santa’s helpers and gift wrapping will be available. The Bakery will offer homemade goodies and gourmet coffee in take-home holiday mugs. Enjoy lunch in our Café from 11 AM-2 PM where you can choose from a variety of homemade soups, sandwiches, pierogis, and beverages. This event is a major parish fundraiser and its success depends upon strong support by our parishioners and friends. Bring the kids and make a day of it!

Fr. Jack Moves this Week, Will be Administrator Pro-Tem Here Until New Pastor is Named and Arrives

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 14:09:00 GMT

Fr. Jack celebrated his last Mass as Pastor at 10:30 this morning, followed by a light reception in the Gathering Space of the church.

During the Mass, Fr. Jack told parishioners that a plan is coming together that will hopefully find us with a new pastor on October 1st. There are a few things that need to be worked out with the priest Bishop Rozanski is considering and, hopefully, an announcement will be made soon. In the meantime, Fr. Jack will serve St. Francis of Assisi as Administrator Pro-Tem until the new pastor arrives. During that time, all liturgical and spiritual needs of the parish will be taken care of by a visiting priest or priests, with Fr. Jack taking on the administration responsibilities in addition to his duties as pastor at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in West Springfield.

Once Bishop Rozanski has assigned a new pastor, an announcement will be made at Masses here and, simultaneously, at the priest's current assignment.

Funeral for Norman Loftus Monday (8/26) at 10 AM

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 10:14:00 GMT

Our parishioner Norman Loftus died on Wednesday, August 21st. We extend our prayerful condolences to his wife, Connie, and to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, August 26th, at 10 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181) in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Norman's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Funeral for John Holdsworth Friday (8/23) at 10 AM

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 07:39:00 GMT

Our parishioner John Holdsworth died on Saturday, August 17th. We extend our prayerful condolences to his wife, Justine, his sons and daughters, and to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 23rd, at 10 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181) in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May John's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Funeral for Joe & Rita Canuel Wednesday (8/14) at 10 AM

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 16:29:00 GMT

Longtime St. Francis of Assisi parishioners Joe and Rita Canuel died recently - Joe on July 30th and Rita on August 9th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of their family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 14th at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181) here in Belchertown.

The family has indicated that memorial donations may be made to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, PO Box 612, Belchertown, MA 01007 .

Eternal rest grant unto them, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of Joe and Rita and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information on Joe from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for more information on Rita from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Former Parishioner & Long-Time Volunteer Parish Business Manager, Stanley Wyman, Has Died at 91

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 11:12:00 GMT

Updated: July 19, 2019 at 1:08 PM Our former parishioner and long-time volunteer parish business manager, Stanley Wyman died on Thursday morning at the age of 91 after struggling with health issues in recent months. Stan was a very active member of our parish until moving a few years ago to be closer to family. For a number of years, Stan volunteered his time and talent as our parish business manager, most notably, during the time we were raising money for our current church and throughout the time of its construction. He was also the Past Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus Council 10698, as well as being active in many different elements of parish and town life. Stan's wake will be celebrated on Sunday, July 21st from 3 to 5 PM at Materese Funeral Home, located at 325 Main Street in Ashland, MA. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, July 22nd at 11 AM at St. Matthew's Church, located at 105 Southville Road in Southborough, MA. Please keep Stan's family and friends in your prayers during this time of mourning. Eternal rest grant unto him, O LORD, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May Stan's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen. Click here for more information from Materese Funeral Home. Click here for directions to St. Matthew's Church in Southborough.

Scam Warning

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 10:36:00 GMT

There is a scam going on throughout the country in which people receive texts, emails or other messages through social media, from someone identifying themself as the parish priest, indicating that the priest is in a situation in which he needs money right away. It is believed that the scammers are going through parish websites and online bulletins, and then texting, emailing or messaging parishioners whose contact information may be published in various ways as contacts for particular activities or events. Please note that Fr. Jack would never text, email, or use social media to ask a parishioner for emergency financial assistance. Any such requests should be ignored.

Seminarian Felipe Duarte to Begin Summer Pastoral Assignment at St. Francis of Assisi

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 16:08:00 GMT

Springfield Diocesan Seminarian Felipe Duarte has been assigned to St. Francis of Assisi Parish for a Summer pastoral assignment by Bishop Rozanski. Felipe will be with us beginning Friday, June 7th through July 31st.

Felipe (pronounced (fih-LEEP-ee) was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and attended the Seminary for Missionary Priests in Sao Paul for about 7 years. He comes to the Diocese of Springfield with the hope of working with both the English-speaking and Portuguese-speaking communities after his ordination to the priesthood. We look forward to having Felipe working with us for the next few weeks.

Funeral for Barbara Whitney Wednesday (6/5) at 11 AM

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 10:43:00 GMT

St. Francis of Assisi parishioner Barbara "Rhoda" Whitney died on Wednesday, May 29th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 5th at 11 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, located at 421 Tinkham Road in Springfield.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Rhoda's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Springfield.

Fr. Jack Appointed Pastor in West Springfield

Sat, 18 May 2019 18:19:00 GMT

BELCHERTOWN — Bishop Rozanski has appointed Fr. Jack Sheaffer as the new pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in West Springfield, effective August 31, 2019. This news is also being shared with the people in West Springfield this weekend. Fr. Jack will be succeeding longtime pastor, Fr. Kenneth Tatro, who is retiring.

The Bishop’s Committee for the Clergy will be meeting in the next few weeks to recommend a successor to Fr. Jack. An official announcement will be made in a few weeks after a new pastor for St. Francis of Assisi Parish has been named.

Please keep Fr. Jack and our parish in your prayers during this time of transition. Please pray, too, for Fr. Tatro and the people of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish as they move through this same process of transition.

Please click here to read Fr. Jack's statement.

Funeral for Marjorie Lacharite Wednesday (5/8) at 10 AM.

Mon, 06 May 2019 12:58:00 GMT

St. Francis of Assisi parishioner Marjorie Lacharite died on Thursday, May 2nd. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 8th at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181) here in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Marjorie's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Fr. Leo James Hoar, Retired Longtime Chaplain of Springfield College Dies at 79

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:28:00 GMT

Fr. Leo James Hoar, a priest of the Diocese of Springfield, and retired longtime Chaplain at Springfield College, died on Sunday, April 28, 2019. Funeral services will be celebrated on the Cape and will be held at the convenience of his family.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Fr. Leo's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Lent 2019 Meatless Fridays Recipe of the Week: Vegetarian Black Bean Chili

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 14:59:00 GMT

Vegetarian Black Bean Chili

(Recipe by Robyn Fuoco)

Printable Version

Ingredients

Directions

Heat oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté until onions soften, about 10 minutes. Mix in chili powder, oregano, cumin, and cayenne; stir 2 minutes. Mix in beans, ½ cup reserved bean liquid, and tomato sauce. Bring chili to boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until flavors blend and chili thickens, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Ladle chili into bowls. Pass chopped cilantro, sour cream, grated cheese, and green onions separately.

Lent 2019 Meatless Fridays Recipe of the Week: Fr. Jack's Penne alla Vodka

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 13:39:00 GMT

Fr. Jack’s Penne Alla Vodka

(Original Recipe from Carmine’s in Manhattan)

Printable Version

Ingredients

Directions

In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the onions and reduce to medium. Cook onions, stirring until they begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes or until the onions ( but NOT the garlic ) are golden brown. (I actually cook the onions on low heat for 10- 12 minutes before adding the garlic and then I cook it for another 5-7 on pretty low heat)

Add Basil, Parsley, and Red Pepper Flakes. Cook, continually stirring for about 30 seconds.

Remove the pan from the heat, and add the vodka. Take care to stand back from the pan as the vodka can flame without lighting it. If not, light the sauce, and stir or agitate until alcohol is burned off. (You don’t have to flame the vodka, but I find it really makes a world of difference in the flavor. Also, burning off the alcohol won’t cause smoke but can cause your smoke detector to sound.) Return the pan to the heat and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. Add 3 cups marinara sauce and simmer for 3 minutes. Add 1/2 cup heavy cream and bring the sauce to a boil for about 3 minutes, or until it thickens. Continually stir the sauce. Turn off the heat, cover, and cook the pasta.

Cook the penne in salted water, al dente. Drain the penne well and transfer to a bowl.

About half way through cooking the pasta, bring the sauce to a boil and then remove from the heat; stir in 1/2 cup of Romano cheese, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Drain the pasta and place it on a large platter or bowl. Pour the sauce over the pasta and combine well. Spread the remaining Romano cheese over the top along with two or three whole basil leaves.

Enjoy!

Lent 2019 Meatless Fridays Recipe of the Week: Jumbo Shrimp & Asparagus

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 19:31:00 GMT

Jumbo Shrimp & Asparagus

Ingredients

Directions

Lent 2019 Meatless Fridays Recipe of the Week: Spinach Lasagna

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 08:36:00 GMT

Spinach Lasagna

Click here to PRINT

Ingredients

Directions

Funeral for Aldore Albert Tuesday (3/12) at 10 AM

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 14:28:00 GMT

Our parishioner Aldore Albert died on Monday, March 4th. We extend our prayerful condolences his all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 12th at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at St. Aloysius Cemetery in Indian Orchard.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Al's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Directions to St. Aloysius Cemetery in Indian Orchard.

Monday (3/4) Mass Cancelled

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 19:50:00 GMT

****WEATHER ALERT**** Belchertown schools will be closed Monday due to the winter storm. Therefore, in accord with our policy to cancel Mass when schools are closed or delayed due to weather, Monday's Daily Mass has been canceled. The Mass intention will be rescheduled. If you need to be on the road, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Funeral for Joseph Czapla Wednesday (3/6) at 10:00 AM

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 08:06:00 GMT

Our parishioner Joseph Czapla died on Wednesday February 27th. We extend our prayerful condolences his all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 6th at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take place in the Spring.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Joseph's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Thursday (2/28) Mass Cancelled

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 06:46:00 GMT

****WEATHER ALERT**** Due to road conditions, Belchertown schools have a two-hour delay. Therefore, in accord with our policy to cancel Mass when schools are closed or delayed due to weather, Thursday's Daily Mass has been canceled. The Mass intention will be rescheduled. If you need to be on the road, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Monday (2/18) Mass Cancelled

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 18:06:00 GMT

Due to the anticipated timing of the winter storm tonight and tomorrow morning, Daily Mass will be cancelled. If you need to be on the road, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Wednesday (2/13) Mass Cancelled

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 07:47:00 GMT

Thursday (1/31) Mass Cancelled

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 18:41:00 GMT

****WEATHER ALERT**** Due to the predicted extreme cold and wind chill factor, Belchertown schools will be delayed two hours on Thursday. Therefore, in accord with our policy to cancel Mass when schools are closed or delayed due to weather, Thursday's Daily Mass has been canceled. The Mass intention will be rescheduled. If you need to be on the road, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Abuse Crisis in the Catholic Church Listening and Dialogue Sessions

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 11:53:00 GMT

Springfield Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski invites the Catholic Community in Western Massachusetts to participate in one of four regional Listening & Dialogue Sessions addressing the sex abuse crisis in the Catholic Church. The sessions will allow the faithful to make their concerns known, offer observations, and ask questions of the bishop and diocesan officials. The sessions are scheduled for:

Wednesday, February 6 , at Mary Mother of Hope Church, 840 Page Boulevard in Springfield, 7-8:30PM. Directions

Sunday, February 10, at St. Joseph Church, 414 North Street in Pittsfield, 6-7:30PM. Directions

Monday, March 18, at St. Mary Church, 30 Bartlett Street in Westfield, 7-8:30PM. Directions

Sunday, March 24 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Hall, 10 Hawley Street in Northampton from 6-7:30PM. Directions

Winter Storm Advisory

Sat, 19 Jan 2019 10:51:00 GMT

Winter Storm Harper will arrive later this afternoon (Saturday). This is expected to be a very strong and storm creating severe driving issues. PLEASE , use your common sense and intuition when it comes to going to Mass. At this time, no Masses have been cancelled. However, if you are able and it is still safe to do so, we would recommend coming to today's 4:00 PM Mass . Please pray for our first responders and those working to clear our streets in the coming hours.

Bishop Rozanski Writes Letter in Response to Abuse Crisis

Tue, 15 Jan 2019 13:28:00 GMT

Click here to download a copy of the letter.

Suggestions for Worship During Cold & Flu Season

Tue, 15 Jan 2019 11:27:00 GMT

Each year we encounter the cold and flu season and it can raise some questions about our worship together:

SHOULD YOU COME TO MASS? The Obligation to attend Mass on Sunday and other Holy Days of Obligation is the ordinary expectation for Roman Catholics (Canon 1247). However, extraordinary circumstances such as sickness excuse the faithful from this obligation. If you suspect you have the flu or are suffering from a serious cold or other contagious illness, please stay at home to care for yourself and to avoid the risk spreading infection to others. Those who are unable to attend Mass due to illness can always participate in Mass by watching The Chalice of Salvation on WWLP 22 at 10 AM on Sunday mornings.

HOLDING HANDS DURING THE LORD’S PRAYER: Well-intentioned folks introduced this practice into parishes in the 1980s. Although holding hands can be a beautiful expression of people united in prayer, the gesture is not envisioned as a proper action in any Church documents governing the Sacred Liturgy, and therefore, neither called for nor required.

THE SIGN OF PEACE: Please do not take offense should someone choose not to shake hands with you during the Sign of Peace. An appropriate gesture for those who are concerned about spreading the flu virus might be to clasp your hands together or wave and, with a smile, say “Peace be with you”.

RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION: While the Church encourages reception of both Forms at Mass as a fuller expression of the Last Supper, this may not always be possible. If you are feeling sick, if you have a cold sore, or suspect that you might have been exposed to something contagious, please refrain from receiving Holy Communion from the Chalice, and receive only the Sacred Host in your hand, as opposed to on your tongue. It is never appropriate to dip your host into the cup, as this is considered irreverent and can contaminate the cup.

HEEDING MEDICAL ADVICE: If you’ve been told by your medical advisor that you are particularly susceptible to infection or to complications due to flu in particular, please refrain from practices that might make you sick, including shaking hands, receiving Holy Communion on the tongue, drinking the Precious Blood from the Chalice, etc.

Knights of Columbus to Sponsor B'Town Youth Free-Throw Championship

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 14:48:00 GMT

CONTEST ANNOUNCEMENT

Knights of Columbus St. Francis of Assisi Council 10698

Is sponsoring the Belchertown Youth Free Throw Championship

Monday, January 21 ^st , 2019

at Chestnut Hill Community School, Belchertown, MA

Participants are required to furnish proof of age and written parental consent to enter the contest.

Funeral for Michael Lee Saturday (1/12) at 11 AM

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 09:59:00 GMT

Our parishioner Michael W. Lee died on Sunday January 6th. We extend our prayerful condolences his wife, Rita, to their children, Steve, Karen, and Kathleen and to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 12th at 11 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will follow at South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Mike's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to South Cemetery.

Funeral for Bill Wallin Saturday (1/5) at 11:00 AM

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 16:32:00 GMT

Our parishioner William W. "Bill" Wallin, Jr. died on Monday December 31st. We extend our prayerful condolences his wife, Christine, to their children, Bill and Heather, to his mother, Margaret, to his siblings, and to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 5th at 11 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Bill's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Washington DC March for for Life Bus Trip

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 11:55:00 GMT

The Springfield Diocesan Pro-Life Committee along with the Pioneer Valley Massachusetts Citizens for Life of Ludlow are organizing a pilgrimage to the March for Life in Washington DC this coming January. Youth are especially invited to attend. Youth must be accompanied by adult chaperones; 1 adult who is over 21 – who has successfully completed the Diocesan Safe Environment Training and Background Check – for every 4 youth. The bus departs at 10pm on Thursday, January 17, 2019 from St. Stanislaus Basilica, Chicopee and returns at approximately 12:00am on Saturday, January 19th. Cost is $72 per person and payable to “RC Bishop of Springfield”. For more information, please see the brochure . Participants will need a signed Release Form . For questions, please contact Tim Biggins at 413-525-8022 or Peggy Bradford at 413-583-5034.

Advent Penance Service Sunday (12/16) at 2:30 PM

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 14:07:00 GMT

Funeral for Beverly Ann Maher Friday (12/14 at 9:00 AM

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 11:25:00 GMT

St. Francis of Assisi parishioner Beverly Ann Maher died on Friday, December 7th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, December 14th at 9 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take place the same day at 11 AM Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, located 1390 Main Street in Agawam.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Beverly's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

Advent Penance Service: Sunday, December 16th at 2:30 PM

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 14:51:00 GMT

Our Annual Advent Penance Service will be celebrated in the church on Sunday, December 16th at 2:30 PM. A number of priests from around the Diocese will join us to hear individual Confessions. There will be Confessors available to hear confessions in English, Polish, and Spanish. If you plan to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation as part of your Advent preparation for Christmas, this would be a great time to do so! Please join us!

Holy Day of Obligation: Immaculate Conception, December 8th

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 14:42:00 GMT

Funeral for Diane Couture Monday (12/3) at 11:00 AM

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 17:12:00 GMT

Former St. Francis of Assisi parishioner Diane Couture died on November 11th. We extend our prayerful condolences to her parents, parishioners Ray and Terry, and to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, December 3rd at 11 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take place immediately follow the Mass at St. Rose de Lima Cemetery, located on Olsen Street in Chicopee.

The family has requested that memorial donations be made to the St. Francis of Assisi Building Fund, PO Box 612, Belchertown, MA 01007-0612.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Diane's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to St. Rose de Lima Cemetery in Chicopee.

Scam Alert from the Diocese of Springfield

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 11:13:00 GMT

There has been a recent rash of e-mail phishing scams in which perpetrators send emails to some parish contacts using a bogus address that is made to look authentic. It usually includes the name of a member of the parish staff, and sometimes the parish name, but under a gmail account. It asks the receiver to purchase an iTunes gift card for a cancer patient but to send a picture of the card(allowing it to be remotely cashed in).

These can be very deceptive and trick folks into responding.

Please, always be cautious with any on-line request of this nature.

Retired Palmer Pastor, Fr. Eugene Plasse, Dies Unexpectedly

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 11:11:00 GMT

It is with sadness that Bishop Rozanski has announced the passing of Fr. Eugene Plasse, a retired priest of our diocese. Father Plasse passed away unexpectedly while visiting his sister in Virginia.

Fr. Plasse was ordained in 1972 and was the long-time pastor at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Palmer, as well as chaplain to the Boy Scouts of America.

Please pray for the repose of the soul of Fr. Plasse, as well as for those who mourn his passing.

More details will follow.

Letter of His Holiness Pope Francis to the People of God

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 10:51:00 GMT

“If one member suffers, all suffer together with it” ( 1 Cor 12:26). These words of Saint Paul forcefully echo in my heart as I acknowledge once more the suffering endured by many minors due to sexual abuse, the abuse of power and the abuse of conscience perpetrated by a significant number of clerics and consecrated persons. Crimes that inflict deep wounds of pain and powerlessness, primarily among the victims, but also in their family members and in the larger community of believers and nonbelievers alike. Looking back to the past, no effort to beg pardon and to seek to repair the harm done will ever be sufficient. Looking ahead to the future, no effort must be spared to create a culture able to prevent such situations from happening, but also to prevent the possibility of their being covered up and perpetuated. The pain of the victims and their families is also our pain, and so it is urgent that we once more reaffirm our commitment to ensure the protection of minors and of vulnerable adults.

1. If one member suffers…

In recent days, a report was made public which detailed the experiences of at least a thousand survivors, victims of sexual abuse, the abuse of power and of conscience at the hands of priests over a period of approximately seventy years. Even though it can be said that most of these cases belong to the past, nonetheless as time goes on we have come to know the pain of many of the victims. We have realized that these wounds never disappear and that they require us forcefully to condemn these atrocities and join forces in uprooting this culture of death; these wounds never go away. The heart-wrenching pain of these victims, which cries out to heaven, was long ignored, kept quiet or silenced. But their outcry was more powerful than all the measures meant to silence it, or sought even to resolve it by decisions that increased its gravity by falling into complicity. The Lord heard that cry and once again showed us on which side he stands. Mary’s song is not mistaken and continues quietly to echo throughout history. For the Lord remembers the promise he made to our fathers: “he has scattered the proud in their conceit; he has cast down the mighty from their thrones and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty” ( Lk 1:51-53). We feel shame when we realize that our style of life has denied, and continues to deny, the words we recite.

With shame and repentance, we acknowledge as an ecclesial community that we were not where we should have been, that we did not act in a timely manner, realizing the magnitude and the gravity of the damage done to so many lives. We showed no care for the little ones; we abandoned them. I make my own the words of the then Cardinal Ratzinger when, during the Way of the Cross composed for Good Friday 2005, he identified with the cry of pain of so many victims and exclaimed: “How much filth there is in the Church, and even among those who, in the priesthood, ought to belong entirely to [Christ]! How much pride, how much self-complacency! Christ’s betrayal by his disciples, their unworthy reception of his body and blood, is certainly the greatest suffering endured by the Redeemer; it pierces his heart. We can only call to him from the depths of our hearts: Kyrie eleison – Lord, save us! (cf. Mt 8:25)” (Ninth Station).

2. … all suffer together with it

The extent and the gravity of all that has happened requires coming to grips with this reality in a comprehensive and communal way. While it is important and necessary on every journey of conversion to acknowledge the truth of what has happened, in itself this is not enough. Today we are challenged as the People of God to take on the pain of our brothers and sisters wounded in their flesh and in their spirit. If, in the past, the response was one of omission, today we want solidarity, in the deepest and most challenging sense, to become our way of forging present and future history. And this in an environment where conflicts, tensions and above all the victims of every type of abuse can encounter an outstretched hand to protect them and rescue them from their pain (cf. Evangelii Gaudium , 228). Such solidarity demands that we in turn condemn whatever endangers the integrity of any person. A solidarity that summons us to fight all forms of corruption, especially spiritual corruption. The latter is “a comfortable and self-satisfied form of blindness. Everything then appears acceptable: deception, slander, egotism and other subtle forms of self-centeredness, for ‘even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light’ ( 2 Cor 11:14)” ( Gaudete et Exsultate , 165). Saint Paul’s exhortation to suffer with those who suffer is the best antidote against all our attempts to repeat the words of Cain: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” ( Gen 4:9).

I am conscious of the effort and work being carried out in various parts of the world to come up with the necessary means to ensure the safety and protection of the integrity of children and of vulnerable adults, as well as implementing zero tolerance and ways of making all those who perpetrate or cover up these crimes accountable. We have delayed in applying these actions and sanctions that are so necessary, yet I am confident that they will help to guarantee a greater culture of care in the present and future.

Together with those efforts, every one of the baptized should feel involved in the ecclesial and social change that we so greatly need. This change calls for a personal and communal conversion that makes us see things as the Lord does. For as Saint John Paul II liked to say: “If we have truly started out anew from the contemplation of Christ, we must learn to see him especially in the faces of those with whom he wished to be identified” ( Novo Millennio Ineunte , 49). To see things as the Lord does, to be where the Lord wants us to be, to experience a conversion of heart in his presence. To do so, prayer and penance will help. I invite the entire holy faithful People of God to a penitential exercise of prayer and fasting , following the Lord’s command. ¹ This can awaken our conscience and arouse our solidarity and commitment to a culture of care that says “never again” to every form of abuse.

It is impossible to think of a conversion of our activity as a Church that does not include the active participation of all the members of God’s People. Indeed, whenever we have tried to replace, or silence, or ignore, or reduce the People of God to small elites, we end up creating communities, projects, theological approaches, spiritualities and structures without roots, without memory, without faces, without bodies and ultimately, without lives. ² This is clearly seen in a peculiar way of understanding the Church’s authority, one common in many communities where sexual abuse and the abuse of power and conscience have occurred. Such is the case with clericalism, an approach that “not only nullifies the character of Christians, but also tends to diminish and undervalue the baptismal grace that the Holy Spirit has placed in the heart of our people”. ³ Clericalism, whether fostered by priests themselves or by lay persons, leads to an excision in the ecclesial body that supports and helps to perpetuate many of the evils that we are condemning today. To say “no” to abuse is to say an emphatic “no” to all forms of clericalism.

It is always helpful to remember that “in salvation history, the Lord saved one people. We are never completely ourselves unless we belong to a people. That is why no one is saved alone, as an isolated individual. Rather, God draws us to himself, taking into account the complex fabric of interpersonal relationships present in the human community. God wanted to enter into the life and history of a people” ( Gaudete et Exsultate , 6). Consequently, the only way that we have to respond to this evil that has darkened so many lives is to experience it as a task regarding all of us as the People of God. This awareness of being part of a people and a shared history will enable us to acknowledge our past sins and mistakes with a penitential openness that can allow us to be renewed from within. Without the active participation of all the Church’s members, everything being done to uproot the culture of abuse in our communities will not be successful in generating the necessary dynamics for sound and realistic change. The penitential dimension of fasting and prayer will help us as God’s People to come before the Lord and our wounded brothers and sisters as sinners imploring forgiveness and the grace of shame and conversion. In this way, we will come up with actions that can generate resources attuned to the Gospel. For “whenever we make the effort to return to the source and to recover the original freshness of the Gospel, new avenues arise, new paths of creativity open up, with different forms of expression, more eloquent signs and words with new meaning for today’s world” ( Evangelii Gaudium , 11).

It is essential that we, as a Church, be able to acknowledge and condemn, with sorrow and shame, the atrocities perpetrated by consecrated persons, clerics, and all those entrusted with the mission of watching over and caring for those most vulnerable. Let us beg forgiveness for our own sins and the sins of others. An awareness of sin helps us to acknowledge the errors, the crimes and the wounds caused in the past and allows us, in the present, to be more open and committed along a journey of renewed conversion.

Likewise, penance and prayer will help us to open our eyes and our hearts to other people’s sufferings and to overcome the thirst for power and possessions that are so often the root of those evils. May fasting and prayer open our ears to the hushed pain felt by children, young people and the disabled. A fasting that can make us hunger and thirst for justice and impel us to walk in the truth, supporting all the judicial measures that may be necessary. A fasting that shakes us up and leads us to be committed in truth and charity with all men and women of good will, and with society in general, to combatting all forms of the abuse of power, sexual abuse and the abuse of conscience.

In this way, we can show clearly our calling to be “a sign and instrument of communion with God and of the unity of the entire human race” ( Lumen Gentium , 1).

“If one member suffers, all suffer together with it”, said Saint Paul. By an attitude of prayer and penance, we will become attuned as individuals and as a community to this exhortation, so that we may grow in the gift of compassion, in justice, prevention and reparation. Mary chose to stand at the foot of her Son’s cross. She did so unhesitatingly, standing firmly by Jesus’ side. In this way, she reveals the way she lived her entire life. When we experience the desolation caused by these ecclesial wounds, we will do well, with Mary, “to insist more upon prayer”, seeking to grow all the more in love and fidelity to the Church (SAINT IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, Spiritual Exercises , 319). She, the first of the disciples, teaches all of us as disciples how we are to halt before the sufferings of the innocent, without excuses or cowardice. To look to Mary is to discover the model of a true follower of Christ.

May the Holy Spirit grant us the grace of conversion and the interior anointing needed to express before these crimes of abuse our compunction and our resolve courageously to combat them.

Vatican City, 20 August 2018

FRANCIS

______________

1 “But this kind [of demon] does not come out except by prayer and fasting” ( Mt 17:21).

2 Cf. Letter to the Pilgrim People of God in Chile (31 May 2018).

3 Letter to Cardinal Marc Ouellet, President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America (19 March 2016).

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Wednesday

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 12:56:00 GMT

Tomorrow, August 15th, is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Holy Day of Obligation. A vigil Mass for the Holy Day will be celebrated this evening at 6:30. Masses tomorrow will be celebrated at 7 AM and 12:10 PM. We look forward to celebrating this great feast with you!

Happy 60th Birthday to Bishop Mitchell Rozanski

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 19:53:00 GMT

We wish Bishop Mitchell Rozanski a very happy 60th birthday!

Bishop Mitch was born on this day in 1958 in Baltimore, MD, the oldest of three sons, to Alfred and Jean Rozanski, both of whom are still living. He grew up in Fells Point, MD, where he and his family were parishioners at Holy Rosary Parish. Bishop Mitch was installed as Bishop of Springfield on August 12, 2014.

We pray that Bishop Mitch will have a happy, healthy, and peaceful year ahead, with many more to follow.

Funeral for Gary Racicot Thursday (8/2) at 10 AM

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 15:57:00 GMT

Our parishioner Gary Racicot died on Saturday, July 28th after a very brief illness. We extend our prayerful condolences his wife, Linda, to their daughters, Rachael, Samantha, and Danielle, to his mother and father, to his siblings, and to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, August 2nd at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Gary's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Funeral for Kathleen Terry Wednesday (7/25) at 10:00 AM

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 11:14:00 GMT

We are deeply saddened to share that St. Francis of Assisi parishioner Kathleen Terry died on Friday, June 20th. We extend our prayerful condolences to her husband Keith and their children Grace, Calvin, and Amelia, and to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 25th at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take place immediately following the Mass at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181) in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Kathleen's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Funeral for Chris McGinnis Saturday (7/14) at 11:00 AM

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 09:59:00 GMT

Long-time and active St. Francis of Assisi parishioner Chris McGinnis died on Friday, June 6th. We extend our prayerful condolences her daughter Becky, and to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 14th at 11 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take immediately follow the Mass at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181) in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Chris' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Funeral for Carlton Barry Friday (7/6) at 10 AM

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 10:25:00 GMT

Carlton Richard Barry, died on Wednesday, June 27th. We extend our prayerful condolences his mother and father, his siblings, and to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 6th at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The burial will take place on Monday, July 9th, at 2:00 PM at Massachusetts Veterans' Cemetery, 1390 Main Street in Agawam.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Carlton's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Massachusetts Veterans' Cemetery in Agawam.

Priesthood Ordination Saturday at 11 AM at St. Michael's Cathedral

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 12:20:00 GMT

Deacons Frank Furman and Michael Kokoszka will be ordained to the priesthood by Springfield Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski on Saturday, June 30, at 11 AM, at St. Michael's Cathedral in Springfield.

Deacon Frank Furman is currently studying at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, where he will return in the Fall to complete an advanced degree before returning to Springfield for service within our Diocese.

Deacon Michael Kokoszka is from Ludlow and has finished his studies at St. John's Seminary in Brighton, MA. Deacon Michael will receive his assignment at ordination time and will soon begin his priestly ministry here in the Diocese.

If you wish to join Deacons Frank and Michael for their ordination, you may click here for directions to St. Michael's Cathedral, located at 260 State Street in Springfield .

The ordination will also be broadcast live. If you wish to watch from home, please click here at 11 AM on Saturday, June 30 .

Please keep Deacons Frank and Michael in your prayers as well as all of our seminarians.

K of C Council 10698 FUNdraiser

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 14:29:00 GMT

ALL DAY on Saturday, June 30th , the Friendly's restaurant at 529 Memorial Drive, Chicopee will donate 20% of their sales from purchases using the attached paper voucher. Please print the attached document for your use and give it to as many friends, neighbors and co-workers as you can to help us raise funds to continue our council's activities and benefit our community. (electronic coupons-phone may not be used for fundraiser consideration)

Click here for the voucher.

Mr. Andrew Pierz, Father of Fr. Pierz Passes

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 12:54:00 GMT

We are saddened to report that Mr. Andrew Pierz, the father of our former Parochial Vicar, Fr. Michael Pierz, died unexpectedly while traveling in Poland. Please keep Mr. Pierz' soul in your prayers as well as his wife Mariola, his sons, Fr. Michael and Mark, and all of his family and friends as they mourn his passing.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Andrew's soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, rest in peace. Amen.

Notes of condolence and Mass cards may be sent to Fr. Pierz at: St. John the Evangelist Church, 833 Main Street, Agawam, MA 01001.

Funeral for Francis Loftus Tuesday (5/21) at 11:00 AM

Fri, 25 May 2018 11:26:00 GMT

Our parishioner,Francis P. Loftus, died on Wednesday, May 23rd. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 29th at 11 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. Burial will be private.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Francis' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Deacon Bill Retires

Sun, 20 May 2018 11:11:00 GMT

This past week Deacon Bill Brawner informed Bishop Mitchell Rozanski of his intention to retire from active ministry. We extend to Deacon Bill our collective thanks for his years of service here at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. It is his desire that he exit quietly, which we will, naturally, respect. He now looks forward to spending more time with his wife Kathryn. We wish them both God's many blessings. The Parish Office will happily forward cards and notes of personal gratitude to Deacon Bill. The parish mailing address is: PO Box 612, Belchertown, MA 01007-0612.

MOVIE REVIEW: ‘Pope Francis: A Man of His Word’

Fri, 18 May 2018 13:20:00 GMT

MOVIE REVIEW: ‘Pope Francis: A Man of His Word’

NATIONAL
By John Mulderig, Catholic News Service

NEW YORK (CNS) — Veteran filmmaker Wim Wenders respectfully profiles the current successor of St. Peter in the well-crafted, sometimes moving documentary “Pope Francis: A Man of His Word” (Focus). Though Wenders also provides some narration, as his title suggests, he largely lets the pontiff speak for himself.

That approach pays off by allowing the audience to hear Francis’ views on a wide variety of topics of interest to believers and nonbelievers alike. These include the environment, the situation of young people, relations with the Islamic world, economic inequality and the clergy sex abuse crisis. Francis also sets out, in a general way, his vision for the future of the church. READ MORE....

Funeral for Edmund Pepin Thursday (5/17) at 11 AM

Wed, 16 May 2018 11:54:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Edmund J. Pepin, Jr., died on Sunday, May 13th. We extend our prayerful condolences his wife, Linda, and to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 17th at 11 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. Burial will follow at South Cemetery, located at 143 Mill Valley Road (Route 181), here in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Ed's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to South Cemetery.

Funeral for Jennie M. McCullough Thursday (5/3) at 10:00 AM

Tue, 01 May 2018 19:11:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Jennie McCullough, died on Monday, April 30th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 3rd at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. Burial is private and there are no calling hours.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Jennie's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

2018 Holy Week Schedule

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 18:48:00 GMT

Saturday, March 24: VIGIL, PALM SUNDAY
4:00 PM Mass

Sunday, March 25: PALM SUNDAY
Mass at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM
2:30 PM Parish Reconciliation

Monday, March 26
8:00 AM Mass
7:00 PM Chrism Mass
(St. Michael’s Cathedral, 260 State Street, Springfield)

Tuesday, March 27
8:00 AM Mass

Wednesday, March 28
8:00 AM Mass
6:00 PM Stations of the Cross
6:30 PM Mass

Thursday, March 29: HOLY THURSDAY
8:00 AM Morning Prayer
5:30 PM Potluck Supper (Pine Room)
7:00 PM Mass of the Lord’s Supper,
followed by Adoration in the Chapel until 10:00 PM

Friday, March 30: GOOD FRIDAY
8:00 AM Morning Prayer
12:00 PM Children’s Way of the Cross
3:00 PM & 7:00 PM Passion of the Lord

Saturday, March 31: HOLY SATURDAY
8:00 AM Morning Prayer
8:00 PM Easter Vigil Mass

Sunday, April 1: EASTER SUNDAY
Mass at 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, and 10:30 AM

Daily Mass Cancelled for Tuesday (3/13)

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 18:45:00 GMT

****WEATHER ALERT**** Due to the predicted snow, Belchertown schools are closed on Tuesday, March 13th. Therefore, Daily Mass has been canceled. The Mass intention will be rescheduled. If you need to be on the road, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Funeral for Anita Peloquin Friday (3/9) at 10:00 AM

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 17:07:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Anita Peloquin, died on Saturday, March 3rd. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 9th at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will follow at Notre Dame Cemetery in South Hadley.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Anita's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Notre Dame Cemetery in South Hadley.

Daily Mass Cancelled for Thursday (3/8)

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 07:51:00 GMT

****WEATHER ALERT**** Due to the predicted snow, Belchertown schools are closed on Thursday, March 8th.. Therefore, Daily Mass has been canceled. The Mass intention will be rescheduled. If you need to be on the road, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Snow Cancellations for Wednesday 3/7

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 15:51:00 GMT

Due to the weather, there will be no Confessions, Stations of the Cross, or Mass this evening. The Men of St. Joseph will not meet this evening. If you must travel during the storm, we pray that you will so so in safety. Please pray for those working to clear our streets and all first responders.

Parish Lenten Mission March 19-21

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 16:11:00 GMT

Diocesan Listening Sessions Have Begun

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 07:13:00 GMT

Listening sessions now underway! Catholics are invited to voice concerns and insights on Catholic Church directly to Bishop Rozanski at nine diocesan regional listening sessions (the first one was held on Tuesday, February 20th at Holy Trinity Church in Greenfield). During the hour-and-a-half session, participants will have the opportunity to respond to three questions:

The next listening sessions will be as follows:

All begin at 7pm. In addition a Spanish session will be held on March 3 at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Springfield.

http://iobserve.org/2018/02/21/parishioners-voice-concerns-at-first-diocesan-listening-session/

Funeral for Joan Marie Gagnon Thursday (2/22) at 10 AM

Sun, 18 Feb 2018 16:09:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Joan Marie Gagnon, died on Friday, February 16th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 22nd at 10 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will follow at St. Jerome Cemetery in Holyoke.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Joan's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to St. Jerome Cemetery in Holyoke.

2018 Lenten Regulations

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 19:09:00 GMT

DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD

LENTEN REGULATIONS

Funeral for Rosalina (Martins) Mucaria Thursday (2/8) at 4 PM

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 23:37:00 GMT

Rosalina (Martins) Mucaria, mother of parishioner Gloria Fortunato, died on Tuesday, January 30th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, February 8th, at 4 PM, ministered by Deacon Bill, at the Ludlow Funeral Home, located at 432 East Street in Ludlow.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Rosalina's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for Rosalina's Obituary and other information.

Wednesday's Daily Mass Canceled (2/7)

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 22:37:00 GMT

****WEATHER ALERT**** Due to the predicted snow, Belchertown schools are closed on Wednesday, February 7th. Therefore, Wednesday's Daily Mass has been canceled. The Mass intention will be rescheduled. If you need to be on the road, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Funeral for Roger Archambault Tuesday (2/6) at 11:00 AM

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 13:14:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Roger Archambault, died on Tuesday, January 30th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 6th at 11 AM, by our pastor, Fr. Jack Sheaffer, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown.

The Rite of Committal will be celebrated on Tuesday at 1:00 PM at Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, following the Funeral Mass.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Roger's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

First Friday Mass Canceled

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 06:41:00 GMT

****WEATHER ALERT**** Due to the overnight snow, Belchertown school openings have been delayed two hours. Therefore, this morning's First Friday Mass has been canceled. The Mass intention for today will be rescheduled. If you need to be on the road this morning, we pray that you will travel in safety.

Quarterly Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick at Mass Begins Weekend of February 17 & 18

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 14:57:00 GMT

Beginning the weekend of February 17 & 18, we will celebrate the Sacrament of the Sick during weekend Masses four times per year.

In the Church's Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, through the ministry of the priest, it is Jesus who touches the sick to heal them from sin – and sometimes even from physical ailment. His cures were signs of the arrival of the Kingdom of God. The core message of his healing tells us of his plan to conquer sin and death by his dying and rising.

The Rite of Anointing tells us there is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death to receive the Sacrament. A careful judgment about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient.

When the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given, the hoped-for effect is that, if it be God's will, the person be physically healed of illness. But even if there is no physical healing, the primary effect of the Sacrament is a spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit's gift of peace and courage to deal with the difficulties that accompany serious illness or the frailty of old age. (USCCB)

Fr. Jack regularly visits the homebound members of our parish for a visit and to celebrate the Sacrament of Anointing with them two or three times per year, as well as periodic visits to nursing homes and hospitals, and in times of emergency. If you or a loved one cannot attend Mass and would like to celebrate the Sacrament, please contact Louise at the Parish Office at (413) 323-6272 to schedule a time.

The dates for the Masses with the Sacrament of the Sick for 2018 will be:

February 17-18, May 5-6, August 18-19, and November 17-18.

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 9

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 09:34:00 GMT

Intercession: For God's peace to fill the hearts of all who travel upon the path of adoption. Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be Reflection: The Letter to the Hebrews reminds us to "hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm" (Heb 6:18-19). We pray that all who are involved in the adoption process would be filled with the hope of Christ and "the peace of God that surpasses all understanding" (Phil 4:7). We also remember that we too can cling fast to this anchor of hope, for we have received "a spirit of adoption, through which we cry, 'Abba, Father!'" (Rom 8:15). May our loving Father envelop each of us in his love today and open our eyes in faith that we may see and rejoice in his love. Acts of Reparation (choose one): Make an act of faith, hope, or love (www.usccb.org/faith-hope-love). Fast from snacking today. Eat three meals only. In "An Adoption Love Story," Jenny* shares her and her husband's story of adopting their son, Andrew. Read about some of the challenges, concerns, and joys on their journey at www.usccb.org/adoption-love-story, and spend some extra time in prayer for all who are involved in the adoption process. One Step Further: "Accompanying Expectant Mothers Considering Adoption" suggests nine ways to offer ongoing support to a woman who is considering placing her unborn child for adoption (www.usccb.org/women-considering-adoption). Many of the tips given are also helpful for supporting a friend who is experiencing a challenging unexpected pregnancy, even if adoption has not been brought up. Supplemental reference information regarding adoption can be found at www.usccb.org/adoption-resources. *Names changed for privacy. NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission. Copyright © 2018, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 8

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 20:39:00 GMT

Intercession: For an end to the use of the death penalty in our country. Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be Reflection: As Catholics, we believe and put our hope in a merciful and loving God. We are conscious of our own brokenness and need for redemption. Our Lord calls us to imitate him more perfectly by witnessing to the inherent dignity of every person, including those whose actions have been despicable. Our faith and hope is in the mercy of God who says to us, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy" (Mt 5:7) and "I desire mercy, not sacrifice" (Mt 9:13). As Christians, we are called to oppose the culture of death by witnessing to something greater and more perfect: a gospel of life, hope and mercy. Acts of Reparation (choose one): Do something kind for someone else without being asked or telling anyone. Pray for him or her while you do so. Smile. Ask God today for the grace to be extra joyful and share Christ's love with those who need encouragement the most today. Read about the life of a modern saint. You might be surprised by how much you have in common with him or her. One Step Further: For some people who are committed to upholding the sanctity of human life, the death penalty can present a challenge. Properly understood, however, Catholic teaching against the death penalty is both persuasive and eminently pro-life. Learn about the death penalty within the context of respect for God's gift of human life in "Death Penalty: Catholic Q & A" (www.usccb.org/death-penalty-faq). NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission. Copyright © 2018, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 7

Wed, 24 Jan 2018 05:51:00 GMT

Intercession: May those who long for a child of their own be filled with trust in God's loving plan. Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be Reflection: It can be very difficult and painful when the Lord doesn't answer our prayers the way we hope. We may have many doubts and questions, wondering why we face the challenges that we do. Yet even though our suffering is often shrouded in a sense of mystery, we believe that the Lord loves us with great tenderness and compassion that is beyond our imagination. Knowing this, we can trust that "all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose" (Rom 8:28). Acts of Reparation (choose one): Give up your favorite form (or all forms) of social media for the day. Spend some of the extra time meditating upon Romans 8:28 or another Scripture verse or passage. Learn how to pray the Angelus prayer and consider saying it every day for the next week— on awakening, at noon, or at 6 p.m. (or all three times). www.usccb.org/angelus. Spend quality time with a family member or friend; offer to help them in some way. One Step Further: "Seven Considerations While Navigating Infertility" (www.usccb.org/navigating-infertility) seeks to provide compassionate guidance that is both practical and informative for married couples who are walking on this road. Although geared to such couples, the article is also helpful for anyone to read, offering insight into the experience of infertility and giving awareness of the need for sensitivity in our relationships with those who may be affected. NABRE © 2010 CCD. Used with permission. Copyright © 2018, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 6

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 11:47:00 GMT

Intercession: May those near the end of their lives receive medical care that respects their dignity and protects their lives.

Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

Reflection: When Maggie's active father suffered an accident that eventually led to his passing, he taught her that pain and loss of autonomy doesn't diminish our human dignity, and that life—however much is left—is worth living.

As a 50-year-old wife and mother of three, Maggie needed this message when she was diagnosed with a terminal illness. Instead of giving up hope, she embraced her father's legacy: "[M]y life is, always has been, and always will be, worth living."

Meet Maggie in a 3-minute video ( www.goo.gl/SGF7rP ), and read the brief article it inspired: " Maggie's Story: Living like Dad " ( www.usccb.org/maggies-story ).

Acts of Reparation (choose one):

One Step Further: Proponents of doctor-assisted suicide try to draw a sharp (and tragic) distinction between those with a mental illness who want to end their lives and those already nearing death who express the same wish. Although polls indicate the public is receptive to the general concept of assisted suicide, when people understand the associated dangers, they are less likely to support the practice.

Learn seven compelling reasons you can share for opposing assisted suicide: " Top Reasons to Oppose Assisted Suicide " ( www.usccb.org/reasons-against-assisted-suicide ).

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 5

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 19:08:00 GMT

Intercession: May each person suffering from the loss of a child through abortion find hope & healing in Christ.

Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

Reflection: Today, on this 45 ^th anniversary of Roe v. Wade , we consider the past four decades in which our society has legally permitted abortion. Since that tragic decision, many children's lives have been lost, and many suffer that loss—often in silence. Yet God's greatest desire is to forgive. No matter how far we have each strayed from his side, he says to us, "Don't be afraid. Draw close to my heart."

"In the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation, also called confession, we meet the Lord, who wants to grant forgiveness and the grace to live a renewed life in him. … We bishops and priests are eager to help you if you experience difficulty, hesitation, or uncertainty about approaching the Lord in this sacrament. …we are ready to welcome you."*

Let us run into the arms of Jesus, who is love and mercy.

Acts of Reparation (choose one):

One Step Further: If a friend confided in you tomorrow that she had an abortion, would you be able to respond in a way that brings her closer to healing? Learn what to do and say in "How to Talk to a Friend Who's Had an Abortion" ( www.usccb.org/friend-had-abortion ).

Did You Know? In the Catholic Church in the United States, January 22 ^nd is designated as a particular day of prayer and penance, called the "Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children." As Catholics, we are called to observe this day through the penitential practices of prayer, fasting, and/or giving alms.

More Information: www.usccb.org/january-22 .

*"God's Gift of Forgiveness: Pastoral Exhortation on the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation," www.usccb.org/forgiveness .

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 4

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 19:07:00 GMT

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 3

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 19:05:00 GMT

Intercession: For victims and survivors of human trafficking.

Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

Reflection: Pope Francis calls for a renewed commitment to end human trafficking, which he aptly describes as "deplorable…cruel…criminal" (Angelus, 7/30/2017). International Labor Organization's 2014 estimate placed the number of traffic victims — men, women, and children — at 21 million worldwide.

Those who are vulnerable are most at risk for being lured into situations where they are trafficked, particularly migrants and refugees. They face significant barriers such as language and adapting to a new culture, lack of support systems, and the burden of poverty. Easily tempted by false promises of traffickers, they often find themselves in forced labor situations with no means of escape.

When we meet others in our daily lives who have come from other lands, are we extending them the simple warmth of a smile and a welcome? Are we in tune to the red flags that might indicate trafficking in our own communities? Learn more about how you can fight trafficking under "One Step Further."

Acts of Reparation (choose one):

One Step Further: Would you know how to identify a potential trafficking situation? Learn more about human trafficking and the red flags through the USCCB's Anti-Trafficking Program at www.usccb.org/about/anti-trafficking-program/index.cfm

Almost half of the reported victims of human trafficking in the U.S. in 2016 were foreign nationals. Consider bringing the Amistad Movement to your parish to help raise awareness about human trafficking among immigrant populations. www.usccb.org/about/anti-trafficking-program/amistad.cfm

If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-3737-888) for immediate assistance. They can communicate in over 200 languages and provide immediate information, assistance, and local referrals for potential human trafficking situations.

Excerpt from Pope Francis, "Angelus" © 2017, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, Vatican City. Used with permission. Copyright © 2018, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved .

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 2

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 08:38:00 GMT

Intercession: For the end to abortion.

Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

Reflection: More women and girls consider abortion than we may realize. They are our relatives and friends, people who work with us or for us, married or unmarried. Even if someone identifies as being pro-life, the shock of an unexpected pregnancy, the devastation of a difficult prenatal diagnosis, shame, pressures, or fears may influence her to consider abortion.

If someone shared with you she was pregnant and hadn't ruled out having an abortion, would you know how to respond in a loving way that is life-affirming for both her and her baby?

Learn about the four steps of the L.O.V.E. Approach™*: Listen and Learn , Open Options , Vision and Value , and Extend and Empower ( www.usccb.org/l-o-v-e ).

Acts of Reparation (choose one):

One Step Further: Find out other simple tips on how to provide loving, life-affirming support for a friend who is unexpectedly pregnant: "10 Ways to Support Her When She's Unexpectedly Expecting" ( www.usccb.org/support-her ).

*The L.O.V.E. Approach™ is trademarked by Heartbeat International, Inc. and may not be adapted or modified. The L.O.V.E. Approach™ is used in "What to Do When a Friend Is Considering Abortion" with permission from Heartbeat International, Inc. Copyright © 2017, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

9 Days for Life Novena - Day 1

Thu, 18 Jan 2018 08:02:00 GMT

Intercession: May a culture of life grow ever stronger in our communities. Prayers: Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be Reflection: From each tiny child waiting to be born, to people nearing death, all are precious and deserve our care and protection. Women and men suffering after abortion, individuals tempted to end their lives, expectant mothers facing challenging pregnancies, people pushed to the margins of society by a "throwaway culture," and every other person—each "has a place in God's heart from all eternity" (Amoris laetitia, 168). As Pope Saint John Paul II reminds us in The Gospel of Life, we are asked not only to love and honor human life, but also "to work with perseverance and courage" to establish "a new culture of life, the fruit of the culture of truth and of love" (no 77). Acts of Reparation (choose one): "Unplug" for some time praying in silence with a short reflection on this year's Respect Life theme, "Be Not Afraid" (www.usccb.org/be-not-afraid). Use one of our Respect Life social media toolkits (www.usccb.org/prolifetools) to build up a culture of life on social media. Do you love your cup of tea or coffee? Fast from caffeine today, or try your coffee black. One Step Further: Watching the news and reading the headlines, we may sometimes feel helpless seeing the heartbreaking lack of respect for human life. How do we respond to Pope Saint John Paul II's invitation when our efforts to make a difference feel small? "How to Build a Culture of Life" (www.usccb.org/culture-of-life) briefly explains where to start. Evangelium vitae (The Gospel of Life), no.77 © 1995; Amoris laetitia (The Joy of Love), no. 168 © 2016, Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Used with permission. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2017, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

Slight Change in Reconciliation Schedule Begins in February

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 13:30:00 GMT

Beginning in February, we will be making a change to the schedule for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in order to make it more convenient for more people to avail themselves of the Sacrament.

On the weekend during which the first Sunday of each month falls, there will be no Confessions on Saturday. Instead Confessions will be heard on those Sundays from 7:15 AM to 7:45 AM, and from 9:45 AM to 10:15 AM. During the Lenten and Advent seasons, on the weekend of the first Sunday of the month, Confessions will be heard at both the Saturday and Sunday times.

In case there is any confusion, please note that there will be no Saturday Confessions on the following dates in 2018: February 3, March 31 (Holy Saturday), May 5, June 2, June 30, August 4, September 1, October 6, and November 3.

Sunday morning Confessions will heard on the following dates in 2018: February 4, March 4, May 6, June 3, July 1, August 5, September 2, October 7, November 4, and December 2.

Please note that the Sacrament of Reconciliation may also be celebrated by appointment. To schedule an appointment, please call Louise at the Parish Office at (413) 323-6272.

WEATHER ALERT Wednesday's Daily Mass Canceled Due to storm

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 19:58:00 GMT

Due to the current snowstorm, Mass is cancelled on Wednesday, January 17th. The intention for the day will be rescheduled on the next convenient day. If you must travel, we pray that you will do so safely.

Irish Night Dinner on Saturday, March 10th

Thu, 11 Jan 2018 13:18:00 GMT

ANNUAL IRISH NIGHT DINNER

Saturday, March 10th

5 PM - 8 PM

In the Pine Room

Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus St. Francis of Assisi Council 10698

Menu: C orned Beef & Cabbage, Potatoes, Carrots, Soda Bread, Cake, Coffee, Tea (BYOB)

Entertainment and a ’50-50’ raffle.

Cost per person :

Free to K of C Council 10698 members with a valid 2018 membership card.

Others:

Adults - $10

Children: 4-12 yrs old - $5; under 4 - no charge

“Take out” $10, available with advanced notice .

A limited number of tickets (100) for seated dining will be available on a “first come, first served” basis at: Council 10698 meetings; St. Francis weekend Masses beginning Feb. 3 ^rd ; or by contacting Past Grand Knight Bill Bowen (413) 323-7080.

Diocese Searching for Wellness Coordinator for Retired Priests

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 18:12:00 GMT

Diocese of Springfield Job Posting
Wellness Coordinator

The Diocese of Springfield has a newly created opportunity for a Wellness Coordinator who will coordinate all services and programs in a supportive and holistic environment for the retired priests of the Diocese of Springfield.

We are seeking a RN, BSN preferred and MA licensure. Two years of experience in community care/elder services is preferred. Qualifications include knowledge of HIPPA requirements, Medicare and Medicaid and additional resources for the care of the retired priests.

Appreciation and support of the traditions and values of the Catholic Community along with excellent communication skills are necessary, and travel is required. This position is 20-25 hours per week, initially.

Please submit your resume and cover letter to:
Catherine Farr, Director, Human Resources
65 Elliott Street, Springfield, MA 01105
c.farr@diospringfield.org
(P) 413-452-0683
(F) 413-452-0681

WEATHER ALERT First Friday Mass Canceled (1/5)

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 21:10:00 GMT

Belchertown schools have a 2-hour delay on Friday, January 5th, therefore morning Mass is canceled. The intention for the day will be rescheduled on the next convenient day.

WEATHER ALERT Thursday's Daily Mass Canceled (1/4)

Wed, 03 Jan 2018 21:51:00 GMT

Belchertown schools will be closed Thursday, January 4th, due to the predicted storm. Whenever Belchertown schools are closed or delayed due to weather, Daily Mass is canceled. The intention for the day will be rescheduled on the next convenient day. Please pray for those who have to travel during the storm as well as those who will be working to clear our roads.

Funeral for Doris Lattrell Thursday (12/28) at 10:00 AM

Tue, 26 Dec 2017 10:45:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Doris Lattrell, died on Thursday, December 21st. We extend our prayerful condolences to her son, Ted (Alice) and her daughter Judy Koob (Dennis) and to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 28th, at 10 AM, by our pastor, Fr. Jack Sheaffer, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will follow at St. Aloysius Cemetery in Indian Orchard.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O LORD. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Doris' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for Doris' Obituary and other information from Beers and Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to St. Aloysius Cemetery in Indian Orchard.

Christmas Mass Schedule

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 09:19:00 GMT

Our Christmas Mass Schedule is as follows:

Christmas Eve, December 24th
4 PM (Choir Mass)
6 PM (Mass with Children's Christmas Pageant)
12 AM (Midnight Mass)

Christmas Day, December 25th
10 AM

Note that we have an obligation to celebrate both the Fourth Sunday of Advent (December 23/24) AND Christmas. They are separate celebrations. The Fourth Sunday of Advent is our regular Mass schedule (Saturday at 4 PM, Sunday at 8 AM and 10:30 AM). Due to the Christmas schedule, there is no Life Teen Mass at 5:30 PM on December 24th (nor December 31st).

MA Bishops Respond to MA Medical Society's Change in Position on Physician-Assisted Suicide

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 14:59:00 GMT

The Massachusetts Medical Society has changed its position on Physician-Assisted Suicide from one of opposition to one of neutrality. The society's governing board made this change last Friday after more than four hours of debate on the issue, according to an article appearing on masslive.com .

In response to this change, the Roman Catholic bishops of the four dioceses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have made the following statement through the Massachusetts Catholic Conference:

This past weekend the Massachusetts Medical Society (MMS) voted to alter their official position on the issue of Physician Assisted Suicide. A vote changing from a position of strongly opposed to Physician Assisted Suicide to one of neutrality is disappointing and sends the wrong message to the citizens of
Massachusetts. The disappointment is magnified given the fact that physicians are trained to care for the ill, not to hasten death. The Catholic Bishops of Massachusetts stand united in our strong opposition to Physician Assisted Suicide. It is an affront to life and a dangerous precedent for determining end of life issues.

For more information about the Church's position on Physician-Assisted Suicide, visit the Massachusetts Catholic Conference's page on the issue by clicking here .

Holy Day of Obligation This Friday (12/8)

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 14:26:00 GMT

On Friday, December 8th, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary . This Solemnity celebrates our belief in the conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, free from original sin, by virtue of the foreseen merits of her son Jesus Christ. The Church teaches us that, while Mary was conceived by normal biological means in the womb of her mother, Saint Anne, God the Father acted upon her soul, keeping it immaculate".

The Immaculate Conception is frequently confused with the Virgin Birth of Jesus. The Immaculate Conception deals with the conception of Mary, not that of Jesus.

While the belief that Mary was conceived with an immaculate soul has been widely held since around 300 A.D., the doctrine was not dogmatically defined until 1854, by Pope Pius IX.

Masses for the holy day will be celebrated in the church on Thursday at 6:30 PM, and on Friday at 7 AM and 12:10 PM .

Life in the Spirit Seminar Coming to St. Francis of Assisi

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 12:35:00 GMT

The 2018 St. Francis of Assisi "Life in the Spirit Seminar" will be offered Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 PM beginning on February 8th through March 22nd in the Pine Room. This Lenten season, enjoy this powerful enrichment experience, which consists of a series of seven consecutive weekly presentations and prayer, culminating in a Baptism of the Holy Spirit for the participants. A $15 fee will cover materials and other costs. Space is limited, so please register early. Letters of application, along with the fee, may be placed in the collection basket or mailed to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, PO Box 612, Belchertown, MA 01007-0612. For more information, please call Gil DaCosta at (413) 323-7896 or Paul Vanasse at (413) 813-8442.

Thanksgiving Day Mass at 9:00 AM

Sat, 18 Nov 2017 14:39:00 GMT

Our Thanksgiving Day Mass will be celebrated in the church this coming Thursday, November 23, 2017 at 9:00 AM . We hope you can join us. If not, know that our prayers are with you as you travel and as you spend time with family and friends.

Bishop Mitch has offered the following prayer as a suggestion for our prayer at table on Thanksgiving:

O Gracious God, we give You thanks for Your overflowing generosity to us. Thank You for our home and family and friends, especially for those gathered here today. Thank You for the blessings of the food we eat and especially for this feast today. Thank You for our health, our work and our play.

Open our hearts to Your love so we may help those who are hungry, alone, sick and suffering war and violence. We gratefully remember too, our family members and loved ones who are not here with us physically and celebrate the gift which they have been and continue to be for us. May we live this and every day grateful for all that has been given to us.

We make this prayer as we do all things through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Sr. Louise Thomas, SSJ, dies at 92

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 18:49:00 GMT

From iObserve.org

NATICK, MA. – Sister of St. Joseph Louise Thomas McIsaac (Rita), 92, a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield, died in Natick on Nov. 12.

A native of Worcester, Mass., she was the daughter of George and Ethel (Hurley) McIsaac.

She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield from St. Peter Parish, Worcester, in 1947. She graduated from South High School, Worcester. She earned a bachelor of arts degree from the College of Our Lady of the Elms, Chicopee, and a master of education degree from Heed University, Florida.

She ministered in the Diocese of Springfield at the former Annunciation School, Northampton; the former St. Mary School, Pittsfield; and for most of her teaching career in Holyoke, at Sacred Heart School, St. Jerome School, Blessed Sacrament School as principal, and at Holyoke Catholic High School, where she was director of performing arts and coordinator of community service. She also served in the Diocesan Schools Office of Communication.

She became a member of St. Joseph Retirement Community at Mont Marie in 2008, and more recently resided at Bethany Health Care Center in Framingham.

In addition to her sisters in community, she is survived by her sister, Margaret Konkol, and several loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, two brothers and three sisters.

All services for Sister Louise Thomas will take place in St. Joseph Chapel at Mont Marie on Wednesday, Nov. 15. She will be waked from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., with a prayer service at 10 a.m. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Mont Marie Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph, 577 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104 .

St. Francis of Assisi NCYC Heads to Indianapolis

Sun, 12 Nov 2017 15:47:00 GMT

The members of NCYC and their chaperones received a special Blessing of Pilgrims at the conclusion of the 10:30 Mass on Sunday, November 12. On Wednesday, they will depart for Indianapolis for the bi-annual NCYC conference, which will be held from Thursday to Sunday. They will join more than 25,000 other young people from across the country for a variety of activities including prayer, worship, concerts and talks.

Keynote speakers include Chris Stefanick, Sr. Miriam Heidland, Roy Petitfils, Brian Greenfield, Fr. Joseph A. Espallat, II, and Emily Wilson . Concerts will be performed by Grammy® Award winner Christian HipHop artist, TobyMac , and five-time Grammy® nominated artist Matt Maher .

Please keep our young people in your prayers: that this time of pilgrimage may be filled with the grace of God and that they may travel in safety.

Pope Francis High School to celebrate ‘Spirit of the Season’

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 18:20:00 GMT

(iObserve Photo/Courtesy Pope Francis High School)

Story from iObserve.org

CHICOPEE – Pope Francis High School will host “Spirit of the Season,” an evening of holiday music, hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, and silent and live auctions, Thursday, Dec. 7 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The event will be held at the school located at 134 Springfield St., Chicopee.

“This festive evening helps to usher in the Christmas season with an enjoyable night for parents and friends of Pope Francis High School,” said Anne Pellan-Shea, director of alumni relations at the school and organizer of the event. “The evening is a great fundraiser for us, and the entire school community works together to contribute exciting items for guests to bid on.”

Homerooms and faculty groups are creating amazing theme baskets that will be up for bid in the silent auction. Creations include a “Chocolate Lovers Basket”; “Hello Beautiful Spa Basket”; “All things Coffee”; “Christmas in Napa”; “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas”; and “Lottery Card Mania,” to name a few.

Also available during the silent auction are a 55” television, a one-hour photo session with RE Photography of Monson, and a golf foursome at Springfield Country Club.

The event – geared for adults – will also include a live auction during which attendees may bid on a stocked wine cooler, and a week-long getaway at a home in picturesque York, Maine, and more.

“We’ve got something to offer just about everyone on your Christmas gift-giving list this year,” said Pellan-Shea. “We invite you to experience the spirit of the season by sharing an evening of festivities, food and fun.”

Tickets are available now through Dec. 1: $25 each or $40 when purchasing two. A free drink ticket will be given with every ticket purchased. Proceeds from the event will benefit student programs and activities at Pope Francis High School.

For more information or to purchase event tickets, please contact Dianne Regnier at dregnier@popefrancishigh.org or call (413)331-2480, Ext. 1271.

To learn more about the future of Pope Francis High School, visit popefrancishigh.org .

Funeral for Rose Letourneau Methot Thursday (11/9) at 10 AM

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 10:12:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Rose Letourneau Methot, died on Sunday, November 5th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, November 9th, at 10 AM, by our pastor, Fr. Jack Sheaffer, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Ware.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Rose's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for Rose's Obituary and other information.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Ware.

Bishop Mitch Releases Statement Voicing Opposition to Physician-Assisted Suicide

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 17:23:00 GMT

Springfield Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski has released the following statement reiterating his opposition to physician assisted suicide. Measures have been endorsed in Northampton and will go before the Amherst Town Meeting this evening. These and other local efforts are happening in an effort to lobby the Massachusetts Legislature, which is currently considering, in committee, a bill that would allow physician-assisted suicide in the Commonwealth Massachusetts.

In September, the Massachusetts Medical Society also issued a statement opposing physician-assisted suicide legislation.

Bishop Mitch's Statement:

Parishioner Chris Drewniak Competing to Raise funds for Pathlight

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 10:28:00 GMT

Parishioner and longtime Altar Server Chris Drewniak is participating in a dance competition fundraiser for Pathlight in Springfield. Pathlight provides enrichment and recreation programs for teens and adults with disabilities.

Chris has teamed up with a young lady named Oliwia Bragiel, who was Miss Polonia of Massachusetts 2017, to participate in Pathlight’s “Let’s Dance” fundraiser. It’s like "Dancing With the Stars". Oliwia and Chris are one of ten couples. With the help of professional dance instructors, each couple is learning a different dance routine which we will perform at the Gateway City Arts in Holyoke on Saturday, November 18.

As a team, Chris and Oliwia have set a goal is to raise $2,000. One of the ways to help them reach their goal is by voting for them online by clicking here . Voting costs $5. You can vote in multiples and you can vote more than once. Click here to reach the website that gives you more information about the event and the contestants. You can also see each of the ten contestants, as well as a short video of one of their dance rehearsals. Click here for a flyer with information about the "Let's Dance Fundraiser."

Voting starts now and ends on Friday, November 17, the day before the event. Every vote brings them closer to their goal. Would you please pledge your support with a donation to their team?

Funeral Mass for Vivian Collard Wednesday (10/25) at 11 AM

Tue, 24 Oct 2017 10:45:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Vivian Collard, died on Wednesday, October 18th. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 25th at 11 AM, by our pastor, Fr. Jack Sheaffer, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Vivian's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Hillcrest Cemetery in Belchertown.

World Mission Sunday - October 22, 2017

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 11:01:00 GMT

WORLD MISSION SUNDAY 2017

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Each October, the celebration of World Mission Sunday leads us to the heart of our Christian faith, leads us to mission, as Pope Francis explains in his message for this year’s celebration on October 22.

The collection on the next-to-last Sunday in October is unique. It is truly a global effort for the entire Church. It is a central moment each year to provide for the building up of over one thousand local churches in Asia and Africa, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe, an area that covers more than half the territory of the globe. Through the work of these churches, and their witnesses to Christ, the poor receive practical help and experience God’s love and mercy, His hope and peace.

The materials for World Mission Sunday from the Society of the Propagation of the Faith encourage an ongoing formative relationship for mission, offering portraits of today’s missionaries inspired by the words of our chief missionary, Pope Francis.

I invite all of us in the Diocese of Springfield to see World Mission Sunday as a special moment of encounter with the Pope’s missions throughout the world. Meeting the priests, religious and lay leaders who, day in and day out, witness to the Gospel and serve the poor, will, as Pope Francis says, “enable the missionary heart of Christian communities to join in prayer, testimony of life and communion of goods, in responding to the vast and pressing needs of evangelization.

As I remain grateful for your generosity, I ask your full support, through prayer and sacrifice, on World Mission Sunday and throughout the year, as you are able.

Faithfully yours in the Lord,

Most Reverend Mitchell T. Rozanski

Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield

Cathedral Class of '67 to host Reunion

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 10:45:00 GMT

CHS Class of '67 Reunion

The Cathedral High School Class of 1967 will celebrate its 50th Reunion on October 20, 21 and 22, 2017.

On the night of Oct. 20 anytime from 7-11PM class members and their guests are invited to start off the weekend by dropping in for a casual meet up with classmates at Samuel's located at 1000 Hall of Fame Ave in Springfield. The main Reunion event will be held on Saturday, October 21 from 4-10PM at Storrowtown Tavern and Carriage House at Storrowtown Village, 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, on the grounds of the Big E. The event will include a casual dinner, cocktail party and great entertainment. Tickets for Saturday are $50 per person. The deadline for ordering tickets is October 10.

For event details and information on how to order tickets and reserve a room you can email Marcia Burzynski Lukon at Marcia.Lukon@gmail.com or go online to the Cathedral High School Alumni Facebook Page or the Pope Francis High School website's Alumni Page .

If you know of members of the Class of '67 who may not have heard about the Reunion please send them a link to this blog post.

Purple Mass for those with Dementia November 4th in Springfield

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 10:36:00 GMT

The 4th annual Purple Mass, to pray for a cure and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease as well as offering spiritual support to those suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, along with their loved ones and caregivers., will be held at St. Michael’s Cathedral in Springfield on Saturday, November 4th at 4 PM All are welcome, including those with dementia and their caretakers, their families and friends.

The Purple Mass began in 2014 through the efforts of Joy Danita Allen and the Ladies of St. Peter Claver Auxiliary.

Many people suffer from a form of dementia, the most common being Alzheimer’s, and, in addition, many more are caregivers to loved ones suffering from this type of brain disease, according to a news release from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield.

Back in 2014, Ms. Allen said that few know about other families’ struggles with the disease, because dementia still has a social stigma attached to it.

“I do believe people still keep it quiet. I believe people still are not educated that it is dementia,” she said. “For those who have it, it is a very difficult piece of information to share with others. So, unless someone freely discusses it, it’s usually not talked about."

“Raising awareness and acknowledging the disease, we hope, will prompt people to get help and support; to learn different ways that healthy lifestyles can change one’s odds of getting dementia,” Ms. Allen said.

People of all faiths are invited to attend the November 4th Purple Mass. It has been suggested that those attending wear something purple to show support for those dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia.

The Purple Mass is a diocesan-wide service. For more information, call St. Michael's Cathedral at (413) 781-3656.

Annual Blessing of the Animals Sunday October 8th at 3 PM

Sat, 07 Oct 2017 13:13:00 GMT

Please join us for our annual Blessing of the Animals, which will take place this Sunday, October 8th at 3 PM at the Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown . Our patron saint, St. Francis of Assisi, is also the patron saint of animals. So, in the spirit of St. Francis, all kinds of animals are welcome! We hope you can join us.

Directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Funeral Mass for Everett Dougherty Tuesday (10/10) at 11 AM

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 16:18:00 GMT

Our parishioner, Everett Dougherty, died on Tuesday, October 3rd. We extend our prayerful condolences to all of his family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 10th at 11 AM, by our pastor, Fr. Jack Sheaffer, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown.

The Rite of Committal will be celebrated on Thursday, October 12th at 10 AM at Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May Everett's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

St. Francis of Assisi Feast Day Celebrations

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 22:13:00 GMT

St. Francis of Assisi Feast Day is October 4th. Our annual pot luck will be held Tuesday, October 3rd at 5:30 PM in the Pine Room. Sign-up sheets can be found in the gathering space of the Church. We will then hold the Transitus at 7:00 PM in the Church. The Transitus is a prayerful celebration of the death of St. Francis and includes readings regarding his death, sacred Scripture, and sung responses. It is highlighted by the sharing of the blessed bread and the blessing of the congregation with our relic of this great saint. This is a beautiful service which lasts about a half hour.

On Friday, October 6th, there will be a 24-hour prayer vigil before the Blessed Sacrament following the 8:00 AM Mass and concluding with the Saturday morning 8:00 AM Mass. Sign-up sheets for the prayer vigil can also be found in the gathering space of the Church.

On Sunday, October 8th, Blessing of Animals will be held at 3:00 PM in front of the Church.

We hope you can join us for any or all of these celebrations in honor of our patron saint!

Life Teen Mass Sundays at 5:30 PM Begins October 1st

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 12:44:00 GMT

The Life Teen Mass is coming to St. Francis of Assisi Parish on October 1st at 5:30 PM and will be celebrated every Sunday at the same time, except Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, and Easter Sunday. As a Eucharist-centered movement within the Roman Catholic Church, Life Teen leads teenagers and their families into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. With the Blessed Virgin Mary as our intercessor and guide, Life Teen seeks to unleash the fullness of the Sacramental power present within the young Church.

The Life Teen Band has been practicing for the past several weeks. Individuals who would like to offer their musical talents are invited to contact Louise Christ in the Parish Office at (413) 323-6272.

Click here for more information about the Life Teen movement.

Rachel's Vineyard Retreat November 3-5 in Stockbridge

Sat, 16 Sep 2017 13:45:00 GMT

A Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreat is an opportunity for any woman, man, couple, grandparent or sibling who struggles with the emotional or spiritual pain of abortion. This powerful experience allows the soul to speak its sorrow, as participants enter the grieving process, identify effects the abortion had and release deep feelings of anger, shame, and guilt that frequently accompany an abortion experience. This unique retreat process is designed specifically to help retreatants experience the gentleness, mercy, compassion, and the unconditional love of Jesus as they walk through the journey to forgiveness.

The next Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat will be held in Stockbridge, MA on the weekend of Nov. 3-5th . If you or a friend are hurting from an abortion experience, don’t delay; take the first step toward healing.

For more information or to register for a weekend call 413-452-0661 . You may also call Suzanne @ 203-417-0504 . All calls are confidential. You may also visit the Rachel's Vineyard website by clicking here.

Massachusetts Catholic Bishops Issue Statement Urging Action on DACA

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 15:24:00 GMT

The bishops of the four diocese of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts this week issued a statement urging the United States Congress to act to protect young people enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA), which was recently rescinded by the Administration of President Donald J. Trump.

The statement was issued by the Massachusetts Catholic Conference on behalf of Sean Cardinal O'Malley of Boston, Bishop Robert J. McManus of Worcester, Bishop Edgar Moreira da Cunha, S.D.V. of Fall River, and Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski of Springfield. The text of the statement follows:

Massachusetts Catholic Bishops urge Congress: Act on DACA

They are known as “Dreamers.” However, their dreams have fast become a nightmare. Last week President Trump terminated the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program established five years ago by the Obama Administration. The president’s decision puts at risk, for deportation, the lives of approximately 19,000 Massachusetts residents and another 780,000 individuals across the country. Each of these young individuals faces a traumatic and frightening future.

The DACA program has clearly been successful since its inception in 2012. It has given young undocumented children an opportunity to enjoy the freedoms of America that we, as a society, too often take for granted. They are able to thrive in the classroom, play in our parks, volunteer for the needy and ultimately grow and mature as young adults.

These children and young adults are innocent of any wrongdoing. They should not be punished for living in the United States of America. They have no other country to call home. They are our current students. They are our high school and college graduates. They are service workers and professionals. They are productive members of our society. In short, they are supporting themselves and their families and have become an integral part of the melting pot we call America.

Today, there remains hope that the protections provided by DACA can be saved. In apparent recognition of the chaos that the elimination of the program will cause, President Trump has given the United States Congress six months to pass a bill and work with his administration to ultimately codify many of the DACA protections into law. Congress cannot be silent on this issue. Congress must act now.

The American spirit is resilient and alive. Consider how many citizens, young and old, rich and poor, have come together recently in heroic efforts to aid millions of our fellow Americans in the southern states as they face the toll of dealing with catastrophic natural disasters.

In that same American spirit, we, the four Catholic Bishops of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, urge Congress to also come together to support the dreamers in their time of need, not to abandon them, resulting in irreparable harm to thousands of families. Members of Congress must put political differences aside and work on a bi-partisan effort to re-establish those protections for so many individuals thus renewing their American dream.

Funeral for Phyllis Wooton Saturday (9/9) at 10 AM

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 11:54:00 GMT

Our parishioner Phyllis Wooton, died on Sunday, September 3rd. We extend our prayerful condolences to her husband "Wally" and to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 9th at 10 AM, by our pastor, Fr. Jack Sheaffer, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will follow at West Cemetery in Shutesbury.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Phyllis' soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to West Cemetery in Shutesbury.

Bishop Mitch Encourages Donations to Catholic Charities USA for Hurricane Relief

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 12:33:00 GMT

From iObserve.org

Texas National Guard soldiers assist citizens Aug. 27 during rescue operations in flooded areas around Houston, Texas. (CNS photo/courtesy Texas Military Department via Reuters)

SPRINGFIELD – In response to the ongoing needs of those affected by Hurricane Harvey, Springfield Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski today issued a statement urging parishioners throughout the Springfield Diocese to send monetary donations to Catholic Charities USA, either online or through the diocese or parishes.

The full text of the bishop’s statement follows:

“This past weekend, the people on the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast region suffered tremendous devastation as a result of Hurricane Harvey. Even as I write this, the impact is still being felt through record torrential rain fall. The cleanup from this storm will take years and will be a tremendous challenge for many of the residents.

“As always, Catholic Charities USA stands ready to assist those whose lives have been adversely impacted, both in the short term and over the many years it will certainly take to realize full recovery.

“The Catholic community of western Massachusetts has always responded to these tragic situations with great generosity, and I hope we can be counted upon once again.

“To lend your support we’ve put a direct link to Catholic Charities USA, Hurricane Harvey relief efforts on our diocesan website, www.diospringfield.org . This is the best, fastest and most direct way to get help to this region.

“You may also donate through area Catholic parishes or our diocesan office, Diocese of Springfield/Hurricane Harvey, PO Box 1730, Springfield, MA 01102-1730; please make checks payable directly to Catholic Charities USA with Hurricane Harvey in the memo line. We will ensure all checks are forwarded to Catholic Charities USA.

“Most importantly, whether you are in a position to donate or not, please keep those impacted foremost in your thoughts and prayers.”

Emergency special collection

On the national level, Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, vice-president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has called on the bishops to consider taking up a special collection to support victims of Hurricane Harvey and to provide pastoral and rebuilding support to impacted dioceses.

In an Aug. 28 letter, Archbishop Gomez requested that the collection be held during the weekend of Sept. 1-2 or Sept. 8-9.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families that have lost loved ones and to all who have lost homes and businesses along with their sense of peace and normalcy,” said Archbishop Gomez. “We also stand with our brother bishops in the region who have the difficult task of providing pastoral care in these most trying times while managing their own losses. Our prayerful and financial support is urgently needed.”

“Together with Cardinal DiNardo and the bishops throughout the affected region, I express deep gratitude to the first responders and countless volunteers who are assisting the Gulf Coast region in countless ways,” Archbishop Gomez said.

This collection is to be taken on the weekend alternate to the CUA Collection.

Life Teen Coming to St. Francis of Assisi Parish

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 12:23:00 GMT

The Life Teen Mass is coming to St. Francis of Assisi Parish in mid to late September. As a Eucharist-centered movement within the Roman Catholic Church, Life Teen leads teenagers and their families into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. With the Blessed Virgin Mary as our intercessor and guide, Life Teen seeks to unleash the fullness of the Sacramental power present within the young Church. Masses will be celebrated on most Sundays at 5:30 PM. We will update you soon with the exact start date.

We are currently assembling the Life Teen Band. Individuals who would like to offer their musical talents are invited to contact Louise Christ in the Parish Office at (413) 323-6272.

Click here for more information about the Life Teen movement.

Holy Day of Obligation Tuesday, August 15th

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 11:49:00 GMT

On Tuesday, August 15, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary . This Solemnity celebrates our belief that, at the time of her death, our Blessed Mother was assumed, body and soul, into heaven. Masses for the holy day will be celebrated in the church on Monday at 6:30 PM, and on Tuesday at 7 AM and 12:10 PM.

Donations for Annual Giant Tag Sale begin on July 31st

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 13:24:00 GMT

St. Francis of Assisi's Annual Giant Tag Sale will take place on Saturday, August 26, from 8 AM until 2 PM. This is our major annual fundraiser. There are a number of ways that you can show your support. First, you can pray for all those who volunteer. This a lot of work and the volunteers need all the strength and help they can get! Second, you can volunteer to help; many hands make for quick work. Please call the Parish Office if you'd like to volunteer; workers are needed July 31 through to the date of the Tag Sale; however much time you can offer would be greatly appreciated. Third, you can donate items for the Tag Sale. Items may be dropped off at the Pine Room, Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 8 PM, and on Sundays, 9 AM to 5 PM, beginning on July 31 until August 21. Please do not drop off items before July 31. Finally, you can help by simply showing up at the Tag Sale and participating. That will show a lot of supporters for the organizers and workers and will be yet another way that we can come together as a parish family. Thank you, in advance, to all who work so hard to make our Annual Giant Tag Sale such a success, all while raising important revenue for our mission as a parish family.

Melissa Hurst to Attend National Convocation of Catholic Leaders

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 11:10:00 GMT

Bishop Rozanski has asked our own Melissa Hurst, Confirmation Coordinator and NCYC leader, along with several other Catholic leaders in our Diocese to join him in Florida next week for a national convocation of Catholic leaders. Also in the delegation will be Kathryn Buckley-Brawner, wife of Deacon Bill. Please click here to read the article on iObserve .org.

7th Annual K of C Golf Tournament September 17

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 10:52:00 GMT

Our Knights of Columbus Council will be sponsoring their 7th Annual Golf Tournament on Sunday, September 17, at the Cold Spring Country Club located at 336 Chauncey Walker Road (Rte. 21) in Belchertown. Click here for more information .

Funeral for Vivian Czupkiewicz Monday (6/19) at 10 AM

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:39:00 GMT

Our parishioner Vivian Czupkiewicz died on Monday, June 12th. We extend our prayerful condolences to her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, June 19th at 10 AM, by Fr. John Roach, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will take place at South Cemetery in Belchertown.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Vivian's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to South Cemetery.

Funeral for Pat Akins Friday (6/16) at 10 AM

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:15:00 GMT

Our parishioner and former parish secretary, Patricia "Pat" Akins, died on Monday, June 12th. We extend our prayerful condolences to her husband Ron and to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 16th at 10 AM, by our former parochial vicar, Fr. Pierz, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, located at 24 Jabish Street in Belchertown. The Rite of Committal will take place at Massachusetts Veterans' Cemetery in Agawam next week.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Pat's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for more information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

June 1 Will Mark 1st Anniversary of Fr. Vern's Passing

Fri, 26 May 2017 11:55:00 GMT

Thursday, June 1, will mark the first anniversary of the death of Fr. Vern Decoteau. His passing has caused an empty place in many of our hearts. Yet, in Christian joy, we will mark the anniversary of Fr. Vern's new life in heaven at a parish Mass on June 1st at 6:30 PM. The Mass will be preceded by an organ prelude, beginning at 6:00 PM. We will also dedicate the organ to the memory of Fr. Vern. We hope you can join us for this special celebration.

Report from Bishop Mitch's Parish Visit

Fri, 26 May 2017 10:13:00 GMT

Bishop Mitchell Rozanski is visiting all the parishes of the Diocese of Springfield to get to know the parishes better, to commend each parish for their efforts, and to make recommendations as the parishes move forward. On Thursday, April 20, Bishop Mitch and his Visitation Team made their pastoral visit to St. Francis of Assisi Parish.

Bishop Mitch and his secretary, Fr. Michael Wood, joined us for Daily Mass at 8:00 AM. Bishop then met with Fr. Jack and, later, with Deacon Bill. Other staff met with other members of Bishop's Visitation Team. Bishop had lunch and discussion with a number of active parishioners. Later he met with the Finance Council and took a tour of the parish facilities and grounds, along with the Diocesan Building Consultant. Finally, Bishop had supper and discussions with the Pastoral Council.

Click here to read Bishop Mitch's report, his commendations and recommendations for our parish.

Holy Week Schedule

Sat, 01 Apr 2017 14:28:00 GMT

Saturday, April 8: VIGIL, PALM SUNDAY
4:00 PM Mass

Sunday, April 9: PALM SUNDAY
Mass at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM
2:30 PM Parish Reconciliation

Monday, April 10
8:00 AM Mass
7:00 PM Chrism Mass
(St. Michael’s Cathedral, 260 State Street, Springfield)

Tuesday, April 11
8:00 AM Mass

Wednesday, April 12
8:00 AM Mass
No Confessions
6:00 PM Stations of the Cross
6:30 PM Mass

Thursday, April 13: HOLY THURSDAY
8:00 AM Morning Prayer
5:30 PM Potluck Supper (Pine Room)
7:00 PM Mass of the Lord’s Supper,
followed by Adoration in the Chapel until 10:00 PM

Friday, April 14: GOOD FRIDAY
8:00 AM Morning Prayer
12:00 PM Children’s Way of the Cross
3:00 PM & 7:00 PM Veneration of the Cross
with Communion

Saturday, April 15: HOLY SATURDAY
8:00 AM Morning Prayer
8:00 PM Easter Vigil Mass

Sunday, April 16: EASTER SUNDAY
Mass at 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, and 10:30 AM

Today's K of C Blood Drive Cancelled

Sat, 01 Apr 2017 09:53:00 GMT

The Blood Drive scheduled for today (Saturday, April 1) has been cancelled due to inclement weather. We will update you as to when it will be rescheduled one it has been planned.

Fr. Savage to Lead Parish Lenten Mission April 3-5

Sat, 25 Mar 2017 15:06:00 GMT

Lenten Mission, April 3-5, with Fr. Warren Savage

“ Spirit Filled Evangelizers: The Delightful, Comforting Joy of Evangelizing”

Pope Francis in his encyclical, Evangelii Gaudium , The Joy of the Gospel says: "Spirit-filled evangelizers means evangelizers fearlessly open to the working of the Holy Spirit." He says that a “spirit-filled evangelization is one guided by the Holy Spirit...the soul of the Church called to proclaim the Gospel.” This year's Lenten Mission will offer people from all walks of life an opportunity to reflect on and rediscover some of the spiritual motivations and reasons for evangelizing today.

Monday, April 3, 7:00 PM “Personal Encounter with the Saving Love of Jesus”

Tuesday, April 4, 7:00 PM “The Spiritual Savor of Being A People”

Wednesday, April 5
6:30 Stations of the Cross, 7:00 PM Mission including Mass: “The Mysterious Working Of The Risen Christ and His Spirit”

About Fr. Warren Savage

Fr. Warren J. Savage is the Catholic Chaplain at the Albert and Amelia Ferst Interfaith Center, Westfield State University; Lecturer, Religious Studies Department, Our Lady of the Elms College, Chicopee, MA; Instructor, Diocesan Permanent Diaconate Formation Program; Member of the Committee for the Continuing Education and Formation of Clergy, Spiritual Directors International, Academy of Homiletics, and The Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality.

Parish Website Service Scheduled

Fri, 03 Mar 2017 17:06:00 GMT

The company that provides the server for our parish website will be down tomorrow (Saturday, March 4) from about 2 PM until about 6 PM. For needed maintenance and security enhancements. It should be up and running by Saturday evening.

Bishop Rozanski, Chairman of Bishops’ Committee for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, Responds to Rise in Anti-Semitic Actions

Sat, 25 Feb 2017 12:58:00 GMT

Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski (Catholic Communications File Photo)

From iObserve.org National Staff Report

2017 Lenten Regulations

Sat, 25 Feb 2017 09:53:00 GMT

DIOCESE OF SPRINGFIELD

LENTEN REGULATIONS

Weekly Parish Life Spotlight: Take & Eat

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 17:48:00 GMT

This week's Parish Life Spotlight is our Take & Eat Ministry. The Take and Eat program began here at St. Francis at the beginning of 2011 when Deacon Frank Ryan and his wife, Kathleen, came to our parish and spoke of this program they started in the Berkshires. The program is designed to deliver a free, hot meal to homebound seniors in Belchertown on weekends and Monday holidays when Meals on Wheels is not offered. We began on Easter Sunday of 2011 and have delivered a home-cooked meal to our recipients each 2nd and 4th Sunday ever since. On average, we deliver at or around 45 meals each Take and Eat Sunday.

The program is run by volunteers and is funded entirely through donations. We have volunteers who grocery shop, bake, cook, pack and/or deliver meals. If you’d like to volunteer for our program or know of someone who would benefit from receiving these meals, please contact Michele Gousy at 323-7959.

Everything You Think You Know About St. Valentine Is (Probably) Wrong

Tue, 14 Feb 2017 12:17:00 GMT

Every year we get a couple of people who ask why we don't celebrate St. Valentine at Mass on February 14th. ChurchPop has an article on their website today that explains it for us.

The article first tells us that we actually remember three different martyrs named Valentine on this day. One was from Roma nd he was Martyred in the year 269. Another lived at about the same time in Terni and he was martyred in 273. The third one was actually martyred in Africa at an early point in the history of the Church.

St. Valentine was actually added to the liturgical calendar in 496 by Pope Galesius. It is not known which St. Valentine or if it was all three that were being honored. Incredibly, there are at least eleven other St. Valentines, but these are not remembered on February 14th.

There are a lot of other informative and fun facts that ChurchPop gives us in this article. Click here to read more.

WEATHER ALERT Monday's Daily Mass Canceled (2/13)

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 07:10:00 GMT

***WEATHER ALERT*** Belchertown schools have a two-hour delay today. Whenever Belchertown schools are closed or delayed due to weather, Daily Mass is canceled. The intention for the day will be rescheduled on the next convenient day.

9th Grade Retreat Postponed

Sun, 12 Feb 2017 07:55:00 GMT

Due to the winter weather expected Sunday afternoon through Monday, the 9th Grade Social Justice Retreat is being postponed. We will let the students know of the new date as soon as it is scheduled. Stay warm and safe today and tomorrow! For more information, please call the Parish Office at (413) 323-6272.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish Launches Parish App

Sat, 11 Feb 2017 10:29:00 GMT

St. Francis of Assisi is excited to announce the release of our own parish app. This new app is now available for parishioners to download on both Apple iPhones and Android phones.

We expect the features and capabilities of our new app to foster a stronger sense of community and faith in the daily lives of all parishioners. St. Francis of Assisi will be able to communicate quick and easy with all parishioners via messages and notifications to keep you in the loop with what is going on in our church. You will then be able to quickly reply to messages or RSVP for upcoming events.

Other features will include:
– the daily readings read at Mass,

– the Sunday homily,

– the weekly bulletin,
– the latest Catholic news from around the world,
– an easy-to-reference list of Catholic prayers with prayer requests,
– a helpful examination of conscience and next confession reminder,
– a reminder feature called “Mass Mode,” for Mass and confession. This includes phone-silencing notification to help encourage us all to be more present while at St. Francis of Assisi.
– and much, much more.

As you can see, this app offers a lot of capabilities for improving parish communication and serving as a faith building resource. It is well thought out and should become a real asset to complement our daily faith lives.

From your smart phone, visit www.myparishapp.com or use the convenient QR Code below.

Morning Mass Cancelled Today (2/9)

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 04:25:00 GMT

Belchertown schools will be closed today due to the storm. Therefore, our daily morning Mass will be cancelled. Our Mass intention for this morning's Mass would be for George Dion and it will be moved to another convenient date. Please pray for those who have to travel today as well as those who will be working to clear our roads.

Weekly Parish Life Spotlight: Michael Sweeney Prayer Line

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 06:54:00 GMT

This week's Parish Life Spotlight focuses on the Michael Sweeney Prayer Line. The Prayer Line was formed after parishioner Michael Sweeney was severely injured in a fiery accident. Michael asked that parishioners pray with him and for him. After Michael died, his request took on new meaning. Our Prayer Line then came into existence in a more formal way and was named in Michael's memory.

To request prayers for yourself or a loved one, or to take an active part in this ministry of intercession and thanksgiving, contact any one of the following coordinators: Louise Groux, (413) 323-4046 ; Gloria Cartelli, (413) 323-7400 ; or the Parish office at (413) 323-6272, pressing 1 during the prompt menu instructions. Submissions may also be made by completing and submitting our online Prayer Line Request Form .

Mass Cancelled for this Morning (2/7)

Tue, 07 Feb 2017 08:35:00 GMT

Just a friendly reminder that Daily Mass will be cancelled whenever the Belchertown Schools are closed or delayed due to weather. School has been cancelled today and, although it doesn't look like it's doing anything outside right now (7:35 AM), the radar maps indicate that a line of sleet and freezing rain is just about to enter the area. So, we will heed the warning because we don't know what the roads will be like in an hour or more when people would be getting out of Mass. Our Mass intention for this morning's Mass would be for Eileen Goodrow and it will be moved to another convenient date. Please pray for those who have to travel today.

Evangelization Commission Cold Weather Initiative

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 11:40:00 GMT

An Encounter with Christ

The St. Francis of Assisi Parish New Evangelization Commission is hoping that you’ll join us in a cold weather initiative. It will provide a little respite from the cold for His children on the street corners as well as the gift of grace that you’ll receive from the Lord for loving those less fortunate than ourselves. Think about it; hear Pope Francis’ words, “go out, go out and encounter Christ in others. Feed the hungry and clothe the naked!”

We can have this encounter whenever we are stopped at a crossroads for a red light. THERE HE IS! He is the one begging, holding the cardboard sign. You may, like most of us feel a little nervous, a little anxious, but don’t look away! What does Jesus say?

“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25: 40b )

You ask, “Lord, how do I feed the hungry and clothe the naked?” It’s easy. He will give you the grace to move beyond your anxiety. At your next encounter, with God’s Grace, roll down your window, hand him or her a gift and the two prayer cards provided by our commission. You’ll be taking care of one of his immediate needs and this request will elevate the beggar on the corner; elevate his human dignity! You’ll be asking the beggar for something in that encounter that only he/she can give. Their prayers!

Do you want to join us? Wonderful! Here’s how. First, you choose the gift. (See ideas below.) Along with your gift, you’ll hand him the two cards mentioned. One is a prayer card invoking the intercession of Mary, Our Blessed Mother. The other will be a request for him/her to pray for you (write your 1 ^st name on the card) and an invitation for them to join us at church. That’s it. God will do the rest!

Gift Ideas : a pair of socks, a pair of gloves, a warm scarf, a warm hat or a $5.00 gift card from McDonalds or Dunkin Donuts, an apple, orange or even a granola bar. These are just a few suggestions. You may have something else in mind; you decide.

We would love to hear from you. When you have such an encounter, please tell us about it! We will share your story in the bulletin, on our website and on Facebook. We all need inspiration. Please share yours with us. Send an email to: st.franbtown@gmail.com

Prayer cards are available in the gathering space. Please help yourself!

Bishop Rozanski Releases Letter in Response to Refugee Ban - UPDATED 2/1/17 11:08 AM

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 16:15:00 GMT

Springfield Bishop Mitchell T. Rozanski (iObserve File Photo/Rebecca Drake)

From iObserve : Regional News/Staff Report

Adoration Chapel Closed at 1 PM Today Due to Weather

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 14:21:00 GMT

President And Vice President Of The U.S. Conference Of Catholic Bishops Stand In Defense Of All Faiths

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 10:39:00 GMT

Vocations Commission Brunch February 19th

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 08:03:00 GMT

Feb. 19 ^th Sunday Brunch in the Pine Room for the Discernment of Gabrielle Engels to Religious Life

The Vocations Commission will host a Brunch on Sunday February 19 ^th after the 8:00 and 10:30 Masses in the Pine Room in the Parish Social Center on Park St. The proceeds from this event will assist Gabrielle Engel of our parish with her travel expenses associated with her discernment of the call to religious life as a Sister. Gabrielle’s family has made a contribution and it is our hope that this worthy fundraiser will allow her the additional finances needed for her to travel to her destination in Italy. Brunch will include: Baked Ham, Bacon, Eggs, Potatoes O’Brien, Belgian Waffles with Strawberries and Whipped Cream, Blueberry Muffins, Dessert, Coffee, Tea and Juice. 50/50 Raffle, please join us. Tickets will be sold in the church Gathering Space after all Masses from Jan 28 ^th until Feb. 12 ^th . Adults $15.00, 14 yrs and under $12.00, 6 yrs and under $ 8.00. Excess funds will go to parish NCYC Fund. For more information, contact Carla Dell'Olio at (413 687-8662 or chdellolio@gmail.com .

NCYC Gearing up for Trip to NCYC 2017 in Indianapolis

Sat, 28 Jan 2017 10:57:00 GMT

This coming November, members of St. Francis NCYC (National Catholic Youth Conference), along with Bishop Rozanski, Fr. Jack, and many other people from our Diocese and around the nation, will be traveling to Indianapolis for NCYC 2017. This is a powerful weekend experience of faith, prayer and community.

According to the NCYC website, The National Catholic Youth Conference is an exciting, biennial three-day experience of prayer, community and empowerment for Catholic teenagers and their adult chaperones. Teens and their group leaders enjoy speakers, workshops, live music, electrifying large sessions, an amazing closing liturgy, and exploring faith in a supportive environment. Perhaps best of all teens, are part of an enormous community of peers who love Jesus, who embrace their Catholic heritage and aren’t afraid to show it! Teens and youth leaders can together harness the experience and bring it back to their parishes. The thematic park is a unique venue incorporating traditional exhibits with interactive, educational and recreational activities. The theme for NCYC2017 is "Called."

We do a lot of fundraising for NCYC to enable as many teens as possible to experience this powerful weekend. We are grateful to all those who continue to support our teens through your prayer, words of encouragement, and participation in fundraisers.

For more information, contact Melissa Hurst at (413) 323-6272 or by email at stfrancisncyc@gmail.com .

Below are two videos about our teens' experiences at NCYC 2015. Enjoy!

New Parish Website Now Live

Thu, 26 Jan 2017 18:18:00 GMT

Our new parish website went live early this afternoon. We have been working hard to bring all the necessary information to our new site. We have a number of new features along with some of the old ones. Some of these include:

We will be adding a few new features in the next few weeks and will be sure to update everyone about them. Our Google Calendar needs a little immediate updating, which should be done in the next couple of days and there will be some tweaking of things as well.

We hope you will take some time to explore the new page and use its many features. One suggested use would be that if you have trouble sleeping, you could solve the problem by listening to the audio version of one of Fr. Jack’s homilies!

Enjoy and spread the word that our new website address is www.StFrancisBelchertown.com

Funeral for Doris "Sandy" Millen Monday (1/30) at 9 AM

Thu, 26 Jan 2017 15:41:00 GMT

Our parishioner Doris "Sandy" Millen died on Monday, January 23rd. We extend our prayerful condolences to her husband, Pete, to her children, Patrick and Debra, and to all of her family and friends. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 30th at 9 AM, by our pastor, Fr. Jack Sheaffer. The Rite of Committal will be celebrated after the Mass at 11 AM at Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery Chapel in Agawam.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May Sandy's soul and the souls of all the faithful departed forever rest in peace. Amen.

Click here for Sandy's obituary and other information from Beers & Story Funeral Home.

Click here for directions to St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Click here for directions to the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery.

New Parish Website Established January 25th

Wed, 25 Jan 2017 16:59:00 GMT

The journey towards St. Francis of Assisi Parish's new website begins today. The next several days will be filled with updating the new site and will go public in a few weeks. Our new website address is www.StFrancisBelchertown.com. Please update your browser if the old website has been saved on it. We look forward to the new look for our parish's presence on the web and we look forward, too, to our new parish app, which will be available by the end of February.