Author: Dan Gallagher

Statement of the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera,
Bishop of Scranton, on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in
Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization

June 24, 2022

“One of the fundamental teachings of the Catholic Church is that all human life is sacred – from the moment of conception until natural death – and it must be respected and protected. In its opinion for Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, issued on Friday, June 24, 2022, I am thankful that the majority of Justices on the U.S. Supreme Court have recognized and upheld the sanctity of human life.

“For Catholics, respecting life, especially the unborn, is intrinsic to our identity as people of faith. While political and ideological divisions often drive us apart, we must remember that the Sacred Scriptures call us to be one, reverencing every life that comes into our world. It is critical to note, however, that valuing human life is not simply confined to life in the womb. We must never dismiss or ignore our responsibility to care for, protect and defend our brothers and sisters from other serious threats to human life, including poverty, racism and oppression.

“While already the largest private provider of social services in the United States, the Catholic Church must redouble its efforts and always stand ready to assist young women and couples who are facing unexpected or difficult pregnancies. Everyone in our Diocese and parishes should be familiar with ways to help mothers in difficult circumstances. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops recently launched its “Walking with Moms in Need” initiative to continue building relationships with community resources and make sure people in all parish communities know where to refer a pregnant woman in need.

“Our diocese is blessed to have many parishes filled with faithful people who regularly donate diapers, clothing, money and other resources to help expectant mothers each year. On the diocesan level, Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton provides educational, emotional and material support to expectant parents and operates Shepherd’s Maternity House in East Stroudsburg which provides housing, care and assistance for pregnant women and their newborn babies. Along with so many other community agencies and programs, including, but not limited to, Saint Joseph’s Center, Rachel’s Vineyard and the Pennsylvanians for Human Life, any mother needing assistance can receive life-affirming support.

“As we strive to build a true culture of life in our nation, the Gospel of Matthew reminds us that our welcome into God’s eternity will be determined by our willingness to reverence, respect and serve the most vulnerable among us in whom Christ is present: ‘Whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me’” (Matthew 18:5).

Franciscan Sisters Celebrate Jubilee
Jubilarian Served Scranton Diocese in Pastoral Care

Aston—On June 12 more than 150 members of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia and their companions gathered in Our Lady of Angels Chapel in Aston, Pennsylvania, to give witness to the lives and service of the congregation’s 2020, 2021, and 2022 jubilarians. Celebrating 70 and 50 years of religious profession, the 39 jubilarians represent an accumulated 2,450 years of service in 18 states and 38 dioceses, including Ireland, Antigua, and Puerto Rico.

Golden jubilarian Sister Kathleen Francis McCarron, OSF, previously ministered in Scranton, Pennsylvania, at Our Lady of Peace Residence from 2017 to 2021.

Balmy weather was the order of the day at Lords Valley Country Club as St. Patrick’s Church in Milford hosted its First Annual Deacon Cliff Golf Outing, named in memory of Cliff Jorgenson, businessman, banking executive  and Permanent Deacon at St. Patrick’s for several years. Mary Jorgenson, Deacon Cliff’s wife, was Honorary Chairperson of the event, with proceeds slated for refurbishment of children’s CCD classrooms at St. Patrick’s Hall.

Registration and continental breakfast were followed by golf on the beautiful course famous for its pristine links, gorgeous views and challenging play. A $10,000 Hole in One and other par 3 contests added to the excitement of the day.

The outing’s festivities were capped by an awards buffet at Jorgensons at the Dimmick, hosted by the Jorgenson family.

Major sponsors of the event included: DP Luhrs True Value Hardware, Phoenix Properties, LLC, Milford Hospitality Group, Econo-Pak, Belle Reve Senior Living, Brooklyn Boys Pork Store, Milford’s Daily Grind, Naked Bagel Co. and The Arlene Quirk Team.

The 2nd Annual Deacon Cliff Memorial Golf Outing is set for Monday, June 12th, 2023.

(ROARING BROOK TWP. – June 9, 2022) – St. Eulalia’s Parish, with the assistance of many parish volunteers, will celebrate its annual Summer Festival on Friday, July 15, and Saturday, July 16, from 5-10 p.m., on the picnic grounds of its parish campus, located at 214 Blue Shutters Road in Roaring Brook Township. The summer festival weekend, which also features a 5K Walk/Run on Saturday morning, is the parish’s largest fundraising initiative of the year.

“Our festival is truly a gathering of families, friends, and neighbors. People look forward to what we call our ‘festival favorites’ each year. We rely on the vital support and attendance of the broader community for our success each year,” said Reverend Jeffrey D. Tudgay, pastor.

The “festival favorites” include an array of homemade ethnic foods, such as pizza fritta, potato pancakes, haluski, pierogi, porchetta, and sausage and peppers, as well as traditional picnic fare like wimpies, burgers, hot dogs, and chicken fingers, as well as a beer pavilion. Additionally, the festival’s signature features include the parish flea market, known as Grandma’s Attic; Tricky Tray basket raffles; bake sale; and an arts & crafts boutique. The event also features kids’ games, face painting, pony rides; a 50/50 Summer Cash Raffle and small games of chance, including  a gaming wheel.

Entertainment is also planned, featuring the Electric City Steel Drum Project, led by retired North Pocono Band Director Frank Torquato, from 6-7 p.m. on Friday, July 15. In addition to performing their various musical selections, the group will hold a limbo contest for kids. Vito Picozzo of Dynamic Sound Productions will be providing sound for EC Steel and broadcasting a music playlist before and after their performance. On Saturday, July 16, the Schützengiggles Oompah Band, a brass band that blends traditional Bavarian folk music with pop hits from the last 50 years, will play from 6-9 p.m.

Tickets will be used instead of cash for food/beverages and children’s games. Food/beverage tickets are $5 per sheet, and children’s game tickets are $2 per sheet. Early ticket purchases are encouraged. Tickets are available at the parish office during the week as well as at the festival. Additionally, online basket raffle tickets are available for the Tricky Tray baskets and can be purchased via PayPal on the parish website. Cash will be accepted at bake sale, arts & crafts boutique, Grandma’s Attic, raffles, and the gaming wheel.

During the festival weekend, St. Eulalia’s is hosting its 12^th Annual 5K Walk/Run event through the Roaring Brook/Elmhurst area, rain or shine, at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 16. Those who would like to participate need to pre-register, as there is no same-day registration. For more information or to register, go to www.steulalia5k.com or facebook.com/StEulalia5K.

For more information about St. Eulalia’s Summer Festival and 5K Walk/Run, go to the parish website, sainteulalias.com, or the parish Facebook page, facebook.com/sainteulaliaparish.

More than 500 people filled the new Most Holy Trinity Church in Cresco for a Dedication Mass on Sunday, May 15, 2022. The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, served as principal celebrant and homilist.

The new church for Most Holy Trinity Parish is located in the former gymnasium/auditorium of the now-closed Monsignor McHugh School located on Route 390 in Paradise Township.

During his homily, Bishop Bambera noted that a Mass of Dedication for a new church does not take place often. In fact, the bishop noted it is only the second he has celebrated since becoming shepherd of the Diocese of Scranton.

Using the Scriptures, including the First Reading from the Book of Nehemiah, which is required for a church dedication Mass, Bishop Bambera spoke to the reality of the moment.

“Look at the journey that brought you from three distinct communities – Saint Mary of the Mount, Saint Ann and Saint Bernadette – and countless other parishes to this great day and this sacred space,” Bishop Bambera noted. “Many of you have said to me today and in recent months, ‘Finally, our dream of a church is realized.’ It has been realized and it is beautiful to behold, isn’t it? But, my brothers and sisters, this dream has become a reality only because from your earliest days as Most Holy Trinity Parish, you have first been committed to building CHURCH – not a building – but the people that God has called you to be!”

As he ended his homily, the bishop reminded all those present that their journey of faith is not over with the dedication of their new building.
“While we have much for which to be grateful this day, this church building will only shine forth as a vibrant sign of love and hope to all if you, who have given it life, continue to live your faith in service of the Gospel of Jesus,” the bishop challenged them.

Following his homily, the bishop prayed the ‘Prayer of Dedication.’ He also anointed and incensed the altar and walls of the church, preparing the building for the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Many of the items in the new church – including the pews, stained glass windows, presider’s chair, marble Stations of the Cross and more – were all taken from the old church buildings that closed.

CTV: Catholic Television was there to tape the opening Mass of the new Church and will air that liturgy on:

June 14th at 9:30 a.m.
June 15th at 8 p.m.
June 16th at 1:30 p.m.

SCRANTON — After nearly 40 years of Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) leadership service in the Diocese of Scranton, Robert “Bob” Valiante retired from his post as CCR Liaison and Coordinator in October 2021.

During a celebration at Queen of Apostles Parish in Avoca, Valiante was honored by Bishop Joseph C. Bambera, along with many priests from the diocese, all of whom expressed their deepest gratitude for his untiring efforts and dedication on behalf of the Scranton Charismatic movement.

Karen McLain, a long-time volunteer, has graciously accepted the challenging position and will continue to serve as Conference Coordinator.

A member of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish in Moscow and graduate of Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she received the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, McLain returned to her native roots in 1991 and became active in the Scranton CCR. She has served as a leader for the Burning Bush Prayer Group, coordinator of the Service Team, teacher and, for the past several years, coordinator of the Annual Scranton Charismatic Conference.

Following a varied professional career, McLain most recently served for 13 years as office manager for Holy Cross High School in Dunmore. She and her husband, Allan, reside in rural Madison Township in Lackawanna County.

“We are the Catholic Charismatic Renewal and we have been active in the Diocese of Scranton for more than 50 years,” McLain said. “We encourage people in their personal relationship with Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and we believe that the Holy Spirit is active and working in our lives every day!”

She further stated that, outside of the sacred liturgy, Charismatic Renewal events are marked with contemporary music and demonstrative worship.

“We sing, stand, clap, and raise our hands! We pray for healing, discernment, and any needs,” she explained, emphasizing that the movement works in partnership with diocesan offices, along with Catholic parishes and organizations, under the authority of the Bishop to “stir into flame” the graces of the Holy Spirit in people’s lives.

“Our Holy Fathers, from Pope John XXIII through our current Pope Francis, have all spoken of the important role the Renewal plays within the Church,” McLain noted.

One of the Scranton Charismatic Renewal’s most notable and defining characteristics is on grand display every year during the first weekend of August, when they welcome to The University of Scranton some 1,800 guests for the Annual Catholic Charismatic Conference.

Having been hosted by the Scranton CCR for four decades, the Charismatic Conference is one of the largest and longest running in the nation. This year’s conference will be held Aug. 5-7.

The Renewal also hosts many other events during the year, including Nights of Adoration, prayer breakfasts, weekly prayer meetings, Mass with prayers for healing, Life in the Spirit seminars, retreats, and Days of Renewal.

A Charismatic Pentecost Celebration will be held on Saturday, June 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Scranton’s Diocesan Pastoral Center (see accompanying ad on this page for details).

For more information about CCR, visit: www.ccrscranton.org or via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/CCRScrantonDiocese); call (570) 344-2214 or email: office@ccrscranton.org.

CRESCO (May 12, 2022) – After years of dreaming and planning, a Mass of Dedication for the new Most Holy Trinity Church in Cresco will be celebrated on Sunday, May 15, 2022, at 2 p.m.

The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, will serve as principal celebrant and homilist for the Dedication Mass. The Mass will be concelebrated by Father Brian J.W. Clarke, pastor, Most Holy Trinity Parish, and other priests from the Diocese of Scranton.

When a new church opens, it is dedicated to the Lord with a solemn rite, in accordance with the ancient custom of the Church. During the Dedication Mass at Most Holy Trinity, Bishop Bambera will pray the Prayer of Dedication and participate in the Anointing of the Altar and Walls of the Church.

The community is invited and welcome to attend the Dedication Mass. Everyone is invited to stay after Mass for refreshments in the narthex.

Most Holy Trinity Parish was created upon the consolidation of Saint Ann Parish, Tobyhanna; Saint Mary of the Mount Parish, Mount Pocono; and Saint Bernadette Parish, Canadensis.

The Dedication Mass will be the first time that many parishioners will have the opportunity to see the new worship space. Members of the media are welcome to attend the Mass of Dedication for interviews and/or photographs.

Mass of Dedication for Most Holy Trinity Parish, Cresco
Sunday, May 15, 2022 at 2 p.m.
212 State Route 390
Cresco, PA 18326