Dear Monsignor/Father, Please share the following in your bulletin if possible. Bishop McManus As you know from various news reports, the earthquakes which struck parts of Venezuela have caused a...
Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time “For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.” - MATTHEW 11:30 When we think of being good stewards, we may think that God is...
Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time “…whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.” MATTHEW 10:38 Pope Benedict XVI said “The world...
lease Cut & Paste items in your bulletin as appropriate to your parish. The Diocesan Dispatch is usually published on Monday mornings by 8 am via email. Submission must be received by the previous Friday for inclusion and should be at least 2 weeks before an event date in order to have an opportunity to be included in parish bulletins before your event. You can email submissions directly to [email protected].Have space available in your bulletin this week? Consider including one of the ongoing resources: Click HERE for ONGOING RESOURCES
For June 29, 2026
Stewardship Reflections for Bulletins
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
“For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.” - MATTHEW 11:30 When we think of being good stewards, we may think that God is asking too much of us when He calls us to generously share our time, talent and treasure. However, we must remember that we are not “owners” of anything, we are merely “stewards” of the gifts God has given us. All He is asking is that we give back a small portion, in gratitude, of what He has already given to us.
Decimocuarto Domingo del tiempo ordinario
“Porque Mi yugo es fácil y Mi carga ligera.” - Mateo 11:30 Cuando pensamos que debemos ser buenos administradores, podemos pensar que Dios está pidiendo demasiado de nosotros cuando nos llama generosamente a compartir nuestro tiempo, talento y tesoro. Sin embargo, debemos recordar que no somos “propietarios” de nada, somos simples “administradores” de los dones que Dios nos ha otorgado. Todo lo que Él nos pide es que, en gratitud, devolvamos una pequeña parte de lo que Él nos ha dado.
Vocations Reflections for Bulletins
Bulletin inserts in English and Spanish for vocations awareness. For weekly Vocations Intercessions, CLICK HERE for English (en espanol)
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
"Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) Christ invites each of us to lay down our burdens and find true peace in Him. In every vocation, priesthood, consecrated life, or holy matrimony, we are called to follow Him with trust, allowing His grace to strengthen us and renew our hearts. Take a moment today to listen to His call and rest in His loving presence. If you feel a stirring desire to follow God’s path, talk to your priest or reach out to the Vocation Office at (508) 630-4473 or via email: [email protected].
Decimocuarto Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario
"Vengan a mí todos los que están cansados y agobiados, y yo les daré descanso." (Mateo 11:28) Cristo nos invita a cada uno a dejar nuestras cargas y encontrar la verdadera paz en Él. En cada vocación, sacerdocio, vida consagrada o santo matrimonio, estamos llamados a seguirlo con confianza, permitiendo que su gracia nos fortalezca y renueve nuestros corazones. Tómense un momento hoy para escuchar su llamado y descansar en su amorosa presencia. Si sienten un deseo apremiante de seguir el camino de Dios, hablen con su sacerdote o contacten con la Oficina de Vocaciones al (508) 630-4473 o por correo electrónico: [email protected].
Dinner/Presentations on Humane Vitae Our Lady of Mercy Church, 341 June St., Worcester will mark the anniversary of Humanae Vitae with a dinner and presentations on Thursday, July 9 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the parish hall. Presentations will include “Humanae Vitae and Pope Paul VI’s Prophetic Wisdom” by Allison LeDoux, director of the Respect Life Office, Diocese of Worcester, and “Toward a Civilization of Love: Shaping a New Generation of Theology of the Body and FertilityCare Leaders” by TOB educator Adeline Khouri and Marise Frangie, director of Cedar of Lebanon FertilityCare Center. All are invited! Registration and downloadable flyer can be found at www.cedaroflebanonfcc.com/mission-of-peace.html.
Festival & BBQ in Otter River St. Martin’s Church In Otter River will hold its Summer Festival & Chicken BBQ on Saturday, July 18 from 10:00 am-2:00 pm at the Otter River Sportsman's Club, 250 Lord Road, Templeton. This event features theme basket, certificate and major prize raffles, along with adult and children's Chinese auctions; music; free activities for children; and, of course, a chicken dinner served from noon to 1 pm. Dinner tickets are $15 and can be reserved by calling 978-939-5588. Reservations are suggested, as a limited number of tickets will be available on July 18.
Volunteer Pianists Needed – Share Your Gift of Music Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester is seeking volunteer pianists to bring live music back to their atrium lobby. They are looking for individuals who would be willing to play for about an hour on a weekday. These informal performances will help create a calming, comforting, and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and staff. It’s a meaningful way to share your talent and brighten someone’s day! If you or someone you know may be interested, please contact Leslie Harper at [email protected] or call 508-370-2631.
PAST DISPATCH NOTICES
Biblical Beach Reads Annunciation Parish in Gardner invites you to join us this summer on Tuesday evenings, beginning July 7 at 6:30 pm for a series of one night bible studies led by Mrs. Maura Sweeney. We will be exploring some of the short Old Testament books including Ruth, Tobit, Judith, Esther and Jonah. Each book is less than 20 pages long and highlights the love, adventures and faith of its heroes and heroines. We will focus on just one book each night, so you are welcome to drop in as you are able. The upcoming week’s reading will be on www.annunciationgardner.org for those who don’t have their own bible. Class will be held in the Parish Center following the 6:00 pm Mass. Participants are welcome to bring a brown bag supper. Drinks and Desserts will be provided. We hope you will join us for this series which will be equally suited for those who would like to dip their toes into scripture or dive deeper.
Marriage Retreat in August Retrouvaille of New England has been helping Marriages since 1990. Don't wait to get the help you need to create the best possible marriage. Our next Retreat is August 6 - 8 in Tewksbury, MA. Call for more information at 508-271-7155.
Job Opportunities
Leader of Religious Education Saint Gabriel the Archangel Parish in Upton is seeking a faith-filled, organized and enthusiastic leader of Religious Education to coordinate our parish catechetical program serving 100+ students and families in grades one through high school. The leader will oversee all aspects of faith formation including curriculum development, sacramental preparation, and catechist recruitment. The ideal candidate for this part-time position would have some background in Religious Education, good communication skills, and a passion for working with families. For more information, contact Colette Rooney at [email protected] or by calling 508-603-1430.
School Business/Development Manager St. Aloysius Catholic School in Gilbertville, MA is seeking a dedicated Business Manager/Development Coordinator to join our administrative team. The ideal candidate will bring a passion for Catholic education and a strong desire to help our growing school thrive. Responsibilities include managing school finances, fostering donor relationships, and spearheading enrollment initiatives. Please send a letter of interest and resume to St. Aloysius Catholic School, c/o Roberta McQuaid, PO Box 522, Gilbertville, MA 01031 or email your information to [email protected]. A complete job description is also available upon request.
Organ recital in Clinton On Friday, June 19 at 7:30 pm, St. John the Evangelist in Clinton will be joined by six neighboring parishes in presenting an organ recital by Gavin Klein. A native of Bolton, Gavin is one of the rising stars in the organ world, having recently graduated from College of the Holy Cross after serving as the Organ Scholar for four years. In the fall, his journey will take him to the prestigious Yale School of Music for graduate studies in organ.
Family Event for the Year of St. Francis in So. Barre On Sunday, June 28 at 1:00 pm, St. Francis of Assisi Parish invites you to "The Great Forest Family Reunion", a Franciscan Centenary Family Pilgrimage for ages 4–14 and their Families. Chris Jeffcoat OFS & Angela Richardson OFS, along with the St. Joseph Franciscan Fraternity of Charlton will lead participants in experiencing creation with curiosity and wonder, and how to recognize creation as God’s family, while practicing noticing, questioning, and listening.
Summer Series on the Gospel of John Deacon Isaac Cross will present “The Gospel of John,” on Wednesdays, July 8, 22, and August 5 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm at St. Mary Parish, 77 Mendon St., Uxbridge. Come explore key passages in the Gospel of John, including the Wedding at Cana, Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman, and the piercing of Jesus' side on the Cross. The theme of water will be traced throughout the Gospel to discover its rich connection to grace, the Holy Spirit, and Christ as the Divine Bridegroom. This course will provide valuable insights into the spiritual and theological richness of John's Gospel. All are welcome!
Fine Arts Summer Workshop at Saint Paul Saint Paul Diocesan Jr/Sr High School will hold a Fine Arts 2026 Summer Workshop on July 6 - 9 and July 13 - 16 from 8:30 - 11:00 am. Choose from Studio Art, Music, Acting and Playwriting. Open to rising 6th - 10th graders. Cost: $300. For information email [email protected]. Young Adult Alpha program in Sturbridge St. Anne – St. Patrick Parish will hold a Young Adult Alpha program for those seeking to explore life’s biggest questions and the foundations of the Christian faith in a safe and welcoming space. Young adults 18 and 30 are invited to attend this no-cost program. It comprises three components: connection, content, and conversation. Participants share light refreshments, which helps to build friendships. After watching a short video, participants explore faith, God, and purpose. Small group discussions about the video prompt questions and sharing opinions in a non-judgmental environment. Young Adult Alpha will meet on June 22, 23, 29, 30 and July 7, 13, and 14 from 7 to 8:30 pm. All meetings take place in the Parish Center at St. Anne – St. Patrick Parish, 16 Church Street, Sturbridge. Light refreshments will be served. To register or for more information, contact [email protected].
Vacation Bible School in Leominster Holy Family of Nazareth Parish in Leominster will hold Vacation Bible School on July 27 - July 31 from 9:00 am - Noon for Pre K (potty trained) - Grade 5 children. The theme is "Shining a Light on Who Jesus Really is - ILLUMINATION STATION" To sign up, visit holyfamilyofnazareth.org/vacation-bible-school.
Special Religious Development SPRED (SPecial RELigious Development) has concluded the monthly meetings for the academic year 2025 - 2026 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Hall, 11 Day Street, Webster. They will commence again in October 2026. Please contact Linda at [email protected].
Mass with ASL interpreter St. Rose of Lima Parish in Northborough is offering a Mass with an ASL interpreter every fourth Sunday of the month at 10 am. Anyone in the deaf community is invited to attend.
Outdoor Masses return to Fiskdale Parish Beginning Saturday, May 23, Masses on Saturdays at 4:00 p.m. and Sundays at 10:00 a.m. and Noon will once again be celebrated at St. Anne - St. Patrick Parish, Fiskdale in their spacious, covered pavilion (rain or shine). The space offers a peaceful and uplifting worship experience surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors. The grounds at the shrine also offer many spaces for prayer and reflection and guests are invited to visit the Religious Gift Shop, open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. For more information, visit stannestpatrickparish.com or contact the parish office at 508-347-7338.
Pilgrimage to France, October 4-13 Join Fr. Juan Escudero on a special pilgrimage to France: a journey of faith, beauty, and gratitude! Together, we’ll visit Paris, Chartres, Lisieux, Colleville-sur-Mer, Mont-Saint-Michel, Orléans, and Versailles, discovering the treasures of our Catholic heritage and deepening our faith as a community. For a full itinerary or more information, visit www.SaintRoseofLima.com/parish-trip-to-france or contact Susan McGoldrick at 508.393.2413 ext. 5 or by email at [email protected]
Volunteer Opportunities with Ignatian Volunteers Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) New England, a yearlong volunteer opportunity for women and men 50 years of age and better, is seeking service corps members for the upcoming (September to June) year. IVC service corps members give one or two full days/week of service and commit to a monthly spiritual reflection program in the Jesuit tradition. IVC works with nonprofits in the area that address problems of homelessness, education, immigration and more. Get info and application by contacting regional director, Dave Hinchen at [email protected], or visit ivcusa.org/newengland. Cancer Support Rosary Group in Auburn The Cancer Support Rosary Group is a gentle and welcoming space for individuals living with cancer to come together in faith, fellowship, and hope. It provides a prayerful community where no one walks alone, and where faith can be a source of courage, healing, and light. Gatherings will be facilitated by Carlene Sherbourne, a parishioner of North American Martyrs who brings both personal experience and deep faith to this ministry. It will meet weekly beginning Wednesday, March 18 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. and will be offered in a hybrid format: virtually via Zoom and in person at North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn. Please contact Carlene at 774-696-4812 or [email protected] for more information about the group or to register.
BEWARE of Email Scams that appear to come from the parish All too often, email scams are appearing that use the pastor's name or a parish staff name asking for gift cards or donations of some sort. BE VIGILANT and delete these. If you look closely they often use an email address that appears to be very close to the real email address of the pastor or some staff person, but is not real. Know that our parish will only seek donations through normal, announced requests, not an individual email looking for donations to be personally sent to someone. When in doubt, DELETE. Don't even open them.
Divine Mercy Ministry to Seniors Volunteers are needed to spread Jesus’ message of Divine Mercy to seniors in local nursing homes and assisted living facilities. As a volunteer prayer group leader, you would lead a weekly 30-minute Divine Mercy prayer group using a simple prepared model of readings, prayers, and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. If you feel that the Lord is calling you to this ministry of mercy, please contact Mary Higgins (413) 552-7231 or email Mary at: [email protected].