Every Sunday at 9:30am - Live Online Mass from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church!:
Watch Live on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/
Watch Live on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8k6IHvjPrEePEdofgoA6ng/
IHM in the News: https://www.nhpr.org/post/catholic-churches-nh-resume-communion-while-person-mass-still-prohibited
7th Sunday of Easter, May 24, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/938021733318037/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=st1vjbJOg_s
Ascension Thursday Mass, May 21, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
Part 1: https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/242292243690222/
Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zs1UDg9HLM0
Part 2: https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/272706397257827/
Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFNxhlXT4R0
Dear Parishioners! (May 20, 2020)
Bishop Peter Libasci is now allowing Communion at parishes in New Hampshire beginning this weekend, but no public Masses. The Bishop’s statement: https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-LtrFaithful-05.19.20.pdf
So beginning this Sunday May 24th, Holy Communion will be offered here at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church between 11:00-11:45am!
Online Mass will still be Sunday at 9:30am, and people should still attend the online Mass prior to receiving communion.
Please enter through the front main door, walk up the main aisle to receive, and exit through the front side door. The ramp door will be reserved for those who need it to enter and exit.
People should practice social distancing as they enter church and wear masks up until the time they receive communion. Fr. Ray will wear a mask as he distributes communion. Please do not try to enter the church until the doors are opened at 11am. Remain in your cars until you see the doors open so we do not have a group gathering around the door like a Black Friday sale! The doors will be left wide open so no one needs to touch the door handles. Bulletins will be available. A basket for offertory envelopes will also be available for those who would like to drop off their donations.
People should not sit or kneel in the pews until after 11:45. The church will remain open until 6pm. People who would like to stay and pray may do so outside in the Rosary Garden. The Adoration Chapel is still closed. Holy water fonts will remain empty. Hand sanitizer will be available.
Many people may still feel the need to be cautious and stay home, and that is very understandable. You may continue to make a spiritual communion at home. These directives have been issued by the Diocese as a first step as we continue to demonstrate both our love for the body of Christ in the Eucharist as well as in the body of humanity!
Talk with Ed: Want someone to talk to? Or have questions about faith? Our pastoral associate Ed Mullen is available to talk: Monday thru Thursday 12-3pm outside under a tent next to the Office. Free Matthew Kelly books are available under the tent too!
Talk with Fr. Ray: Fr. Ray is available to talk by appointment – just call the office 224-4393 x1 or email: frray3@gmail.com
To receive our IHM parish bulletin sent to your email weekly - Just click "Subscribe" (It's Free): https://www.parishesonline.com/find/immaculate-heart-of-mary-church-03301
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops invite you to gather in unity with Catholics from around the world to celebrate "Laudato Si Week", May 16-24. Go to: https://laudatosiweek.org/
In his 2015 Encyclical Letter "Laudato Si", Pope Francis taught that "everything is connected", so it is considered an important teaching for the times that we are living in.
To read "Laudato Si": http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html
A quick summary of "Laudato Si": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_lqFTYLc_4
May Crowning from May 11-12, 2019:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHPvmi2tpis
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/2216018768452980/
Message #5 from Fr. Ray (May 7th):
Dear IHM Parishioners!
It is now over 50 days since our last weekend Mass together at IHM on March 15th. During this time we have all been called to be Good Shepherds for the sake of the flock. We have all been called to make many adjustments and sacrifices for the sake of our brothers and sisters, especially the weakest and the most vulnerable in our community. We are discovering that the altar is not only to be found in a church, but is actually anywhere we have an opportunity to love and serve and sacrifice for another. That’s how Christ continues to become truly present on the altars of life.
In the past two weeks, we had several volunteers make 1000+ phone call to everyone in our parish! We thank our volunteers for doing this. It is great to stay connected! If you did not receive a phone call, that means we do not have your correct phone number! Please let us know by sending me an email with your phone number and we will make the correction: frray3@gmail.com
I hope you take time to get outside if possible and experience the beauty of Spring, not simply as something to observe, but as something that we are all invited to participate more fully in, where we experience goodness, beauty, and the pattern of life, death, and resurrection. St. Francis of Assisi referred to nature as the “1st Bible”, where we encounter the living God at the heart of everything that is. As Pope Francis reminds us: “Nothing in nature lives for itself, the rivers do not drink their own water, clouds do not swallow their own rain, the trees do not eat their own fruit, the sun does not shine on itself, and the flowers do not spread fragrance for themselves. We are all born to care for each other. No matter how difficult it is. Life is good when you are happy, but much better when others are happy because of you.”
And to all the moms out there: Happy Mother’s Day! Hope you will all join us for our Live Online Mass this Sunday at 9:30am with our Mother’s Day Blessing & May Crowning! If you have a statue or image of Mary, have it ready for your own family May Crowning!
Fr. Ray
Tips for Participating in an Online Mass: https://bustedhalo.com/ministry-resources/mass-on-tv-tips-for-transforming-the-couch-into-a-pew
Bishop Libasci's Latest Statement (May 2nd):
https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-LtrFaithful-05.02.20.pdf
Bishop Libasci's Op-Ed (May 3rd):
https://www.unionleader.com/opinion/op-eds/bishop-libasci-our-brothers-and-sisters-at-risk-are-not-anonymous/article_21e91da9-c66d-5cbb-a0b0-44329a0f30ff.html
Heart of the Heights Store is now open for limited hours, Monday-Friday 10am-1pm. We will allow 2 customers at a time and will observe social distancing guidelines. Appointments are also available by calling 228-3103 or emailing Kathy at kfrasier.ihm@gmail.com
For Catholic Young Adults (age 18-35) looking to stay connected to their faith and each other: https://www.jesusacrosstheborder.org/
Free take-out meals are being given out Monday to Friday from 4-5:30pm at our Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Center by the Concord Boys & Girls Club
St. John School Virtual Auction, May 12-18: https://stjohnregional.org/annual-auction/
Hi-Tops: During this quarantine, if you are looking for a fun & humorous comedy musical with a positive message for youth – check out:
Hi-Tops professional production: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbXoz054nyI
Fr. Ray’s youth group production: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3orcGXg9LQ
Free Online Theology of the Body Conference, May 8-10: https://www.tobvirtualconference.com/?r_done=1
For Catholic Young Adults (age 18-35) looking to stay connected to their faith and each other: https://www.jesusacrosstheborder.org/
Stay connected with your faith with Bishop Robert Barron’s “Word on Fire” Website: https://www.wordonfire.org/
Online Spiritual Reflections by Fr. Ron Rolheiser OMI: https://ronrolheiser.com/
Receive a free daily contemplative email reflection: https://cac.org/sign-up/
Sign up to receive free E-News from our Diocese: https://fo324.infusionsoft.app/app/form/enews2?cookieUUID=13c28683-3846-4532-afc2-9d289af7d6ee
How to Make the Most of the Easter Season - by Bishop Peter Libasci & our Diocese:
https://www.catholicnh.org/worship-and-sacraments/faith/liturgical-calendar/easter/
Pray & Sing the Divine Mercy Chaplet (recorded here at IHM):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfwQWQVo4Jw
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=412475132668397
For Middle School & High School Youth Every Sunday Night at 8pm!
https://projectym.com/watch/
To view previous weeks: https://projectym.com/live/replay/
Spring Clean-Up:
Anyone who might be looking to get out of the house is welcome to come by our parish and do yard work anytime! There's plenty of raking that could be done, plus caring for flower beds, etc., around the entire campus. Just show up anytime, bring your own equipment, and keep social distance from other who may also come by. Thanks!
Our Church is Open But the Adoration Chapel is Closed:
Our church is open for prayer Monday to Friday: 7am-6pm & Sunday: 11am-6pm
We ask that, if you kneel or sit while visiting, please leave the kneeler DOWN upon exiting the pew. This will act as an indicator to others of where not to sit, as well as help our staff efficiently disinfect all necessary areas for the safety of all who come to visit.
The Rosary Garden is also available for people to visit and pray anytime.
Offertory Envelopes: For those who are able to continue to support your parish, offertory envelopes can be mailed in to the office. They can also be dropped in the mail slot in the door on the left side of the office, next to the office mailbox. Thank you!
Online Giving: For those who would like to contribute to the parish online, instead of envelopes, go to this link: https://ihmnh.churchgiving.com/ Thank you!
Direct Deposit: Arrange to have your bank send a certain amount each week or month directly to the parish. Thank you!
6th Sunday of Easter Mass, May 17, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEWH9Ou-BZ4
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/587620685203380/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VShcwEVBS1M
5th Sunday of Easter Mass, May 10, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dX-ZPcHgv3A
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/918457161912007/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0xMUFXr8Vw
4th Sunday of Easter Mass, May 3, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_UjBn1hGnc
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/658755431358145/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAk1vS039MQ
3rd Sunday of Easter Mass, April 26, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6x5XPHfnIMg
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/913914402367401/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ui4muRbar9s
2nd Sunday of Easter Mass, April 19, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZTOO4yS7_g
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/222603938960425/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRk81U-vVh0
Easter Sunday Mass, April 12, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/2451991698445919/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrB4y5AS1uM
Fr. Ray's Easter Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSYp-Xdh9hw
Easter Vigil Mass, April 11, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/651789772032905/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RGYWteyCDE
Fr. Ray's Easter Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSYp-Xdh9hw
Good Friday Service, April 10, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/635073447044496/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RutFxErRnpg
Fr. Ray's Good Friday Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tumwbNu9KkY
Holy Thursday's Mass, April 9, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/614014225993564/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--puFXf9fGU
Fr. Ray's Holy Thursday Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW9JaQa_i34
Palm Sunday's Mass, April 5, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/2644978232400949/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULpYo2QCCuU
Fr. Ray's Palm Sunday Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_ePW7vHXGc
Sunday's Mass, 5th Sunday of Lent, March 29, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/1391347561056904/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkSOZRllSok (SOUND STARTS AT 3:45)
Sunday's Mass, 4th Sunday of Lent, March 22, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/664469757716980/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj3wB0qpbIU
Fr. Ray's "Palm Sundae!":
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUC9jDWVsUo
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=645774482873835
Charlie McGee's "Palm Sundae!":
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/657681845025484/
Email photos of you and your family participating in Mass online and we may post them! Also have children draw pictures of their family that we can attach to the pews! Mail them in or send them to: frray3@gmail.com
Pope Francis' Message to the World delivered April 3rd:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMJDCnmdhRg
Free Virtual Catholic Conference:
https://www.virtualcatholicconference.com/?r_done=1
Living Stations of the Cross
Relive the Passion Death & Resurrection of Jesus by viewing the Living Stations of the Cross performed here at IHM:
2016 Living Stations of the Cross:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/1061942223847260/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUnuFk8SOtY
2014 Living Stations of the Cross:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/1059066674134815/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvVtPPtkDaI
Bishop Peter Libasci 5-Minute Easter & Lenten Reflections:
Easter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJVo9JSZ3hc
Holy Week: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiJAdIAdIzk
Palm Sunday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NkMJVDtG00
Lent Week 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn8U7PVpe10
Lent Week 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKyYIyE-KTg
Lent Week 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Njcc9-YI_Ps
Lent Week 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fev6Qa9ZzOA
Lent Week 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5-7Dav9tQU
Ash Wednesday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCZz8q40GTg
Bishop Peter Libasci’s Easter Message:
https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-EasterMessage2020.pdf
Message #4 from Fr. Ray (April 17th):
Dear Parishioners
Happy & Blessed Easter Season!
Like for many of you, this was definitely the most unusual Holy Week that I've ever experienced. But Easter came just the same! Easter means that everything can be redeemed, recycled, and made something new out of, even Good Friday!
Lent is not just one day, and neither is Easter. Just like we need 40+ days to have a more complete experience of Lent, so do we similarly have 50 days of an Easter Season (between Easter Sunday and Pentecost) to both celebrate and to allow what took place on Easter Sunday to have its full impact in our lives. It is hard to believe that the scared, broken, overwhelmed people huddled behind locked doors on Easter Sunday were the same people who would become the transformed and courageous people we find filled with the Holy Spirit on Pentecost! We are hopeful of making that same journey, especially this year.
One of the things to be grateful for during this pandemic is the way so many people have stepped up to put the needs of others and the most vulnerable before their own. It’s amazing how the words of Jesus “Love one another as I have loved you” are being experienced by so many in need from the sacrificial service displayed by our Health Care Workers!
We are also gratified by how we are getting about 2000 views for each of our online parish Masses! And each of those views can include more than one person. On a normal weekend, we usually get about 650 people who attend Mass. (1138 attended on Christmas.). We are hoping that this online experience will draw and invite people to the fuller experience of the Good News as it is lived and celebrated here in person at IHM!
I know some of you are gathering in little online groups to share your experiences and your faith, and to support and connect with one another during this time. If you are someone who would like to be part of that kind of group, please let me know and we will see what we can do to foster those kind of connections among our parishioners.
Easter 2020:The very first Easter was not in a crowded worship space with singing and praising. On the very first Easter the disciples were locked in their house. It was dangerous for them to come out. They were afraid. They wanted to believe the good news they heard from the women, that Jesus had risen. But it seemed too good to be true. They were living in a time of such despair and such fear. If they left their homes heir lies and the lives of their loved ones might be at risk. Could a miracle really have happened? Could life really had won out over death? Could this time of terror and fear really be coming to an end?
Alone in their homes they dared to believe that hope was possible, that the long night was over and morning had broken, that God's love was the most powerful of all, even though it didn't seem quite real yet. Eventually, they were able to leave their homes, when the fear and danger had subsided, they went around celebrating and spreading the good news that Jesus was risen and love was the most powerful force on the earth.
This year, we might get to experience a taste of what that first Easter was like, still in our homes daring to believe that hope is on the horizon. Then after a while, when it is safe for all people, when it is the most loving choice, we will come out, gathering together, singing and shouting the good news that God brings life even out of death, that love always has the final say!
This year we might get the closes taste we have had yet to what that first Easter was like!
Message #3 from Fr. Ray (April 3rd):
Dear Parishioners
Holy Week is here - and do we need it now more than ever!
Many of us are confronted with a lot of uncertainty, changes in routines, worry, isolation, fear, anxiety, and restlessness, and the prospects of sickness, suffering and loss. This year we are perhaps in a position to be more open to drawing from the experiences of Jesus and his disciples. They experienced separation, anguish, abandonment, uncertainty . . . and a journey that seemed to dead end at the Cross of Calvary on Good Friday. From the depth of that dark place came forth something new and good and beautiful and life-giving – from the heart of God - which we celebrate as Resurrection and Easter. That journey is also meant to be our journey.
While many of us have been used to entering into Holy Week "through ritual" in our church, this year there is a way in which we are entering into Holy Week "through reality" in our families, in our communities, and in our world.
While there is a heaviness to our experiences, let us also not lose sight of the lightness and the beauty that is also beginning to blossom in nature - as the natural world emerges from winter - and in ourselves as we allow a new springtime of concern and compassion (“the creativity of love”, as Pope Francis put it) to blossom out of the winter of this pandemic!
Happy Palm Sunday & Happy Palm Sundae!
Weekly Mass Directive
Following the directives we have been given, the online Masses that are celebrated are restricted to only 10 people. Unfortunately the only people who are able to attend are those involved in the broadcast of the Mass - those who are filming, providing music, and serving in liturgical ministries. Thank you for your understanding.
“Normalcy” by Pope Francis
Tonight before falling asleep, think about when we will return to the street. When we hug again, when all the shopping together will seem like a party. Let’s think about when the coffees will return to the bar, the small talk, and the photos close to each other. We think about when it will be all a memory but normalcy will seem an unexpected and beautiful gift! We will love everything that has so far seemed futile to us. Every second will be precious. Swims at the sea, the sun until late, sunsets, toasts, laughter. We will go back to laughing together. Strength and courage. See you soon! #Papafrancesco
Message #2 from Fr. Ray (March 28th):
Dear Parishioners,
I still miss you and hope you are all making the best of this time! I know there are many who are experiencing difficulties, loneliness and worries - and I know many of you are willing to help anyone in need. So please let us know and we will do our best to provide assistance.
So as you gather in your homes, it is good to remember that there is another home and another family of which each of us is an important and valued member, and that is our church family. And while this is a time when we cannot go "to church", this is even more so a time when we are called to "be church".
While we are very blessed to have social media to stay connected, perhaps one of the lessons this pandemic will teach us is that being connected electronically also has its limitations, that we need and hunger for more than a virtual reality, internet connections, and facebook friends. It is amazing how many people are craving for a return to the normal, the ordinary, and the routine of daily life - something that we often complained about before or took for granted. Perhaps now we have better eyes to see how good and blessed life really is . . .
While it was very heartening that 1400 people tuned in to our Mass this past Sunday (more than double our average of 650 on a weekend!) we are looking forward in anticipation to the day when we can all gather and celebrate as one, live and in person! But until then:
Message #1 from Fr. Ray (March 21st):
Dear IHM Parishioners,
I miss you all! I am very sorry that we will not be able to be together at Mass or in any of the many other ways we normally interact as a parish for the foreseeable future . Obviously there's a lot of feelings of fear about catching the disease, anxiety about the future, worry about loss of job or income, isolation from friends, sadness over people struggling with the disease, concern for our healthcare workers . . . Like anything challenging, we can allow it to harden our hearts or to stretch our hearts, to become bitter or to become better. But we all need help with this. Psalm 46 is a beautiful prayer of trust to refer to during this time.
Like you, I am also hunkered down here at IHM doing my best to avoid social interactions to lessen the spread of the contagion, as the way we are being invited to sacrifice ourselves for one another for the greater good - to love the Christ that is in each and every person.
IHM is usually the parish that never sleeps, with lots of life and activities going on, so it's quite a shock to all of a sudden see so much quiet - with empty buildings and an empty parking lot, kind of like a ghost town. (This is certainly a challenging time for us to learn to "Be still and know that I am God".) Of course the church is not these buildings, it is all of us. And while we may not be able to gather around our weekly table for our Eucharistic meal, we can gather in spirit, like many families in our world do when a loved one is not able to be present physically.
Just to keep you informed of a few things here at IHM:
Anointing of the Sick for those in serious condition should contact Fr. Ray.
We will be available to return phone calls: 224-4393 or emails: recoffice@ihmnh.org (office) or frray3@gmail.com (Fr. Ray)
For those watching Mass online, I would encourage you to participate, not just watch: Sit, stand, kneel, do the responses, fall asleep during the homily, and even sing! There's no one except you, God, and your family that has to hear your voice! At communion time, make an act of spiritual communion. I have enclosed an attachment with a prayer. I have also included a reflection on "Loving and Receiving the Body of Christ".
Heart of the Heights Bookstore: Our Bookstore is Closed. It will open by appointment. If there's something you'd like, contact Kathy Frasier: 228-3103 or kfrasier.ihm@gmail.com
Cardinal Sean O'Malley's Online Lenten Retreat (6 sessions): https://www.bostoncatholic.org/virtualretreat
Me Celebrating Winter Carnival by Myself! Join me for a Virtual Snowmobile Ride Around IHM: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1yjE4_p6cA
Praying: We strongly encourage people to stay at home and pray. For those who have been coming to the Adoration Chapel or the Church, we recommend staying at home and praying in your home instead!
Reading:
For those who asked about looking for something spiritually edifying to read during this time, I would encourage people to consider: "The Way of Imperfection" by Andre Daigneault.
This book is recommended by Cardinal Gerald Lacroix of Quebec (originally from Manchester NH) He wrote the forward to the book.
It can be purchased and read on kindle for $6.99: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BHQTVD1
Hard copy: https://www.amazon.com/Way-Imperfection-Holiness-Poor/dp/1933314516
To stay in touch with the Bishop & Diocese of Manchester:
Website: https://www.catholicnh.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dioceseofmanchester/
Daily Online Masses:
Bishop Robert Barron: https://www.wordonfire.org/daily-mass/
Boston: http://www.catholictv.org/masses/catholictv-mass
EWTN: channel 56 (schedule: https://www.ewtn.com/tv/weekly-grid)
Catholic Radio Mass: . Every day at 8am on 102.7FM WICX or listen online: http://www.wicxradio.org/listen-live .
Email photos of what you're doing, and we might be able to make a collage of parish photos we can post!
Any questions or concerns or needs, do not hesitate to contact me.
Remember: while a lot of things are closed, the outdoors is still open, laughter is still open, reading is still open, music is still open, faith is still open, hope is still open, love is still open, family is still open, life is still open, and God is still open . . . so let us remain open as well!
The poem/prayer "Pandemic"
What if you thought of it
as the Jews consider the Sabbath--
the most sacred of times?
Cease from travel.
Cease from buying and selling.
Give up, just for now,
on trying to make the world
different than it is.
Sing. Pray. Touch only those
to whom you commit your life.
Center down.
And when your body has become still,
reach out with your heart.
Know that we are connected
in ways that are terrifying and beautiful.
(You could hardly deny it now.)
Know that our lives
are in one another’s hands.
(Surely, that has come clear.)
Do not reach out your hands.
Reach out your heart.
Reach out your words.
Reach out all the tendrils
of compassion that move, invisibly,
where we cannot touch.
Promise this world your love--
for better or for worse,
in sickness and in health,
so long as we all shall live.
That's about it for now, so let's stay in touch!
Blessings,
Fr. Ray
FrRay3@gmail.com
224-4393 x1
Mass is Suspended in the Diocese of Manchester: In response to directives given by the President, the Center for Disease Control, and the Governor, to limit groupings to no more than 10 people, our Bishop Peter Libasci has declared that, effective immediately and until further notice, there will be no Masses available for the general public to attend in the Diocese of Manchester. The obligation to attend Mass is dispensed. This includes other church gatherings as well, such as Stations of the Cross and classes.
Priests will continue to celebrate Masses in private for the intentions of the people.
This is the way we are being called this Lent to put other people first, to hunger more deeply for Christ, to love our neighbor, to serve Christ in our brothers and sisters in the wider community, to live in solidarity with the sick, and to live in solidarity with many around the world who do not have frequent access to the Sacraments.
Sometimes we choose things to do or give up for Lent, and sometimes Lent chooses things for us . . . to stretch our hearts and to grow in love.
Loving and Receiving the Body of Christ by Fr. Ray Ball (March 19, 2020)
In the New Testament there are two Greek words used to refer to body, “soma” and “sarx”.
"Soma" refers to a body of a person insofar as it is good, healthy, and virtuous – for example the body of Jesus as it rose in glory from the dead.
"Sarx" refers to a body or flesh of a person pejoratively or negatively, or in an unfavorable way, insofar as the person gets sick, smells, sins, corrupts, decays, and dies.
Amazingly and scandalously, in the Gospel of John chapter 6, Jesus uses the term “sarx” not “soma” to refer to us eating his "body" or "flesh". It’s obvious that he is not simply referring to us receiving, becoming one with, embracing, and loving his perfect, resurrected, glorified body in heaven – or he would have used the term “soma”. By using the term “sarx” he must be referring to more than himself. By using the word “sarx” he must mean that we are also receiving, becoming one with, having compassion for, embracing, forgiving, being patient with, and loving the imperfect, sick, broken, wounded, sinful, suffering body and flesh of humanity that he is intimately one with – “the least of his brothers and sisters . . . the hungry, the thirsty, the homeless, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned” (Matthew 25). This is the body that Jesus loves, serves, identifies with, ate with, gave his life for, and wants us to love, serve, identify with, be in communion with, and give our lives to as well. This is the same reason Jesus washed feet at the Last Supper account in John 13, intimately connecting receiving the body of Christ with lovingly touching and washing the dirty, smelly parts of humanity. This can be challenging to us, which is the reason why so many of his believers walked away at that time (John 6:66) and why many of us may also be struggling at this time.
We cannot simply love Jesus in his glorified perfection in the Eucharist without at the same time loving him in his imperfect and annoying body of humanity in the world. It’s a whole package that cannot be separated. That’s the heart of the Christian message of Incarnation. This is why attempting to receive Jesus in the Eucharist at the risk of exposing others to this virus would totally contradict the love we are to have for Jesus who is to be loved “in the least of his brothers and sisters”. While we may not be receiving Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist at this time, this is the way we can receive and love Jesus in his "sarx" – through prayer and physical social distancing - at this place and during this time.
Blessed Lent & Blessed Way of the Cross!
Fr. Ray
Bishop Peter Libasci’s Easter Message:
https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-EasterMessage2020.pdf
Watch Live on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/
Watch Live on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8k6IHvjPrEePEdofgoA6ng/
IHM in the News: https://www.nhpr.org/post/catholic-churches-nh-resume-communion-while-person-mass-still-prohibited
7th Sunday of Easter, May 24, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/938021733318037/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=st1vjbJOg_s
Ascension Thursday Mass, May 21, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
Part 1: https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/242292243690222/
Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zs1UDg9HLM0
Part 2: https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/272706397257827/
Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFNxhlXT4R0
Dear Parishioners! (May 20, 2020)
Bishop Peter Libasci is now allowing Communion at parishes in New Hampshire beginning this weekend, but no public Masses. The Bishop’s statement: https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-LtrFaithful-05.19.20.pdf
So beginning this Sunday May 24th, Holy Communion will be offered here at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church between 11:00-11:45am!
Online Mass will still be Sunday at 9:30am, and people should still attend the online Mass prior to receiving communion.
Please enter through the front main door, walk up the main aisle to receive, and exit through the front side door. The ramp door will be reserved for those who need it to enter and exit.
People should practice social distancing as they enter church and wear masks up until the time they receive communion. Fr. Ray will wear a mask as he distributes communion. Please do not try to enter the church until the doors are opened at 11am. Remain in your cars until you see the doors open so we do not have a group gathering around the door like a Black Friday sale! The doors will be left wide open so no one needs to touch the door handles. Bulletins will be available. A basket for offertory envelopes will also be available for those who would like to drop off their donations.
People should not sit or kneel in the pews until after 11:45. The church will remain open until 6pm. People who would like to stay and pray may do so outside in the Rosary Garden. The Adoration Chapel is still closed. Holy water fonts will remain empty. Hand sanitizer will be available.
Many people may still feel the need to be cautious and stay home, and that is very understandable. You may continue to make a spiritual communion at home. These directives have been issued by the Diocese as a first step as we continue to demonstrate both our love for the body of Christ in the Eucharist as well as in the body of humanity!
Talk with Ed: Want someone to talk to? Or have questions about faith? Our pastoral associate Ed Mullen is available to talk: Monday thru Thursday 12-3pm outside under a tent next to the Office. Free Matthew Kelly books are available under the tent too!
Talk with Fr. Ray: Fr. Ray is available to talk by appointment – just call the office 224-4393 x1 or email: frray3@gmail.com
To receive our IHM parish bulletin sent to your email weekly - Just click "Subscribe" (It's Free): https://www.parishesonline.com/find/immaculate-heart-of-mary-church-03301
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops invite you to gather in unity with Catholics from around the world to celebrate "Laudato Si Week", May 16-24. Go to: https://laudatosiweek.org/
In his 2015 Encyclical Letter "Laudato Si", Pope Francis taught that "everything is connected", so it is considered an important teaching for the times that we are living in.
To read "Laudato Si": http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html
A quick summary of "Laudato Si": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_lqFTYLc_4
May Crowning from May 11-12, 2019:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHPvmi2tpis
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/2216018768452980/
Message #5 from Fr. Ray (May 7th):
Dear IHM Parishioners!
It is now over 50 days since our last weekend Mass together at IHM on March 15th. During this time we have all been called to be Good Shepherds for the sake of the flock. We have all been called to make many adjustments and sacrifices for the sake of our brothers and sisters, especially the weakest and the most vulnerable in our community. We are discovering that the altar is not only to be found in a church, but is actually anywhere we have an opportunity to love and serve and sacrifice for another. That’s how Christ continues to become truly present on the altars of life.
In the past two weeks, we had several volunteers make 1000+ phone call to everyone in our parish! We thank our volunteers for doing this. It is great to stay connected! If you did not receive a phone call, that means we do not have your correct phone number! Please let us know by sending me an email with your phone number and we will make the correction: frray3@gmail.com
I hope you take time to get outside if possible and experience the beauty of Spring, not simply as something to observe, but as something that we are all invited to participate more fully in, where we experience goodness, beauty, and the pattern of life, death, and resurrection. St. Francis of Assisi referred to nature as the “1st Bible”, where we encounter the living God at the heart of everything that is. As Pope Francis reminds us: “Nothing in nature lives for itself, the rivers do not drink their own water, clouds do not swallow their own rain, the trees do not eat their own fruit, the sun does not shine on itself, and the flowers do not spread fragrance for themselves. We are all born to care for each other. No matter how difficult it is. Life is good when you are happy, but much better when others are happy because of you.”
And to all the moms out there: Happy Mother’s Day! Hope you will all join us for our Live Online Mass this Sunday at 9:30am with our Mother’s Day Blessing & May Crowning! If you have a statue or image of Mary, have it ready for your own family May Crowning!
Fr. Ray
Tips for Participating in an Online Mass: https://bustedhalo.com/ministry-resources/mass-on-tv-tips-for-transforming-the-couch-into-a-pew
Bishop Libasci's Latest Statement (May 2nd):
https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-LtrFaithful-05.02.20.pdf
Bishop Libasci's Op-Ed (May 3rd):
https://www.unionleader.com/opinion/op-eds/bishop-libasci-our-brothers-and-sisters-at-risk-are-not-anonymous/article_21e91da9-c66d-5cbb-a0b0-44329a0f30ff.html
Heart of the Heights Store is now open for limited hours, Monday-Friday 10am-1pm. We will allow 2 customers at a time and will observe social distancing guidelines. Appointments are also available by calling 228-3103 or emailing Kathy at kfrasier.ihm@gmail.com
For Catholic Young Adults (age 18-35) looking to stay connected to their faith and each other: https://www.jesusacrosstheborder.org/
Free take-out meals are being given out Monday to Friday from 4-5:30pm at our Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Center by the Concord Boys & Girls Club
St. John School Virtual Auction, May 12-18: https://stjohnregional.org/annual-auction/
Hi-Tops: During this quarantine, if you are looking for a fun & humorous comedy musical with a positive message for youth – check out:
Hi-Tops professional production: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbXoz054nyI
Fr. Ray’s youth group production: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3orcGXg9LQ
Free Online Theology of the Body Conference, May 8-10: https://www.tobvirtualconference.com/?r_done=1
For Catholic Young Adults (age 18-35) looking to stay connected to their faith and each other: https://www.jesusacrosstheborder.org/
Stay connected with your faith with Bishop Robert Barron’s “Word on Fire” Website: https://www.wordonfire.org/
Online Spiritual Reflections by Fr. Ron Rolheiser OMI: https://ronrolheiser.com/
Receive a free daily contemplative email reflection: https://cac.org/sign-up/
Sign up to receive free E-News from our Diocese: https://fo324.infusionsoft.app/app/form/enews2?cookieUUID=13c28683-3846-4532-afc2-9d289af7d6ee
How to Make the Most of the Easter Season - by Bishop Peter Libasci & our Diocese:
https://www.catholicnh.org/worship-and-sacraments/faith/liturgical-calendar/easter/
Pray & Sing the Divine Mercy Chaplet (recorded here at IHM):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfwQWQVo4Jw
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=412475132668397
For Middle School & High School Youth Every Sunday Night at 8pm!
https://projectym.com/watch/
To view previous weeks: https://projectym.com/live/replay/
Spring Clean-Up:
Anyone who might be looking to get out of the house is welcome to come by our parish and do yard work anytime! There's plenty of raking that could be done, plus caring for flower beds, etc., around the entire campus. Just show up anytime, bring your own equipment, and keep social distance from other who may also come by. Thanks!
Our Church is Open But the Adoration Chapel is Closed:
Our church is open for prayer Monday to Friday: 7am-6pm & Sunday: 11am-6pm
We ask that, if you kneel or sit while visiting, please leave the kneeler DOWN upon exiting the pew. This will act as an indicator to others of where not to sit, as well as help our staff efficiently disinfect all necessary areas for the safety of all who come to visit.
The Rosary Garden is also available for people to visit and pray anytime.
Offertory Envelopes: For those who are able to continue to support your parish, offertory envelopes can be mailed in to the office. They can also be dropped in the mail slot in the door on the left side of the office, next to the office mailbox. Thank you!
Online Giving: For those who would like to contribute to the parish online, instead of envelopes, go to this link: https://ihmnh.churchgiving.com/ Thank you!
Direct Deposit: Arrange to have your bank send a certain amount each week or month directly to the parish. Thank you!
6th Sunday of Easter Mass, May 17, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEWH9Ou-BZ4
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/587620685203380/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VShcwEVBS1M
5th Sunday of Easter Mass, May 10, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dX-ZPcHgv3A
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/918457161912007/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0xMUFXr8Vw
4th Sunday of Easter Mass, May 3, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_UjBn1hGnc
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/658755431358145/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAk1vS039MQ
3rd Sunday of Easter Mass, April 26, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6x5XPHfnIMg
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/913914402367401/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ui4muRbar9s
2nd Sunday of Easter Mass, April 19, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZTOO4yS7_g
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/222603938960425/
Fr. Ray's Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRk81U-vVh0
Easter Sunday Mass, April 12, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/2451991698445919/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrB4y5AS1uM
Fr. Ray's Easter Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSYp-Xdh9hw
Easter Vigil Mass, April 11, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/651789772032905/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RGYWteyCDE
Fr. Ray's Easter Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSYp-Xdh9hw
Good Friday Service, April 10, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/635073447044496/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RutFxErRnpg
Fr. Ray's Good Friday Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tumwbNu9KkY
Holy Thursday's Mass, April 9, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/614014225993564/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--puFXf9fGU
Fr. Ray's Holy Thursday Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW9JaQa_i34
Palm Sunday's Mass, April 5, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/2644978232400949/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULpYo2QCCuU
Fr. Ray's Palm Sunday Homily:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_ePW7vHXGc
Sunday's Mass, 5th Sunday of Lent, March 29, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/1391347561056904/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkSOZRllSok (SOUND STARTS AT 3:45)
Sunday's Mass, 4th Sunday of Lent, March 22, 2020 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/664469757716980/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj3wB0qpbIU
Fr. Ray's "Palm Sundae!":
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUC9jDWVsUo
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=645774482873835
Charlie McGee's "Palm Sundae!":
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/657681845025484/
Email photos of you and your family participating in Mass online and we may post them! Also have children draw pictures of their family that we can attach to the pews! Mail them in or send them to: frray3@gmail.com
Pope Francis' Message to the World delivered April 3rd:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMJDCnmdhRg
Free Virtual Catholic Conference:
https://www.virtualcatholicconference.com/?r_done=1
Living Stations of the Cross
Relive the Passion Death & Resurrection of Jesus by viewing the Living Stations of the Cross performed here at IHM:
2016 Living Stations of the Cross:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/1061942223847260/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUnuFk8SOtY
2014 Living Stations of the Cross:
https://www.facebook.com/ihmnh/videos/1059066674134815/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvVtPPtkDaI
Bishop Peter Libasci 5-Minute Easter & Lenten Reflections:
Easter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJVo9JSZ3hc
Holy Week: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiJAdIAdIzk
Palm Sunday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NkMJVDtG00
Lent Week 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn8U7PVpe10
Lent Week 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKyYIyE-KTg
Lent Week 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Njcc9-YI_Ps
Lent Week 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fev6Qa9ZzOA
Lent Week 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5-7Dav9tQU
Ash Wednesday: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCZz8q40GTg
Bishop Peter Libasci’s Easter Message:
https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-EasterMessage2020.pdf
Message #4 from Fr. Ray (April 17th):
Dear Parishioners
Happy & Blessed Easter Season!
Like for many of you, this was definitely the most unusual Holy Week that I've ever experienced. But Easter came just the same! Easter means that everything can be redeemed, recycled, and made something new out of, even Good Friday!
Lent is not just one day, and neither is Easter. Just like we need 40+ days to have a more complete experience of Lent, so do we similarly have 50 days of an Easter Season (between Easter Sunday and Pentecost) to both celebrate and to allow what took place on Easter Sunday to have its full impact in our lives. It is hard to believe that the scared, broken, overwhelmed people huddled behind locked doors on Easter Sunday were the same people who would become the transformed and courageous people we find filled with the Holy Spirit on Pentecost! We are hopeful of making that same journey, especially this year.
One of the things to be grateful for during this pandemic is the way so many people have stepped up to put the needs of others and the most vulnerable before their own. It’s amazing how the words of Jesus “Love one another as I have loved you” are being experienced by so many in need from the sacrificial service displayed by our Health Care Workers!
We are also gratified by how we are getting about 2000 views for each of our online parish Masses! And each of those views can include more than one person. On a normal weekend, we usually get about 650 people who attend Mass. (1138 attended on Christmas.). We are hoping that this online experience will draw and invite people to the fuller experience of the Good News as it is lived and celebrated here in person at IHM!
I know some of you are gathering in little online groups to share your experiences and your faith, and to support and connect with one another during this time. If you are someone who would like to be part of that kind of group, please let me know and we will see what we can do to foster those kind of connections among our parishioners.
Easter 2020:The very first Easter was not in a crowded worship space with singing and praising. On the very first Easter the disciples were locked in their house. It was dangerous for them to come out. They were afraid. They wanted to believe the good news they heard from the women, that Jesus had risen. But it seemed too good to be true. They were living in a time of such despair and such fear. If they left their homes heir lies and the lives of their loved ones might be at risk. Could a miracle really have happened? Could life really had won out over death? Could this time of terror and fear really be coming to an end?
Alone in their homes they dared to believe that hope was possible, that the long night was over and morning had broken, that God's love was the most powerful of all, even though it didn't seem quite real yet. Eventually, they were able to leave their homes, when the fear and danger had subsided, they went around celebrating and spreading the good news that Jesus was risen and love was the most powerful force on the earth.
This year, we might get to experience a taste of what that first Easter was like, still in our homes daring to believe that hope is on the horizon. Then after a while, when it is safe for all people, when it is the most loving choice, we will come out, gathering together, singing and shouting the good news that God brings life even out of death, that love always has the final say!
This year we might get the closes taste we have had yet to what that first Easter was like!
Message #3 from Fr. Ray (April 3rd):
Dear Parishioners
Holy Week is here - and do we need it now more than ever!
Many of us are confronted with a lot of uncertainty, changes in routines, worry, isolation, fear, anxiety, and restlessness, and the prospects of sickness, suffering and loss. This year we are perhaps in a position to be more open to drawing from the experiences of Jesus and his disciples. They experienced separation, anguish, abandonment, uncertainty . . . and a journey that seemed to dead end at the Cross of Calvary on Good Friday. From the depth of that dark place came forth something new and good and beautiful and life-giving – from the heart of God - which we celebrate as Resurrection and Easter. That journey is also meant to be our journey.
While many of us have been used to entering into Holy Week "through ritual" in our church, this year there is a way in which we are entering into Holy Week "through reality" in our families, in our communities, and in our world.
While there is a heaviness to our experiences, let us also not lose sight of the lightness and the beauty that is also beginning to blossom in nature - as the natural world emerges from winter - and in ourselves as we allow a new springtime of concern and compassion (“the creativity of love”, as Pope Francis put it) to blossom out of the winter of this pandemic!
Happy Palm Sunday & Happy Palm Sundae!
Weekly Mass Directive
Following the directives we have been given, the online Masses that are celebrated are restricted to only 10 people. Unfortunately the only people who are able to attend are those involved in the broadcast of the Mass - those who are filming, providing music, and serving in liturgical ministries. Thank you for your understanding.
“Normalcy” by Pope Francis
Tonight before falling asleep, think about when we will return to the street. When we hug again, when all the shopping together will seem like a party. Let’s think about when the coffees will return to the bar, the small talk, and the photos close to each other. We think about when it will be all a memory but normalcy will seem an unexpected and beautiful gift! We will love everything that has so far seemed futile to us. Every second will be precious. Swims at the sea, the sun until late, sunsets, toasts, laughter. We will go back to laughing together. Strength and courage. See you soon! #Papafrancesco
Message #2 from Fr. Ray (March 28th):
Dear Parishioners,
I still miss you and hope you are all making the best of this time! I know there are many who are experiencing difficulties, loneliness and worries - and I know many of you are willing to help anyone in need. So please let us know and we will do our best to provide assistance.
So as you gather in your homes, it is good to remember that there is another home and another family of which each of us is an important and valued member, and that is our church family. And while this is a time when we cannot go "to church", this is even more so a time when we are called to "be church".
While we are very blessed to have social media to stay connected, perhaps one of the lessons this pandemic will teach us is that being connected electronically also has its limitations, that we need and hunger for more than a virtual reality, internet connections, and facebook friends. It is amazing how many people are craving for a return to the normal, the ordinary, and the routine of daily life - something that we often complained about before or took for granted. Perhaps now we have better eyes to see how good and blessed life really is . . .
While it was very heartening that 1400 people tuned in to our Mass this past Sunday (more than double our average of 650 on a weekend!) we are looking forward in anticipation to the day when we can all gather and celebrate as one, live and in person! But until then:
Message #1 from Fr. Ray (March 21st):
Dear IHM Parishioners,
I miss you all! I am very sorry that we will not be able to be together at Mass or in any of the many other ways we normally interact as a parish for the foreseeable future . Obviously there's a lot of feelings of fear about catching the disease, anxiety about the future, worry about loss of job or income, isolation from friends, sadness over people struggling with the disease, concern for our healthcare workers . . . Like anything challenging, we can allow it to harden our hearts or to stretch our hearts, to become bitter or to become better. But we all need help with this. Psalm 46 is a beautiful prayer of trust to refer to during this time.
Like you, I am also hunkered down here at IHM doing my best to avoid social interactions to lessen the spread of the contagion, as the way we are being invited to sacrifice ourselves for one another for the greater good - to love the Christ that is in each and every person.
IHM is usually the parish that never sleeps, with lots of life and activities going on, so it's quite a shock to all of a sudden see so much quiet - with empty buildings and an empty parking lot, kind of like a ghost town. (This is certainly a challenging time for us to learn to "Be still and know that I am God".) Of course the church is not these buildings, it is all of us. And while we may not be able to gather around our weekly table for our Eucharistic meal, we can gather in spirit, like many families in our world do when a loved one is not able to be present physically.
Just to keep you informed of a few things here at IHM:
Anointing of the Sick for those in serious condition should contact Fr. Ray.
We will be available to return phone calls: 224-4393 or emails: recoffice@ihmnh.org (office) or frray3@gmail.com (Fr. Ray)
For those watching Mass online, I would encourage you to participate, not just watch: Sit, stand, kneel, do the responses, fall asleep during the homily, and even sing! There's no one except you, God, and your family that has to hear your voice! At communion time, make an act of spiritual communion. I have enclosed an attachment with a prayer. I have also included a reflection on "Loving and Receiving the Body of Christ".
Heart of the Heights Bookstore: Our Bookstore is Closed. It will open by appointment. If there's something you'd like, contact Kathy Frasier: 228-3103 or kfrasier.ihm@gmail.com
Cardinal Sean O'Malley's Online Lenten Retreat (6 sessions): https://www.bostoncatholic.org/virtualretreat
Me Celebrating Winter Carnival by Myself! Join me for a Virtual Snowmobile Ride Around IHM: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1yjE4_p6cA
Praying: We strongly encourage people to stay at home and pray. For those who have been coming to the Adoration Chapel or the Church, we recommend staying at home and praying in your home instead!
Reading:
For those who asked about looking for something spiritually edifying to read during this time, I would encourage people to consider: "The Way of Imperfection" by Andre Daigneault.
This book is recommended by Cardinal Gerald Lacroix of Quebec (originally from Manchester NH) He wrote the forward to the book.
It can be purchased and read on kindle for $6.99: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BHQTVD1
Hard copy: https://www.amazon.com/Way-Imperfection-Holiness-Poor/dp/1933314516
To stay in touch with the Bishop & Diocese of Manchester:
Website: https://www.catholicnh.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dioceseofmanchester/
Daily Online Masses:
Bishop Robert Barron: https://www.wordonfire.org/daily-mass/
Boston: http://www.catholictv.org/masses/catholictv-mass
EWTN: channel 56 (schedule: https://www.ewtn.com/tv/weekly-grid)
Catholic Radio Mass: . Every day at 8am on 102.7FM WICX or listen online: http://www.wicxradio.org/listen-live .
Email photos of what you're doing, and we might be able to make a collage of parish photos we can post!
Any questions or concerns or needs, do not hesitate to contact me.
Remember: while a lot of things are closed, the outdoors is still open, laughter is still open, reading is still open, music is still open, faith is still open, hope is still open, love is still open, family is still open, life is still open, and God is still open . . . so let us remain open as well!
The poem/prayer "Pandemic"
What if you thought of it
as the Jews consider the Sabbath--
the most sacred of times?
Cease from travel.
Cease from buying and selling.
Give up, just for now,
on trying to make the world
different than it is.
Sing. Pray. Touch only those
to whom you commit your life.
Center down.
And when your body has become still,
reach out with your heart.
Know that we are connected
in ways that are terrifying and beautiful.
(You could hardly deny it now.)
Know that our lives
are in one another’s hands.
(Surely, that has come clear.)
Do not reach out your hands.
Reach out your heart.
Reach out your words.
Reach out all the tendrils
of compassion that move, invisibly,
where we cannot touch.
Promise this world your love--
for better or for worse,
in sickness and in health,
so long as we all shall live.
That's about it for now, so let's stay in touch!
Blessings,
Fr. Ray
FrRay3@gmail.com
224-4393 x1
Mass is Suspended in the Diocese of Manchester: In response to directives given by the President, the Center for Disease Control, and the Governor, to limit groupings to no more than 10 people, our Bishop Peter Libasci has declared that, effective immediately and until further notice, there will be no Masses available for the general public to attend in the Diocese of Manchester. The obligation to attend Mass is dispensed. This includes other church gatherings as well, such as Stations of the Cross and classes.
Priests will continue to celebrate Masses in private for the intentions of the people.
This is the way we are being called this Lent to put other people first, to hunger more deeply for Christ, to love our neighbor, to serve Christ in our brothers and sisters in the wider community, to live in solidarity with the sick, and to live in solidarity with many around the world who do not have frequent access to the Sacraments.
Sometimes we choose things to do or give up for Lent, and sometimes Lent chooses things for us . . . to stretch our hearts and to grow in love.
Loving and Receiving the Body of Christ by Fr. Ray Ball (March 19, 2020)
In the New Testament there are two Greek words used to refer to body, “soma” and “sarx”.
"Soma" refers to a body of a person insofar as it is good, healthy, and virtuous – for example the body of Jesus as it rose in glory from the dead.
"Sarx" refers to a body or flesh of a person pejoratively or negatively, or in an unfavorable way, insofar as the person gets sick, smells, sins, corrupts, decays, and dies.
Amazingly and scandalously, in the Gospel of John chapter 6, Jesus uses the term “sarx” not “soma” to refer to us eating his "body" or "flesh". It’s obvious that he is not simply referring to us receiving, becoming one with, embracing, and loving his perfect, resurrected, glorified body in heaven – or he would have used the term “soma”. By using the term “sarx” he must be referring to more than himself. By using the word “sarx” he must mean that we are also receiving, becoming one with, having compassion for, embracing, forgiving, being patient with, and loving the imperfect, sick, broken, wounded, sinful, suffering body and flesh of humanity that he is intimately one with – “the least of his brothers and sisters . . . the hungry, the thirsty, the homeless, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned” (Matthew 25). This is the body that Jesus loves, serves, identifies with, ate with, gave his life for, and wants us to love, serve, identify with, be in communion with, and give our lives to as well. This is the same reason Jesus washed feet at the Last Supper account in John 13, intimately connecting receiving the body of Christ with lovingly touching and washing the dirty, smelly parts of humanity. This can be challenging to us, which is the reason why so many of his believers walked away at that time (John 6:66) and why many of us may also be struggling at this time.
We cannot simply love Jesus in his glorified perfection in the Eucharist without at the same time loving him in his imperfect and annoying body of humanity in the world. It’s a whole package that cannot be separated. That’s the heart of the Christian message of Incarnation. This is why attempting to receive Jesus in the Eucharist at the risk of exposing others to this virus would totally contradict the love we are to have for Jesus who is to be loved “in the least of his brothers and sisters”. While we may not be receiving Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist at this time, this is the way we can receive and love Jesus in his "sarx" – through prayer and physical social distancing - at this place and during this time.
Blessed Lent & Blessed Way of the Cross!
Fr. Ray
Bishop Peter Libasci’s Easter Message:
https://www.catholicnh.org/assets/Documents/About/Bishop/PAL-EasterMessage2020.pdf
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The Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Concord, New Hampshire welcomes you to our humble home online. On this web site you will also find out about a lot of happenings around the Diocese and also the Catholic Church as a whole.
We hope you have the opportunity to visit us for prayer and the many spiritual, social and educational opportunities we offer. If you are looking for a permanent community with which to worship, we would love to have you become part of our family. Please take a moment and introduce yourself to us -or- please contact us at our Parish Office, located at 180 Loudon Road Concord, New Hampshire, 03301. For your convenience, an online registration form is available for download and to fill out before our opportunity to meet in person. |
