"Men do not fear a powerful hostile army as the powers of hell fear the name and protection of Mary."
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Fatima Centennial Reflection: A Deeper Belonging
“Terrorism is destroying lives. Gender ideology is wreaking havoc. Scandals, unbelief, and division continue to rack the Church. Across the globe and in our own homes, problems abound. Sometimes, watching the news or reading the headlines becomes an occasion for us to throw up our hands with the overwhelming feeling that the world is falling apart.And yet, Our Lady told us in Fatima, 'In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph.' That is,..." Click here to read the full reflection
Evangelization News, Tips & Ideas
Introducing Fraternus:
The "Man Crisis" and Our Response
It's possible that you've noticed that the Church is undergoing a significant "man crisis." We are failing to engage men, especially young men, in a meaningful way and form them as mature disciples of Jesus Christ. Statistics tell us that young Catholic men are leaving the Church in troubling numbers.One effective response to this problem is the Fraternus ministry (see video above). Fraternus is a parish-based ministry that operates on the principle that young men need mentors, rites of passage, and an experience of brotherhood in order to develop into mature Catholic men. Fraternus helps to recruit and train adult men in a parish to become “True Mentors” who go and earn from the young men of the parish the right to be heard through building genuine friendships. The result is a strong, virtue-based Catholic brotherhood that bears great fruit.
Consider supporting the growth of Fraternus in Philadelphia! The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is working to launch Fraternus chapters in our area. If you have a heart for a ministry like this and want to help make it happen, would you consider a financial contribution to help offset the cost of launching a Fraternus chapter in a parish? To make a donation, visit the New Evangelization Fund webpage and select "Outreach to Young Catholic Men" in the Please use this gift: section. Thank you!
What Is This Parish Doing?
While many Catholic parishes are seeing decline and lowering Mass attendance, this parish in the city of San Francisco is growing in every way. What are they doing to attract people, ignite the parish, and revive the neighborhood? Their solution is radical and countercultural...and it's working! Click here to read their story
Office for the New Evangelization
Upcoming Events
Consecration of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia
to Our Lady of Fatima
On Sunday, October 15, 2017,
Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
will consecrate the
Archdiocese of Philadelphia to Our Lady of Fatima
at the 11:00am Mass
at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
will consecrate the
Archdiocese of Philadelphia to Our Lady of Fatima
at the 11:00am Mass
at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
Please join us for this momentous occasion in the life of our local Church!
Around the Archdiocese...
If you would like to submit an event for inclusion in the newsletter, please email all pertinent information to asanders@archphila.org for consideration. Please submit event information in the format used below.
September 25 & 26, 2017, 6:30pm Prelude; 7:00pm Revival
Event: Revival: Two Evenings of Preaching and Praise
All are invited! Sponsored by the Office for Black Catholics & the Parishes of Black Catholic Community
Featuring: Fr. Paul Whittington, O.P., Homilist; Philadelphia Catholic Gospel Mass Choir; Immanuel Movement Praise Team
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer
September 26 - 28, 2017
Event: Dorothy Day Retreat - Faith, Spirituality, Hospitality and a Love for Land
This unique retreat will offer an experience of the Benedictine spirituality of Dorothy Day, who in her life integrated her love of God, neighbor and nature. This integration will be experienced through spiritual talks, quiet time and some light hands-on work - the "ora et labora" of St. Benedict. Cost: $250 pp.
Location: Malvern Retreat House
Directed by: Dr. Carmina Chapp, Ph.D.
More info: To register, visit malvernretreat.com/register or call 610-644-0400
Wednesday, September 27, 2017, 1pm
Event: Share the Journey celebration hosted by Catholic Social Services
Please join us as we begin our local participation in this worldwide two-year initiative launched by Pope Francis, meant to express our solidarity with and welcome of immigrants and refugees. We will have ethnic foods, lively music, and fun festivities as we welcome our newest arrivals into our community. Together with Pope Francis, we can lead the world in helping migrants and refugees to find their way among us.
Location: 130 E 7th Street, Chester, PA 19013
RSVP: 610-876-7101 or sabu@chs-adphila.org
September 27 to November 5, 2017
Event: 40 Days for Life
A public, peaceful, prayerful witness for the end of abortion.
Location: Various abortion clinics in the greater Philadelphia area
More info: Search for a location near you and sign up for a time slot(s) https://40daysforlife.com/browse-campaigns/
September 28 - 30, 2017
Event: The Society for Catholic Liturgy 2017 Annual Conference
Theme: The Liturgy and Post-Modernity
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul and the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center, Philadelphia
More info: Learn more & register at liturgysociety.org/conference/
September 29 - 30, 2017
Event: Walking in Confidence, Trusting in God's Promises - A 24-hour Women's Retreat
Join us for a message about the mercy and hope God provides, even in the face of unexpected life events. Cost: $150, including meals.
Speaker: Jennifer Hubbard, a mother who lost her 6-year old daughter Catherine Violet Hubbard during the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting
Location: Malvern Retreat House
More info: To register, call 610-620-0400 or visit malvernretreat.com/register
Saturday, September 30, 2017, 5pm - 11pm
Event: 16th Annual Oktoberfest at Ivy Hall
Join the party that's been running since 1810. "The Oktoberfest" is a festival of food, drink, and entertainment. Bring your friends and family and join us for German cuisine, a pig roast, imported German beer, music, and dancing!
Location: 6331 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19151More info: To RSVP, visit http://bit.ly/2xXdzFO. General Admission: $35/each, Teens (12-20): $25/each, Kids (7-11): $10/each. Price includes all food and beverages.
Wednesday, October 4, 2017, 7 - 9:30pm
Event: Reboot Live! with Chris Stefanick
A fun, inspiring and practical experience for all (ages 12 and up) for applying the beauty and genius of the Gospel to every aspect of your life, from prayer and spirituality, to work, dating, marriage, parenting, health and more!
Location: St. Agnes, Sellersville, PA.
Speakers include: Internationally renowned Catholic speaker, family man, father of five, musician and author Chris Stefanick, along with top performing live music artists
More info: Visit www.reallifecatholic.com/reboot. or contact Lesia at 215-804-7975
Thursday, October 5, 2017, 7-9:30pm
Event: Reboot Live! with Chris Stefanick
A fun, inspiring and practical experience for all (ages 12 and up) for applying the beauty and genius of the Gospel to every aspect of your life, from prayer and spirituality, to work, dating, marriage, parenting, health and more!
Location: St. Philip Neri Parish Church, 437 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill, PA.
Speakers include: Internationally renowned Catholic speaker, family man, father of five, musician and author Chris Stefanick, along with top performing live music artists
More info: www.reallifecatholic.com/reboot. Look for October 5th and St. Philip Neri to purchase online.
Friday, October 6, 2017, 6:30pm
Event: St. Mary's Franciscan Shelter for Homeless Families's 30th Anniversary Gala
Since 1987, St. Mary’s Franciscan Shelter has housed more than 600 families, provided over 112,500 nights of shelter and over 336,000 meals for homeless families in Chester & Montgomery counties – including case management and on-site coaching to foster dignity and independence. Join us to celebrate our 30th Anniversary. The event will include appetizers, dinner, open bar, dessert, speakers, and live and silent auctions.
Location: River Crest Golf Club, Phoenixville,PA
Friday, October 6, 2017, 7pm-11pm
Event: Anthem Ministries Oktoberfest
For young adults 21 and over: We're all about bringing people together to laugh, hang out, and show off our lederhosen. We're pretty sure that one of the best ways to do that is beer, German food, live music and having the place all to ourselves.
Location: Frankford Hall, PhiladelphiaMore info: Visit the webpage
Saturday, October 7, 2017, 9am - 12pm
Event: Pre-screening of Gosnell: America's Biggest Serial KillerAn exclusive Pennsylvania pre-screening of the new movie Gosnell: America's Biggest Serial Killer will be shown. Everyone who sees this movie will have their eyes opened to the truth of what can happen in abortion facilities in America today. The movie co-producer and the book co-author, Ann McElhinney, will be present to share some insights and to sign books during that time. There is no charge to attend, but free will donations will be greatly appreciated. This event is sponsored by Bucks County Right to Life.
Location: County Theater, 20 East State Street, Doylestown, PA 18901.
More info: Email Kathy Cox at angel092051@aol.com to reserve a seat in advance.
Saturday, October 7, 2017, 7pm
Event: Archdiocesan Rosary, Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary
Come as families, as members of the Legion of Mary, as Pro-Life Groups, as Prayer Groups, as Young Adult Groups, come and fill the Cathedral Basilica as sons and daughters of our Mother in heaven!
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA
More info: View the website
October 7, 2017, 7pm, 10:30pm
Event: An Evening with G. K. Chesterton
Join the Southeast Pennsylvania Chesterton Society as they welcome special guest, Dr. John "Chuck" Chalberg, known for his portrayal as G.K. Chesterton on the EWTN series The Apostle of Common Sense. The performance will be followed by a Q&A and a light reception. A free will offering will be accepted at the door.
Location: International Institute for Culture at Ivy Hall, 6331 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19151
To learn more: Visit http://www.sepachesterton.org
Event: An Evening with G. K. Chesterton
Join the Southeast Pennsylvania Chesterton Society as they welcome special guest, Dr. John "Chuck" Chalberg, known for his portrayal as G.K. Chesterton on the EWTN series The Apostle of Common Sense. The performance will be followed by a Q&A and a light reception. A free will offering will be accepted at the door.
Location: International Institute for Culture at Ivy Hall, 6331 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19151
To learn more: Visit http://www.sepachesterton.org
Sunday, October 8, 2017, 6:30pm Mass
Event: Queen Takeover: Consecration of Archdiocesan Youth and Young Adults to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
At this Mass, Archbishop Chaput will dedicate the youth & young adults in Philadelphia to Mary, a woman whose courage ultimately changed the world.
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: Visit the ANTHEM Ministries website
Sunday, October 8, 2017, 2:00-6:00pm
Event: Sidewalk Advocates Training by Dr. Monique Ruberu
Sidewalk Advocates training is an opportunity to learn how to be the hands and feet of Jesus on the sidewalk in front of abortion centers. It teaches us how to effectively and lovingly offer alternatives to those entering or leaving the centers and engage in conversations when the moment arises. It allows us to bring peace, prayer and love to where it is needed most. It helps us to be the voice for the voiceless.
Location: The Neumann Room, located behind the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter & Paul, next to Our Lady of the Apostles Garden. Free parking available: 222 North 17th St. Philadelphia, PA 19103.
More info: Space is limited, RSVP here
Monday, October 9, 2017, 7pm
Event: Solemn Choral Mass for the Feast of Blessed John Henry Newman (Divine Worship - The Ordinariate Use of the Roman Rite)
Come and worship the Lord in the beautiful liturgy of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter on the Feast Day of Bl. John Henry Newman.
Come and worship the Lord in the beautiful liturgy of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter on the Feast Day of Bl. John Henry Newman.
Homilist: Bishop John J. McIntyre, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: View the flyer
Thursdays, October 12 - December 7, 6:30 pm (No meeting Nov 23 or 30)
Event: Discovering Christ
Too Busy? 7 weeks may change your life! Explore answers to some of themost important questions worth asking about your faith and finding purpose in life. Discovering Christ is a 7 week experience. The Format - share a meal and get to know others, listen to a talk then discuss and discover. Or just listen. Information Night is September 14, at 7 pm.
Location: Saints Simon and Jude Parish, Rte 3 and 352 in West Chester
More info: Send email to email@simonandjude.org, call 610-696-3624 or go to simonandjude.org/discovering-christFriday, October 13, 2017, 7:00pm
Event: Archdiocesan Holy Hour in Honor of Our Lady of Fatima
Come and bask in the light and beauty of the Blessed Sacrament in honor of the last day of Our Lady's apparitions in Fatima 100 years ago when God gave us the Miracle of the Sun
Location: Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul Chapel, Philadelphia, PA
More info: View the flyer
Friday, October 13, 2017, 7:00 PM
Event: Fatima Holy Hour
Sponsored by Our Lady of the Rosary Society.
Location: Sacred Heart Parish, Swedesburg/Bridgeport, PA
Friday and Saturday, October 13-14, 2017
Event: Celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Appearance of Our lady of Fatima
On Friday, there will be a Rosary--Praise and Worship--Homily--Exposition/Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. On Saturday, Father Thaddaeus will celebrate Mass
Recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet--Family Blessing
Speaker/Celebrant: Fr. Thaddaeus Lancton, MIC, from the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA.Location : St. Ignatius of Antioch Church, 999 Reading Ave., Yardley, PA 19067
Saturday, October 14, 2017 11:45am - 12:45pm
Event: Rosary Rally in the Heart of Richboro to Commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun at Fatima
Location: The corner of Almshouse Road and 2nd Street Pike on the side of Walgreen/Giuseppe/s
Saturday, October 14, 2017, 8:30am – 3:30pm
Event: Critical Life Issues Conference - “Be Not Afraid! Love Unleashes Life!”
Speakers: Stephanie Gray – “Abortion and the Art of Communicating Truth”; Sean O’Hare – “Evangelization and Building a Pro-Life Culture”; Eileen Benthal – “Breathing Underwater – A Caregiver’s Journey of Hope”; Fr. Edmund Luciano lll – “Organ Donation – The Gift of Life in the Midst of Sorrow”
Location: St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway, NJ
Sunday, October 15, 2017, 11am - 12:30pm
Event: Consecration of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to Our Lady of Fatima
Celebrant: Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, 7 - 8:30pm
Event: Faith-based support group for moms
Do you worry about raising your children in our secular society or carry heavy burdens for them? Are you looking for support, encouragement and guidance in a caring, faith-based setting? This moms' group will offer group discussion, sharing, and prayer that will link our everyday challenges and struggles with the solutions given to us through teachings of Christ in the Catholic Church. We welcome moms of all ages.
Place: Our Lady of Charity Convent, 231 Upland Rd., Brookhaven, PA 19015; When facing Church, convent is on immediate right. Enter front door. Frequency: Once/month on the 1st Sunday evening of each month (11/5, 12/3, etc.)
More info: Contact facilitator, Dana Westby, at danawestby@hotmail.com or 215-275-0782.
October 15 - 17, 2017, 7pm each evening
Event: St. Joseph Church (Aston), Parish Mission - The Fullness of Purpose
Speaker, Ken Yasinski's dynamic communication style will make relevant the timeless truths of our faith. Come, be inspired to live your full potential. All are welcome to this free event.
Speaker: Ken Yasinski
Location: St. Joseph's Church, Aston PA
More Info: Call 610-497-3340
Friday, October 20, 2017 - 7:00pm
Event: Therese The Story of a Soul
An inspiring live drama based on the autobiography of Thérèse of Lisieux, a French Discalced Carmelite nun, later recognized as a saint.
Performed by: Audrey Ahern, directed by Patti Defilippis
Location: St. Anthony of Padua Church, 259 Forest Ave, Ambler PA 19002
Cost: $15 Adults / $10 Youth 12 & under
More info: 215-646-4742 or www.saintanthonyparish.org
October 20 - 22, 2017
Event: Our Lady of the Rosary and St. David's Family Retreat
Enjoy an opportunity to renew your relationship with God and your loved ones. Retreat includes activities for children, family meals, special liturgies and more. All are welcome, including young children, teens and grandparents. Cost: $395 per family (parents/minor children). Each additional couple is $370. Single adult $195.
Location: Malvern Retreat House
Retreat Director: Fr. Michael Shea, Associate Director, Central Association of the Miraculous Medal
To register: Call 610-644-0400 or visit malvernretreat.com/register
Saturdays, Oct 21, 2017, Jan 3, 2018 and Mar 3, 2018, 9:00pm - 3:00pm
Event: Institute for Christian Initiation
Location: Archdiocesan Pastoral Center, 222 North 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Presenter: Father Dennis Gill, Director of the Office for Divine Worship
More info: View the website; email: worship@archphila.orgSunday, October 22, 2017 - 3:00pm
Event: St. Lucy Parish Anniversary Celebration
Saint Lucy Parish, Manayunk, if it were still open, would be celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. In thanksgiving for the many blessings God has continued to bestow on this community of faith, a Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated at 3:00 P.M, at Holy Saviour Church, Norristown, PA. A dinner will follow at 5:00 P.M. at the Presidential Caterers. $50 per person, cash bar. Checks may be sent c/o Father Michael Olivere, Saint Timothy Church, 3001 Levick Street, Philadelphia, PA 19149. Please make checks payable to Saint Timothy Church.
More info: Any questions please call Saint Timothy Rectory at 215.624.6188.
November 3, 2017 - 7:30pm
Event: Rod Dreher discusses “The Benedict Option”
Our culture is changing fast. How should Christians adapt? Bestselling author Rod Dreher proposes that parishes and schools need to become more intentional about catechesis and practicing our faith in an era when we can no longer assume a cultural background sympathetic to the faith.
Location: Martin Saints Classical High School, 120 Allison Road, Oreland PA (a shared location with Holy Martyrs parish)
Speaker: Rod Dreher, blogger and author of The Benedict Option: A Strategy for Christians in a Post-Christian Nation
To learn more: Visit the school’s event website, http://www.martinsaintsclassical.org/school/RodDreher-20171103.htmlNovember 3-12, 2017
Event: Vocation Awareness Week
Check out the Vocations Office events surrounding Vocation Awareness Week and get involved, but not just you—your parish, youth group, PREP program, and other parish organizations. See how you can help create a culture of vocations in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia!
Schedule of Events: View the website
November 4, 2017 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Event: Men’s Spirituality Conference: Men of Iron – I Command You To Be Strong and Steadfast
Please join us for our 2nd annual Men’s spirituality Conference. Nationally known author and Counselor Dr. Peter Kleponis will be making morning and afternoon presentations.
Location: St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Ambler PA
More info: The cost is $20 per person. Please visit us at www.saintanthonyparish.org for complete details.
Tuesdays, Nov 7, 14, and 21, 2017
Event: Contemporary Questions about the Last Things
Many people think that death is the end of one’s existence. Yet, Christians believe in the resurrection of the body, Heaven, Hell and Purgatory. What difference does Christian hope about the last things make to our lives right now? Join internationally renowned theologian Sr. Sara Butler in a short course on these and related questions.
Location: Mother Boniface Spirituality Center, 3501 Solly Ave, Philadelphia
Presenter: Sr. Sara Butler, MSBT, STL, PhD
More info: Free will offering; Please email mbcretreat@msbt.org or call 267-350-1830 to register
Thursday, November 9, 2017, 7pm
Event: Vianney - Renewing the Heart of the Church
Experience this inspiring production on the life of St. John Vianney, a remarkable priest and model of holiness who courageously battled the devil to save souls. The performance, which is filled with all the elements of professional theater, is suitable for ages 9 and up.
Performed by: Leonardo Defilippis
Location: St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 15 East Pleasant Grove Road, West Chester, PA 19382
Cost: $8 single ticket / $10 two tickets / $15 families of 3 or more
More info: 610-399-6936 or www.stmax.org
Event: Vianney - Renewing the Heart of the Church
Experience this inspiring production on the life of St. John Vianney, a remarkable priest and model of holiness who courageously battled the devil to save souls. The performance, which is filled with all the elements of professional theater, is suitable for ages 9 and up.
Performed by: Leonardo Defilippis
Location: St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 15 East Pleasant Grove Road, West Chester, PA 19382
Cost: $8 single ticket / $10 two tickets / $15 families of 3 or more
More info: 610-399-6936 or www.stmax.org
November 10, 2017, 7pm to 10pm
Event: Young Adult Movie Night at the Seminary
Join us for a viewing of "I Confess," an Alfred Hitchcock thriller and a discussion to follow. It will be a fun way to grow in our understanding of this great Sacrament as we celebrate the fact that God still calls men to be the priests who hear our confessions. Soft drinks and snacks will be provided!
Location: St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, 100 E Wynnewood Rd, Wynnewood, PA
More info: Young Adult Movie Night at the Seminary November 10- 12, 2017
Event: Unbound Leadership Conference: The Joy of the Harvest
The Unbound Leadership Conference is for anyone who wants to grow in using the Unbound model to minister to others. Whether you lead a team or feel called to be an intercessor, whether you have been using the unbound model for 10 years or a few months this conference is for you. Come be equipped, renewed, and refreshed!
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Airport, 4509 Island Road, Philadelphia
More info & registration: View the website
Event: Unbound Leadership Conference: The Joy of the Harvest
The Unbound Leadership Conference is for anyone who wants to grow in using the Unbound model to minister to others. Whether you lead a team or feel called to be an intercessor, whether you have been using the unbound model for 10 years or a few months this conference is for you. Come be equipped, renewed, and refreshed!
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Airport, 4509 Island Road, Philadelphia
More info & registration: View the website
November 17-19, 2017
Event: Together as One: Theology of the Body & Married Life
Participants of this 3-day seminar retreat will immerse their marriage in the riches of St. John Paul II’s vision of marital love. Couples will gain a deeper understanding of the Sacrament of Matrimony and be provided direct applications of the teaching to the lived experience of modern family life. Join other married and engaged couples for a unique time of discussion, prayer, group reflection, and daily celebration of the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confession.
Location: St. Mary of Providence Retreat Center, Elverson, PA
Presenters: Dr. Gregory Bottaro, PsyD and Dr. Mario Sacasa, PhD, LMFT.
More info: Visit the website: http://tobinstitute.org/marriage-retreat/ or call 215-302-8200 ext. 104
Catholic Family Fun Club
As always, families can stay tuned to the Catholic Family Fun Club Meetup Group for events and activities for Catholic families in our area!
LOOKING AHEAD...
All of 2017 - Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima!
October 28, 2017 - Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC
February 1-11, 2018 - Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to the Holy LandMarch 3, 2018 - Man Up Philly: Men's Conference, Philadelphia
March 8, 9, & 10, 2018 - The Cross and the Light Passion Play, Hatboro
March 17, 2018 - Cultural Heritage Mass, Philadelphia
March 24, 2018 - Mass for Persons with Disabilities and Their Caregivers, Philadelphia
April 4-6, 2018 - Humanae Vitae Symposium, Washington, DC
Save the Date! July 27-29, 2018 - Casting Nets Evangelization Institute (English/Español), Malvern Retreat House, Malvern