Southern Cattaraugus Vicariate Mass celebrating the 175th Anniversary of the Diocese 2022 commemorates the 175th anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of Buffalo. The diocese was officially established on April 23, 1847 with Bishop John Timon as the first bishop. Throughout this year various activities and events will be taking place. One such event is a regional vicariate Mass. Bishop Michael Fisher is going to each Vicariate to celebrate a Mass during this year. The Mass for our Vicariate (Southern Cattaraugus) was Thursday, August 11 (Feast of St. Philomena) at St. Philomena Church, Franklinville. This was a wonderful opportunity for our parishes to come together and meet Bishop Fisher.

The Spirit comes with the tenderness of a true friend and protector to save, to heal, to teach, to counsel, to strengthen, to console. Holy Spirit guide me and enlighten me to live a good life. Amen. -adapted from Cyril of Jerusalem, 360 AD  

Luke 12:49-53:  This passage can so easily be misinterpreted. A reader might be convinced that Jesus wants to spread conflict, for conflict’s sake. When Jesus says He wants to “set the earth on fire,” He doesn’t mean a destroying fire, but a “fire” of zeal for living the faith with integrity, like Paul described in today’s second reading. The “fire” Jesus describes is the fire that will consume and destroy the “chaff,” (unrepentant sinners), who will be separated from the “wheat;” (faithful people who repent of their sins; and who are sincerely trying to live the faith). Jesus sees how choosing to accept or reject the faith will, inevitably, separate people from one another; both in the intimate confines of the family and in society. Choices always have consequences and the choice for or against the faith is no exception. Which will we choose? God’s Will be done!

Come and register Monday thru Thursday and enjoy Catholic Vacation Bible Camp for children ages Pre-K thru 10 years old! Special Family Day Thursday with bounce house, spaghetti dinner and magic show!