WHAT WILL YOU DO?Mathew Kelly ponders this question in his book, The Biggest Lie in the History of Christianity. “If you could perform one of Jesus’ miracles, which would you choose? Would you walk on water? I know a lot of college students who would turn water into wine. I know a lot of people who would feed the hungry of the world by multiplying loaves and fish, and others who would heal a loved one. Jesus’ first disciples saw him performing all these miracles, and yet what amazed and impressed them the most was the way he treated and forgave his enemies. Forgiveness is a Holy Moment.” (pg 83)

At some point most of us have fantasized about what we would do if we won the lottery, was boss (or pastor for a day), or had some superpower we could use. It is instructive to do so, in order to recognize whether we are generally selfish or other centered with our abilities. Generally, we end up laughing and moving on, as we realize that we are not likely to win the lottery or gain a superpower anytime soon. The Good News is that forgiveness is not an exotic reality bestowed upon the few, but a gift from God granted to all who desire it. Because forgiveness is often difficult and not usually modeled for us, we have come to believe that it takes superhuman effort to offer it. We talk ourselves out of doing it before we even try. Our individual and corporate activities can make a measurable difference in helping the hungry, decreasing the amount of plastic in landfills, or whatever cause is close to our hearts. However, offering someone forgiveness will dramatically change lives: granting peace and understanding, stopping a cycle of violence, or lowering despair and fatalism. Think of someone who has hurt you, disappointed you, betrayed you, etc. Perhaps you have done one of these to someone else? What specifically needs to be done to bring healing and forgiveness to this relationship? Commit yourself to this path this week. Do whatever it takes not to be discouraged or to talk yourself out of the process. Believe that God desires this for you and for you to do. May we all be able to make Holy Moments of Forgiveness. --Fr. Phil

“THE POWER OF THE EUCHARIST”: SCOTT HAHN IN MAINESaturday, August 10, 2019 - 9:00am-12:00pmCamden Hills Regional High School, Strom AuditoriumDon’t miss Dr. Scott Hahn, one of the Roman Catholic Church’s most renowned speakers and biblical scholars of today. A former Presbyterian minister and convert to the faith, he is the author of numerous works, including The Lamb’s Supper:The Mass As Heaven on Earth, Reasons to Believe and Rome Sweet Home, a story of his own conversion to the Catholic faith co-authored with his wife, Kimberly. Results from a recent study by Pew Research Center shows that Maine, and in particular mid-coast Maine, is the least churched in the entire country. Dr. Hahn will be coming to speak on how the power of the Holy Eucharist can ignite effective evangelization. Go deeper into the riches of our Catholic faith—register now!

More Details: stpaulcenter.com/rockport/ or call (740) 264-9535.Tickets $25 Children Under 18 FREE

LETTERS FROM BISHOP DEELEY REGARDING PEOPLE’S VETO CAMPAIGNS TO OVERTURN PHYSICIAN-ASSISTED SUICIDE AND TAXPAYER-FUNDED ABORTIONOn Thursday, July 18, in response to the requests of concerned Catholics, Bishop Robert P. Deeley sent two letters out regarding People’s Veto campaigns to overturn physician-assisted suicide and taxpayer-funded abortion. The letters can be found at back of all churches this weekend.

GATHERING OPPORTUNITY FOR FAMILIES OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AND ABILITIESOne of the goals of our parish Open Hearts Open Doors Ministry is to create gathering opportunities for families who have children with special abilities and needs. Our parish strives to provide a welcoming & nurturing environment where families can be comfortable to support one another spiritually and socially.Our 10-minute prayer service will begin at 6 pm followed by a relaxed “meet and greet” in our church hall, with various activities for your family to engage in while we get to know each other, from 6:10pm-7pm. This will be a space and time where individuals are welcome to move about in a way that is intrinsic to their needs. Snacks and beverages will be provided.Our parish Open Hearts Open Doors Team, who have personal and/or professional experience with children’s different abilities and needs, will be on hand to help the evening go smoothly for you and your children. Our team consists of parents of children with special needs, a behavior strategist, a recreation therapist, a therapeutic driving instructor with horses, a speech pathologist and our parish director of faith formation, who is also a teacher.Please join us as we begin our mission. To register for this event and to let us know about allergies, dietary concerns or other individual needs, please contact team member Maureen Plain, maureen.plain@gmail.com, 845.800.1759.

OPEN HEARTS OPEN DOORS is a parish ministry made possible by a grant from Catholic Charities, the support of our clergy, staff and parish volunteers who have formed a team to reach and address special needs in our communities, both within and beyond our pews. We want to assure that everyone is welcome in our churches, has the chance to worship at Mass and attend social, spiritual, and educational functions.

HAVE A MASS SAID FOR A LOVED ONEWhen we face the death of someone, even a person who is not Catholic, to have a Mass offered for the repose of their soul and to offer our prayers are more beneficial and comforting than any other sympathy card or bouquet of flowers. To have a Mass offered on the occasion of a birthday, anniversary or special need is appropriate, beneficial and appreciated. To schedule a Mass intention for a deceased loved one or a special intention, fill out one of the envelopes located in the Narthex of each church. Drop it in the offertory or deliver to the parish office. Or contact Joe at the Parish Office (553.9075) to schedule a Mass Intention. Cards for mailing are available at the office.

Open Hearts Open Doors Ministry Pastor’s Pondering 2

Knights of ColumbusCouncil #15791

Sunday July 28 Coffee & Pastry Socials following the Sunday Masses.Serving & set-up help appreciated. Tuesday August 6 The August social will be held for all members and their families. Location is Saint Gregory’s Church Hall at 7 PM. Guest speak-er will be Beth Simmons of the “Northern Light Home Care and Hospice.

“LET US ALWAYS TREASURE OUR ABILITY AS CATHOLICS TO OFFER SOCIAL, CHARITABLE, AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES IN A MANNER THAT FULLY REFLECTS THE GOD-GIVEN DIGNITY OF THE HUMAN PERSON. FREEDOM IS A GIFT, BUT ALSO A GREAT RESPONSIBILITY. MAY WE NEVER WAIVER IN OUR GRATITUDE TO THOSE WHO HAVE MADE OUR FREEDOM POSSIBLE, AND NEVER SACRIFICE IN OUR COMMITMENT TO PROMOTE THE VIR-TUES OF LIBERTY AND JUSTICE..” - BISHOP DEELEYMANY THANKS FROM THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS! To everyone who helped make our Fifth Annual Tootsie Roll Campaign a success - your participation and generous donations will allow us to support programs for people with intellectual disabilities again this year!

PILGRIMAGE:WALK THE FOOTSTEPS OF FR. SEBASTIAN RÂLE Sat., August 3, begins 10am at St. Sebastian Church, 161 Main St., Madison, MEFr. Sebastian Râle (also spelled Râsle) lived much of his life among the Abenaki people and is even credited with establishing Maine’s first school. He fiercely defended the rights of the Abenaki people and was killed by the British in 1724. Seven members of the tribe died trying to protect him. We will be visiting the places where he preached and ministered. All are welcome to attend. The group will meet at St. Sebastian Church, located on 161 Main Street in Madison, at 10 a.m., and the journey will conclude around 1 p.m. at the memorial of Father Râle, located in St. Sebastian Cemetery on the spot where he was killed. The pilgrimage will be led by Joseph Moreshead, a seminarian for the Diocese of Portland. There will be opportunities for prayer and meditation during the day. For more info, contact Joe Moreshead: joseph.moreshead@portlanddiocese.org.

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A GU IDED RETREAT FOR YOUNG ADULT CATHOL ICS

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FMI: PortlandDiocese.org/OLFF/YA-Retreat19or call Hannah Gonneville at 207.773.647 Mary Jane Silvia at 603.663.0172

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY!YARetreat2019.Eventbrite.comThen Peter said to Jesus,

"Rabbi, it is good for us to be here;" Mark 9:5

Family Faith Formation; Parish & Diocesan Happenings 3

17th Sunday in Ordinary TimeOur Liturgical color is: GREEN“Jesus teaches about PRAYER”

SCRIPTURE BACKGROUND:You’ve heard the expression, “One rotten apple spoils the whole barrel”? What does it mean? In today’s 1st reading, there is a conversation between God an Abraham that makes the opposite point: Sometimes just a few good people can help save many unfaithful people. See how Abraham is not afraid to keep asking God, over and over, for what he wanted? (Genesis 18:20-32)In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us how to pray, and that includes asking God for whatever we honestly think is important. (Luke 11:1-10). Listen for the Our Father prayer in this Gospel!!WE PRAY: “Holy Spirit, guide my prayers to be just, honest, thankful, and pure. Our Father, who art in heaven….”WE TALK: When I pray… 1. Will my request make me a better person? 2. Will it make be a more faithful Christian? 3. Is what I am asking for pleasing to God?WE ACT: My family will read these Bible stories together and talk about them.Go to pothe.formed.org to register for a FREE digital subscription.

Explore resources for all ages! Follow us on all social media.

Do you find yourself avoiding going to Mass because you have young active children who can’t sit still? Been there.

Do you feel disconnected from Parish life as a result? We did too.Do you wonder how your kids are going to learn anything about the

faith you knew growing up without regular church going? Our Parish has just the experience for young families like you.

It’s called Making Music, Praying Twice. And it’s an answer to your prayers.

Making Music, Praying Twice Summer Camp Week is an environment where kids can be kids. We romp. We roll. We explore instruments. We sing, chant, pray and learn. It purposely doesn’t feel like church. But it offers the richness of our faith that will help you and your family grow closer to God. Won’t you join in the fun?

To register, visit: pothe.org/making-music-praying-twiceor contact Jen Runge at the parish office at 847.6884 or pothe@portlanddiocese.

JULY 29 - AUGUST 2, MONDAY - FRIDAY - 10:30AM - HOLY MARTYRSOne child $30; Two or more $45;

(Use your coupon from baptismal prep for a free session!)

HOLY CROSS CEMETERY EASEMENTS & LOCATIONSIn an effort to update the Holy Cross Cemetery records, if you would like to check with the Cemetery office about your easement and location(s), please contact John Fencik, the Diocesan Director of Cemeteries at (207) 773-5796. That number is the office at Calvary Cemetery in South Portland where his office is located.

CONNECTED CATHOLICS OF MAINESun., August 11, 1pm, Dolphin Marina & Restaurant515 Basin Point Road, Harpswell, MECall Grace @ 878-6459 for info/directions.

FLOWERS AT ST. JUDESt. Jude’s traditionally has fresh flowers on the altar during the summer months. They can be wild flowers, flowers you grow in your garden or flowers from the market. There is a schedule of Sundays in the church hall. Please look it over and see if you can provide a bouquet one Sunday. There are vases in the kitchen area and you can bring your flowers home after the 9:30 am Mass. Thank you!

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOUP KITCHENThanks to all the parishioners who generously give to St. Vincent’s. We have recruited 12 people over the last year who volunteer time to the Soup Kitchen. So many more of you donate clothing on a regular basis. That’s what makes St. Vincent’s so success-ful. Thank you! Of course, more volunteers always needed. For more info call Evelyn (899.1784)

WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER“Knock and the door will be opened to you.” Discover the amazing plan God has for you and your marriage by attending a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend. The next Weekends are Sep 14-15, 2019 in Medway, MA and Oct 18-20, 2019 in Laco-nia, NH. For more information, callStephen & Michelle O’Leary at 800-710-9963 or visit them wwmema.org.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES GOLF CLASSICPut Children First & tee it up at the Catholic Chari-ties Golf Classic! The 17th Annual Catholic Charities Maine (CCM) Golf Classic will be held on Monday, September 16 at The Woodlands Club in Falmouth. The tournament raises funds for the Agency’s Put Children First scholarship fund, supportingscholar-ships for low-income, working families at CCM’s two nationally-accredited child development centers — St. Elizabeth’s in Portland and St. Louis in Bidd-eford. Please Register online by July 31st to secure your luxury gift bag at www.ccmaine.org/golf. FMI, call 523-1188.

IS IT TIME FOR AWAKENING FAITH?Are you a returning Catholic? Do you want to Awak-en your Faith? Contact Kim Lovett at our office to find out more. (207.847.6890)

A Noble Knight of GodThis modern take on the story of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, often called “the saint of second chances,” is an incisive and thrilling look at the life of the real man behind the legend.

Ignatius of Loyola

F O R M E D P I C K

Watch on formed.org

“Incredible story! I will watch this again.”—Pete G., Largo, FL

Parish, Diocesan & Local Events PARISH LIFE CONFERENCEThe Diocesan Parish Life Conference will be held October 4-5, 2019. Our speakers for this event will be Fr. Michael Joncas and Joe Paprocki. Topics will focus on Catholic teaching, developing/enhancing your skills, and spirituality. We hope that you will mark your calendar and consider attending this event. For more info, visit: portlanddiocese.org/olff/parish-life-conference-2019

Saturday, July 277:45am SH Rosary3:15pm HM,SH,SG Confessions3:25pm SG Rosary3:30pm HM RosarySunday, July 288:00am SJ Choir Practice9:30am SJ Baptism - Sierra SheanMonday, July 298:00am HM Adoration (Until 8:00 pm)10:30am HM Making Music, Praying Twice Summer Camp6:30pm SH Boy ScoutsTuesday, July 309:30am HM Centering Prayer (All are welcome!)10:30am HM Making Music, Praying Twice Summer CampWednesday, July 3110:30am HM Making Music, Praying Twice Summer Camp12:30pm HM Wild Goose (Small Faith-Sharing Group)12:30pm HM ACTS - Continuing the Journey7:00pm SG Choir Practice7:00pm SH Together w/ Alzheimer’s (Guest Speaker)Thursday, August 110:30am HM Making Music, Praying Twice Summer Camp6:00pm SH Grief Support GroupFriday, August 2 (PARISH OFFICE CLOSED)8:30am SG Adoration (until 12:30pm)10:30am HM Making Music, Praying Twice Summer CampSaturday, August 37:45am SH Rosary10:00am Fr. Rale Pilgramage (Begins at 10am at St. Sebastian Church, Madison, ME)3:15pm HM,SH,SG Confessions3:25pm SG Rosary3:30pm HM RosarySunday, August 48:00am SJ Choir Practice11:30am HM Baptism - Benjamin Devitto

Marriage BannsII Walter Purda / Marianne McNally

ApostolAte of prAyer for priests of the portlAnd dioceseSaturday, 7/27 Rev. Kevin Martin; Rev. Lionel ChouinardSunday, 7/28 Rev. Jacob George; Rev. Raymond MorencyMonday, 7/29 Rev. Armand Neauit; Rev. Selvaraj Kasi HGN Tuesday, 7/30 Rev. Alfred Jacques; Rev. Antony MullaneyWednesday, 7/31 Our Holy FatherThursday, 8/1 Rev. Paul Dumais; Rev. Antony Maria Doss HGNFriday, 8/2 Rev. Aaron Damboise; Rev. Fredrick MorseSaturday, 8/3 Msgr. Raymond Begin; Rev. Bertrand PoussardSunday, 8/4 All Priests

Pray for those who are ill or recovering from surgery… Ellie Peters, John Lambert, Thomas O’Connor, Mary Collins, Cherie Klewicki, Charlie Pinette, Patricia Becker, David Maurice, Sharyl Webster, Liz Chandler, Dave Toulouse, Beverly Wyse, Happy Copley, John V., Helen Roberge, Bonnie LaChance (wife of Paul LaChance), John Flood, David SmithPray for our seminarians… Matt Valles, Joshua Maloney, Liam Gallagher, Joseph Moreshead, Alex Boucher, Joshua Guillemette, Than Pham, Hoa NguyenLet us continue to keep in our healing prayers… Cindy, wife of Brother Steve Carrier, Brother Donald Hamalainen, Brother Gary & Diane Potvin, Cynthia, sister-in-law of Brother Chris Madden, Brother Paul Metevier, Father Ray Picard, Anne Theriault, sister-in-law of Brother George Spino, Lau-rene, wife of Brother Dennis Dempsey, Brother Manen Clements and wife Pat, Brother Mark Bastey, Michael A. Stone, brother-in-law of Brother Frank Lemanski, Brother Gerald Doucette, Nancy, wife of Brother John Walkenford, Yvonne, wife of Brother Chuck Devine, Kerry, wife of Brother Luke Pluto

Mass Schedule & Prayer IntentionsSaturday, July 27 8:15am SH Fr. M All Souls4:00pm HM Fr. T Edmund Collins by Mary Collins & Family4:00pm SH Fr. M Irma Bosse by Mark & Rene Roy4:00pm SG Fr. K Dori Smith by Barbara JannaroneSunday, July 28 8:00am SH Fr. PF Theresa McBrady by the McBrady Family8:30am HM Fr. T T.J. McManus by the Zinns8:30am SG Fr. K Angelo Muccino by Annemarie Salzberg9:30am SJ Fr. PF Lita Evangelista by Leo Dondiz10:30am HM Fr. T Parishioners11:00am SH Fr. K All Members of the Sargent Family by James & Maureen Gorman5:30pm HM Fr. T Leo Dionne by Lisa & Jon Rogers & FamilyMonday, July 297:30am HM Fr. T Aurore Foisy & David McKenney by Susan McKenney8:00am SG Fr. K Lindwood Law by The Bagdon FamilyTuesday, July 308:15am SH Fr. T Gus Galaz by Loretta MacKinnonWednesday, July 317:30am HM Fr. T All Souls8:15am SH Fr. K Fr. Michael Hull by Cynthia & Philip GerrardThursday, August 18:15am SH Fr. K Theresa M. McBrady by James & Susan KeeleyFriday, August 27:30am HM Fr. T All Souls8:00am SG Fr. K Aurore FoisySaturday, August 3 (PETER’S PENCE)8:15am SH Fr. M (Mass cancelled due to Fr. Paul being away.)4:00pm HM Fr. M TJ McManus by The Goves4:00pm SH Fr. K Konrad Bartles by Estela Valle4:00pm SG Fr. T Richard C. Paine, Jr. by Tina WeeksSunday, August 4 (PETER’S PENCE)8:00am SH Fr. K Mr. & Mrs. William B. Mahoney by The McBrady Family8:30am HM Fr. M Brian Flanagan by Lisa & John Rogers8:30am SG Fr. T All Souls9:30am SJ Fr. K D/F/F by Francis Murray10:30am HM Fr. M Irma Bosse by Mark & Rene Roy11:00am SH Fr. T Parishioners5:30pm HM Fr. M Marie Law by The Bagdon Family

POTHE 7th ANNUAL PICNIC SATURDAY AUGUST 17 ST. GREGORY 12pm-3pmCookout, music, karaoke, kickball, volleyball, swimming, lawn games!

Visit pothe.org or go to perfectpotluck.com/MYJR5955to sign-up for what food you will bring (appetizer, salad, fruit, snacks, dessert)

or on the Picnic Sign-up sheets at each church.For more info, contact Kim Palli (271.3133; pothe@portlanddiocese.org)

Parish of the Holy Eucharist Offices (Summer Hours - Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm), 266 Foreside Rd., Falmouth, ME, 04105, 207.847.6890Holy Martyrs Church: 266 Foreside Rd., Falmouth

Sacred Heart Church: 326 Main St., YarmouthSt. Gregory Church: 24 North Raymond Rd., Gray

St. Jude Church: 134 Main St., Freeport

Holy Martyrs Masses & Adoration are streamed live to our website and Facebook Live. Watch Sunday Mass on TV Channel 1303 at 10am & 4pm.Find us online: pothe.org & on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.

All staff may be reached by emailing: pothe@portlanddiocese.org or calling the parish office (207.847.6890).(Deacon Dennis’ Summer Office Hours at St. Gregory: Monday & Wednesday: 3pm - 6pm; 4th Tuesdays: 3pm - 6pm)

Bulletin item submissions are due 10 days prior to publication. Submit items to joseph.williams@portlanddiocese.org.

We are the Parish of the Holy Eucharist, a Catholic Community called to discipleship, seeking deeper communion with God, each other, and our neighbors by celebrating the Sacraments, sharing God’s word, and serving all in need.

Weekend Mass ScheduleSaturday, 4:00pm: Holy Martyrs, Sacred Heart, St. GregorySunday: Holy Martyrs: 8:30am, 10:30am, 5:30pm Sacred Heart: 8:00am, 11:00am St. Gregory: 8:30am; St. Jude: 9:30am

Eucharistic AdorationMondays, 8:00am - 8:00pm at Holy MartyrsFridays, 8:00am - 12:30pm at St. Gregory

Daily Mass ScheduleHoly Martyrs, 7:30am: Monday, Wednesday, FridaySt. Gregory, 8:00am: Monday, FridaySacred Heart, 8:15am: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday

Weekly Rosary (on Saturdays)7:45am-Sacred Heart; 3:25pm-St. Gregory; 3:30pm-Holy Martyrs

Confession (on Saturdays or by appointment)3:15pm: Holy Martyrs, Sacred Heart, St. Gregory

Fr. TracyPastor

Fr. Kaseta, OFM Cap Parochial Vicar

Fr. MarquisParochial Vicar

DeaconDennis Popadak

Melissa BagdonBusiness Manager

Georgette DionneFaith Formation Dir.

Kim LovettFaith Formation

Annie IaconoFaith Formation

Joe WilliamsCommunications

Jen RungeMusic Ministry Dir.