Parish Lenten Opportunities:
Lent has begun! We invite you to come join us in any and all of our of our many Lenten opportunities:
- Stations of the Cross: Friday nights in Immaculate Conception Church at 7:00pm, February 23rd; March 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd.
- Shadow Stations of the Cross: in ICS Gym on March 25th at 8:45am and March 28th at 6:30pm.
- Good Friday Stations of the Cross: Immaculate Conception Church on March 30th at 3:00pm.
- Celebration of the Sacrament of Penance:
- Saturdays 4:00-4:50pm - IC individual confessions
- Sundays 8:20-8:50am - SJ individual confessions
- Tuesday, February 20 10:00am:ICC - ICS Reconciliation (open to all)
- Wednesday, March 7 6:30pm: ICC - Rel Ed. Reconciliation (open to all)
- Monday, March 19 7:00pm:ICC - Parish Mission Reconciliation/Taize Service (open to all)
- Any time by appointment
- Taize Prayer: March 19, 7:00pm at IC Church
- Parish Lenten Mission with Msgr Daniel McGlynn, “Repent and Believe the Good News! Mark 1:15”March 18-20th - ICC
- First Sunday for Adoration: March 2nd1:30-3:00pm in IC Chapel
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2018 VBS PLANNING IS HERE - "Shipwrecked" Totally Catholic VBS is where kids learn that Jesus rescues! If you couldn’t attend the meeting but would like to be part of this exciting adventure, contact the parish religion office at 410-392-3551. Future meetings will be posted as scheduled. We need YOU!
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ICS Paint Nite!! Come to Paint Nite at ICS on Friday, March 9th! Come together for a fun evening with your friends, or to meet new ones as you help raise money to support enrichment activities for the children at ICS. Get tickets today!!
SAVE THE DATE: It’s time to get your Shamrock on!! Our annual St. Patrick’s Dinner is going to be taking place on Saturday, March 10th at 6:30pm Join us for great food, live music, prizes and more! Tickets are $30 per person or $50 per couple. They are on sale now! Visit the Parish Office or our website to purchase tickets!
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Theology on Tap! "Christian in Today's World: How to be Catholic in a post-Christian Society" presented by Michael Gokie
When: Wednesday, February 21st
Where:Minihane's Irish Pub & Restaurant 101 West Main Street Elkton, MD 21921
Seating begins at 6:30pm and the presentation at 7pm. There is no fee for the event but please consider patronizing the establishment kind enough to host us! Michael Gokie is a member of the Sodality of Christian Life, a lay Society of Apostolic Life, and serves as the Associate Director of the Drexel Newman Catholic Community at Drexel University. Michael attended the University of Nebraska and studied education for three years before entering into his religious community. He iscurrently studying at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia, PA, will graduate with a Philosophy degree this May, and continue his Theological studies next year.
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February19, 2018
8:30AMGena and Kevin Lilly (Living Intention)
February20, 2018
8:30 AMJohn Marron
February21, 2018
8:30 AMMichael Duccy
February22, 2018
8:30 AMJim Mackey
February23, 2018
8:30 AM Steven Hardy (Living Intention)
February24, 2018
8:30 AMAnthony Sniadowski, Sr.
5:00 PMDorothy and Early Martin
February25, 2018Second Sunday of Lent
7:00 AMPeople of the Parish
8:30 AMTillie Blendy
9:00 AM SJEd Banas
10:15 AMJohn ‘Leo’ Williams
12:00 PMJohn Konzelman Sr.
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Congratulations to those who were recently baptized:
IzadoraJaiaJirkovsky
Carson Anthony Macherone
We extend our condolences and prayers to the families of those who have recently died:
Mathilde Seaman
We extend a warm welcome to our new Parishioners:
Mr. and Mrs. Sean Carroll and Family
Liturgy
Readings for next week: First Sunday of Lent
First Reading: Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18
God ordered Abraham to take his beloved only son to Moriah and offer him as a sacrifice. Abraham built an altar and took out a knife to sacrifice his son Isaac. But God called out to him and told him of blessings that would be bestowed on him and his descendants because he had been willing to do what God had asked.
Second Reading: Romans 8:31b-34
Paul reminds us that God did not spare his only Son, but gave him up for the sake of all people. This proves God views us all as his children, and that no person can harm or condemn us because God will protect us.
Gospel: Mark 9:2-10
Jesus led Peter, James and John up a high mountain, where he conversed with Elijah and Moses. A voice proclaimed ‘This is my Son, my beloved. Listen to him.” Then Jesus was alone and warned them not to tell anyone what they had seen until he had risen from the dead.
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What is a Catechumen?Last Sunday, we sent seven adults and two children to meet with the bishop yesterday, Saturday, February 17. They attended a special rite at Holy Cross in Dover, called the Rite of Election. This raises the question, “what is a catechumen?” A catechumen is a person over the age of seven who has not been baptized. Since September, they have been studying and praying, and have been judged worthy by their catechists and sponsors to be presented to the bishop. At this rite, they are called up to write their name in a special book called the ‘Book of the Elect.’ The bishop will sign it,and show his approval of their decision. The book will then be brought back to the parish and displayed throughout Lent. At this point they are no longer called catechumens but are called ‘the Elect’ as they have been elected by the bishop to proceed to the Easter sacraments. Please keep them in your prayers as they prepare to receive Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
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ADULT ENRICHMENT PROGRAM:
This Monday, Feb. 19th at 6:30pm & Tuesday, Feb 20th at 9:15am, our new program entitled, Simbolon begins! The topic is: “The Journey of Faith: Trinity, Faith, and the God Who is Love.” Next Week’s topic will be: “Divine Revelation: God Seeking Us and the Compass for Our Lives.” All who want to learn more about their faith are welcome!! Call the Religion office with any questions!
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YOUNG ADULTS:
Lenten Fish Fry & ConnectionsJoin the parish's young adults March 2nd and 16th following Stations of the Cross at Immaculate Conception Church in the parish center for food and Connections.‘Connections’ is a parish based young adult faith formation program and inspires Catholics to pursue their spiritual transformation and equips them to be fully devoted disciples of Jesus Christ. Please contact Maddie at so we can plan accordingly!
Daily Readings: First Sunday of Lent
Sunday
Gn 9:8-15; 1 Pt 3:18-22; Mk 1:12-15
Monday
Lv 19:1-2, 11-18; Mt 25:31-46
Tuesday
Is 55:10-11; Mt 6:7-15
Wednesday
Jon 3:1-10; Lk 11:29-32
Thursday
1 Pt 5:1-4; Mt 16:13-19
Friday
Ez 18:21-28; Mt 5:20-26
Saturday
Dt 26:16-19; Mt 5:43-48
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Adoration for Vocations: On the 1st Sunday of each month, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament occurs from 1pm-3pm in IC Chapel. Join us to pray for vocations to priesthood and religious life. The next opportunity is March 4th. Contact Dermott Mullan at 410-398-3368
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Does your child need to be Baptized? The next Baptism Class is Monday, March 19th. 7:00-8:30pm in the Parish Center. It’s never too early to prepare for the Baptism of your child. Parents are required and Godparents are encouraged to attend. Contact us to register and arrange the Baptism date at 410-398-1100.
Liturgical Ministers for Next Week:February24-25
5:00pm
Altar Servers:Donovan O, Grace BEM’sMadison L, Gina L, Mary Ann ELector: Alison DUshers:Eileen P,Bill B,Pat C
7:00am
Altar Servers:Sarah B, Jacob BEM’s: Sandra H, Alan S, Gerald MLector:Edward RUshers:Charles M, William C
8:30am
Altar Servers:Grace S, Jeremy MEMs:Don H, Pat K, Mary Ann HLector:Louis NUshers: Anthony D, Steve C, Wendel S, Anthony M
9:00am (SJ)
Altar Servers:Joseph H, Mitchell HEM’s:Larry B, Dorothy D, Dotty F, Carol V, Peggy OLector:Michele CUshers:Kevin O, Bill D, Jule V
10:15am
Altar Servers:Chloe B, Tommy MEM’s:Rita M, David L, Peter G, Cecilia GLector:Ben FUshers:Steve A, Bob W
12:00noon
Altar Servers:Gabriel OEM’s:Cynthia J, Kathy C, Charles CLector:Roberto OUshers:Teresa G
Children’s Liturgy of the Word
Children’s Liturgy is for children ages 5-8 ONLY. Children who are not in this category are asked to remain in church.
Thecatechist for next Sunday, Feb25this:
Kimberly Burnham
Faith Formation
Immaculate Conception School News
The signs of Lent are visible in the halls and classroom of our school, but more importantly, in the faces of our students staff. We have all reflected on what we can do to make Lent meaningful so that we are more fully prepared for Easter. To help us on that journey, we will hold a Reconciliation Service Tuesday, February 20that 10:00am.
All classes will also attend Stations of the Crosseach week. We welcome you to join us in the church. Here is the schedule for this week:
Tuesday, February 20th at 1:00pm -4th 5th grades
Thursday, February 22nd at 12:30pm – 6th grade
Friday, February 23rd at 11:00am – 7th grade;12:30pm -K 1st grades; and 1:30pm –2nd 3rdgr.
Now is the perfect time to come and see some of the amazing activities and tremendous academics that ICS provides for its students! You may schedule a school tour at any time by calling Emily Murphy at 410-398-2636. If you are considering applying for tuition assistance, now is the perfect time to come visit ICS.
Do you have a young child at home? Are you looking for ideas to help you foster a love of reading for your child? Do you home school your child, and you want fresh ways to encourage reading? We may have an answer for you. Our next Story Time session will be this Tuesday, Feb. 20at 9:00am. If you have questions about the program or are interested in helping, please contact Emily Murphy at the school 410-398-2636.
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Faith Formation
Religious Education & Sacraments
Religion Classes for Grades K-8:
Sunday Program: Classes for Gr. K-8 will be held today, Feb. 18th at 8:30am
Wednesday Program: Classes for Gr. 1-8 will be held this Wednesday, Feb. 21st at 6:15pm.
FIRST COMMUNION PROGRAM:
Next Sunday, Feb. 25th, a Parent/Child First Communion Meeting will be held from 4 to 5:30pm in Church. Call the parish religion office with any questions or concerns.
Religious Ed/Youth Ministry Registration:
Registration is open for our religious education/youth ministry and sacrament programs for next year. Religion Classes are held on Sunday mornings from 8:30-10am and Wednesday evenings from 6:15-7:45pm.
You can register either:
- -Online by looking under Faith Formation on the Parish Website or
- -By completing a hard copy of the forms obtained from the parish religion office.
*It is important to register now through the month of March to reserve your child’s place in our programs and to avoid a late fee!!
**Note: Finances are never a reason not to register! Payment plans/assistance is available if needed.
Questions?Contact Sister Grace at 410-392-3551
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Youth Ministry & Confirmation
CONFIRMATION PROGRAM:
Regular meeting times this week. Turn in your homework/letter to the Holy Spirit.
DONATIONS NEEDED: clip boards- used are fine! Drop off at parish center/Cheryl Nickle.
YOUTH GROUP: Meeting tonight at 6:30It is M&M time once again! Plan to join us!
YOUTH MINISTRY WISH LIST: paper products, BOTTLED WATER, pizza gift cards
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Have you checked out our Lent Resources?
- Sign up to receive daily Lenten reflections as well as free access to “Formed” during Lent for Movies, CDs, Books, etc. about our Catholic Faith. Go to or find the link on our website.
- Take a black Lent Book available in the vestibules of Church!
- -Visitour Website at iccparish.weconnect.com and look under Faith Formation, to find the Lent Resources for Prayer, Scripture, etc.
- The weekly Scripture puzzles for children are posted on our Parish Website under Children’s Corner. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
YOUNG ADULTS
Thank you to Maddie Reese for spearheading the creation of our Young Adult’s Group. Theology onTap scheduled for Wed. Feb. 21 at Minihane’s in Elkton, seating starts at 6:30 p.m., and speaker begins at 7.Join us!!
Social Concerns
Outreach:
Please consider donating non-perishable foods to the Outreach! Thank you for your help, prayers, & donations to this essential ministry!!
We are currently in need of:canned fruit, pudding, jello, canned ravioli and spaghetti-o’s and feminine hygiene products
Pregnancy Center Baby Bottle Campaign: It is Baby Bottle time when we ask you to continue the great work you started! Empty bottles are provided in the vestibules of the Church. Please consider picking one up after Mass, so that you can bring it home to collect loose change, dollar bills, or a check. Please return the baby bottle to the baskets in Church on February 24/25!
Parish and Family Life
Parish Coffee: Join us for Parish CoffeeMarch4thafter the 9 AM Mass at St. Jude’s.
Join us for Parish Coffee, March 11thafter 10:15 mass at IC! Hope to see you there
Parish Events / Information
Offertory Week of: February11 Fiscal Budget
Immaculate Conception $8,938.27 $9,217.00
St. Jude’s $1,768.00 $1,826.00
Online $4,942.00 $2,773.50
Total: $15,648.27 $13,816.50
2017-2018 Fiscal YTD Offertory Surplus $3,965.55
Consider switching to Electronic Giving. It's easy, convenient, consistent. Visit iccparish.webconnect.com, click “GO TO ONLINE GIVING” and sign up. It's that easy
Sunday, February18
8:20 AMConfessions - SJ
8:30 AM Religious Ed
4:00 PMConfirmation Whole group - SJ
6:00 PMHS Gathering
Monday, February19ICS/Parish Offices Closed
9:00 AMNovena – CH
6:30 PMAdult Ed Class - PC
8:00 PMAA Mtg - Caf
Tuesday, February20
9:00 AMHoly Hour – CH
9:15 AMBook Discussion - PC
9:15 AMAdult Ed Class - PC
10:00 AMICS Reconciliation - IC
4:45 PMFinance Meeting - PC
6:00 PMBasketball - gym
6:30 PMHandbell Rehearsal - IC
6:30 PMCub Scout Leader Mtg - PC
7:30 PMContemporary Rehearsal - IC
Wednesday, February21
9:00 AMRosary Crusade/SJ Novena - CH
9:30 AMCantor Reh - IC
3:45 PMChildren’s Choir Reh - IC
6:00 PMBasketball - gym
6:15 PMReligious Ed
7:00 PMParish Council Mtg - PC
Thursday, February22
9:00 AMRosary Crusade - CH
3:00 PMGodspell Rehearsal - gym
6:30 PMBoy Scout Mtg - PC
6:30 PMCub Scouts - Caf
6:30 PMICS 6th Grade Science Fair - gym
6:30 PMCantor Rehearsal - IC
7:00 PMParish Choir Reh - IC
Friday, February23
9:00 AMRosary Crusade - CH
7:00 PMNA - Caf
Saturday, February24
9:00 AMRosary Crusade - CH
4:15 PMConfessions - IC
7:00 PMNA - Caf
During this season of giving, Immaculate Conception School asks for your contribution, to keep the mission of the school going strong. Any type of donation will be greatly appreciated and put to good use by marketing the school, increasing enrollment, strengthening programs and repairing the building. We need your help! Please deposit your donations in the church vestibule. If you would like to help the school in other ways, contactEmily Murphy, at ICSat 410-398-2636 or .
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The Cecil County Pregnancy Center banquet is coming up on March 22nd at 6:30pm at the Singerly Fire Hall in Elkton. The cost is $25 at the door. There will be a great meal and speakers with client stories. Please call 410-398-7888 to RSVP. You will be glad you came!
Help Wanted! Volunteer Fundraising Coordinator: The volunteer fundraising coordinator acts as a liason between the four parish fundraising committees, the parish council, and the parish staff; attends fundraiser committee meetings to provide insight and coordination with other events; coordinates scheduling in advance with committees and parish staff in regards to advertising and room reservations; drafts announcements, mailings, scheduling of speakers, etc; assists in creating and scheduling advertising notices and communications while utilizing established means of advertising as well as seeking new advertising opportunities. If you are interested, please contact Mark Guns at or 443-309-0616. Thank you!
Community Events / Information
Knights of Columbus
Bishop Becker Council 2427
443-616-5370 or
Meetings: 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month at 7:00pm at the Parish Center
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Help kick off a year to remember! Diocesan 150th anniversary to begin March 3rd.You are cordially invited to join Bishop Malooly at the Diocese of Wilmington’s Sesquicentennial Kick-off Mass on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 12:00 pm at the Cathedral of Saint Peter, Sixth and West Streets in Wilmington. Gather and pray with Catholics from across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Diocese of Wilmington by Blessed Pope Pius IX on March 3, 1868.
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Registered Redners's Shoppers: Please remember to drop OFF your Redners's Grocery Receipts to Outreach. Once we reach a certain amount of money earned through the Redner's 'Save-A-Tape' program, Outreach can use the Save-A-Tape awards to purchase needed supplies. Kindly remember each week to generously give food donations and supplies to this important Ministry. It is greatly appreciated by those in need. Please register for this program at Redners if you have not already done so. Thank you so much for your support!!
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Emergency Rotating Shelter for 2018. Immaculate Conception/St. Jude will host the shelter this year from February 5th - 19th. Many volunteers are needed to help with this mission. For more information, please contact Carol & Bill Dale, 410-287-9548 or .
The Maryland Catholic Conference has important information about new legislation under consideration by the Maryland State Legislation on its website. This website provides information on the positions taken by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Maryland Catholic Conference concerning respect for life, social and economic issues, and education. To stay informed, please consult this resource at
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Our first Rollover Raffle was a HUGE success! A HUGE thank you to the Knights of Columbus and to all who purchased Raffle tickets! Not only was our parish able to raise over $7000, but we also had 28 winners! 11 $25 winners, 9 $50 winners, 4 $75 winners, 3 $100 winners, & 1 $200 winner! Congratulations thank you!
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St. Anthony of Padua Church invites you to participate in its 2018 presentation of the Via Crucis, a live re-enactment of the last days of Christ by area schoolchildren. The one-hour performance, blending traditional music, pantomime, and the words of the Gospel is staged at 7:30 pm at St. Anthony’s Church, 905 North DuPont Street in Wilmington. Performances for 2018 are: Friday, February 23, Friday, March 2, Friday, March 9, Friday, March 16, Friday, March 23 and ending on Good Friday, March 30.Over 100 students from area elementary, high schools, and colleges make up the cast of the Via Crucis, recalling Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, his betrayal, conviction, and ending with his crucifixion and burial.There is no admission charge for the Via Crucis, although a free-will donation is welcomed. Call St. Anthony’s Rectory at302-421-3700 for reservations. No reservations are accepted for Good Friday’s presentation.