Our Lady of Refuge

-Due to low mass attendance, our Sundays at 6 mass will no longer be provided after October 24, 2021.

-Notarization services are once again available. Services are $2 per signature. You can make an appointment for notary services by calling the rectory office at 718-434-2090. Please bring ID

-The Interfaith Coalition has started a book club. The discussions give us the opportunity for conversation about our religious traditions, as well as questions such as ethnicity, race, assimilation and cultural identity. The next book is "Born A Crime" by Trevor Noah. Please contact Yvette Pomeranz of Temple B'ShERT (yphomecrest@yahoo.com). She will send you the zoom link. If you have any questions, you can contact Sr. Celia (celia.deutsch@gmail.com). You can obtain the book at the public library, as well as book stores, and online distributors.

OCTOBER 17, 2021 — TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
IS 53:10-11; PS 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22; HEB 4:14-16; MK 10:35-45 OR 10:42-45
 
Our Gospel today conveys how we are called to imitate Jesus through humility and service. 

We are reminded that the Son of God became man and surrendered His life into the hands of men so that we might be saved. The life of Jesus was centered around His Father’s mission and the service of mankind. And this is how we ought to live — in imitation of Christ. 

James and John wanted to ensure they had a spot in heaven with Jesus. They were concerned about themselves in that moment — “Grant that in your glory we may sit one at your right and the other at your left.” 

Jesus quickly reminded them, “whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all.”

Our culture constantly encourages us to do what we can to get ahead in this world, to do what feels good, no matter the effects — that power, authority, and wealth should be our goals in life. 

Our faith offers us something different and fulfilling — a life of humility and service. As Christian stewards, we are called to live our lives in service of God and neighbor, just as Jesus did. Our life is not about us. It is about fulfilling God’s glorious plan for each one of us. 

So, we must ask ourselves, are we living out God’s plan for our lives? Is my life centered on Christ and those around me or is it centered on me?  

It can be difficult to know God’s plan for our entire life. He sees the whole picture — we only see the now. All we can do is seek Him daily. If each day is centered on Him, then our entire lives will become the work of Jesus. 

Religious Education/Faith Formation for 2021- 2022
In person Registration begins What to bring to registration Original and copy of Baptism Certificate If child 7 years and older is not baptized (original and copy of Birth Certificate) First Holy Communion Certificate if child has already received First Communion Who: New & Returning students: K, Grade 1 through High School
When: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 1-4pm
Where: Rectory office (use Foster Ave entrance) Registration Fee Registration fee $65 Sacrament donation is not included.
Who: New & Returning students: K, Grade 1 through High School When: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 1-4pm Saturday 10-1pm
Where: Rectory office (use Foster Ave entrance) If you have any questions or need assistance please contact the program director, Ms Baptiste 718-974-5248 / OLR1087@gmail.com.