Our Lady of Refuge

-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.

-Please Save the Date, Monday, October 11, 2021 (Indigenous People's Day). The Interfaith Coalition of Brooklyn is organizing a day trip and tour. The tour will be free of charge. We will travel via public transportation. We'll have more information for you next week. We hope you can join us.

-Save the Date. Leaders and future leaders are invited to attend a Leadership Retreat at the Immaculate Conception Seminary, Huntington, Friday, October 22 to Sunday, October 24, 2021.Approximate accommodation fees: Single rooms $250 and Two Persons $300.Transportation will be by bus or carpooling. Details to follow.

-Are you a child who has received First Holy Communion and looking for a way to actively participate at Mass? If yes, become an altar server. Altar servers provide an important service to our parish community during Mass by assisting the Priest. For more information, children and parents, please attend our practice on Saturday, October 2nd, 2021 at 3:30pm in the Church.

-Calling all pet owners, on Monday, October 4th, our parish will be hosting a blessing of the pets in our church parking lot (E. 21 St -between Farragut and Foster Ave.). The evening's events will begin at 6:00pm

Stewardship Bulletin Reflection
SEPTEMBER 26, 2021 — TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
NM 11:25-29; PS 19:8, 10, 12-13, 14; JAS 5:1-6; MK 9:38-43, 45, 47-48
 
In our readings this week, Eldad, Medad, and the man driving out demons were all doing the work of God. They had been entrusted with a gift and used it to glorify the Lord. Joshua and John should have responded in joy and appreciation for another’s gifts and talents. 
 
We often look at another’s strengths as our weakness whether it be in parish life, in the workforce, or even in our own families. 
 
Jesus is calling us to cut out those sinful thoughts and attitudes from our lives. The next time we witness someone being a good steward of God’s gifts — rejoice! And continue to examine how you are using your gifts and talents to ensure you are being a good steward of what God has entrusted to you. 
 
We do not want to end up like the rich in our Second Reading from St. James. They stored up their riches to the point where they withheld wages from their workers! They clenched tightly to the pleasures and luxuries that the world offers and put it in front of both God and their neighbor. They misused the gifts God bestowed on them. 
 
We must keep this in perspective as we journey on our path as Christian stewards. We do not live for this life, but for the next. 
 
He has given us time every day, countless talents, and numerous treasures. Are we using them for His glory?
 
This week when we witness other people in our lives using the gifts God has given to them, instead of becoming jealous or critical, say a prayer of thanksgiving and take time to reflect on what God has gifted you and how you can offer it to Him for His glory.
 
— Stewardship Reflections by Catholic Stewardship Consultants

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.