June 8, 2008

Dear friends in life and in ministry . . .

At last! Sunday afternoon and I'm ready for a nap. This is the weekend of our giant parish yard sale which means lots of boxes to lug in the sweltering heat - including someone's 1000 + vinyl LP collection. Whew!

Note to readers under 40:
Vinyl LPs we popular in the 60s and early 70s for recorded music. The predated 8 tracks and were a lot like CDs but are much bigger in circumference. They are now used primarily by Hip Hop artists to make those scratching sounds.

I did the formerly unthinkable three times this week. I took the bus to work. $4.12 per gallon gas prices have put our family finances in a squeeze. The 44 mile round trip between Corning and Bath now cost about $8. Because I've got grey hair, I can ride the bus for 50 cents each way. Fortunately, a Fr. Peter's car is available for hospital visits etc. and I have a place to stay in the rectory on nights where it just makes sense to sleep over.

Next week, Pat will begin her nine week season as house manager at Catholic House at the Chautauqua Institution. I'm taking a week's vacation (including a retreat day) at Chautauqua before returning for parish work and several summer weddings. Then I'll be joining her whenever possible throughout the summer. For Pat and I, next week officially marks the beginning of Summer.

My column this week includes a popular email recently sent to me by a parishioner. It's entitled "Charles Schultz Philosophy."

God's blessings on you, on all you love, and on all who love you.

Deacon Ray

This week's Column: June 8, 2008 - Charles Schultz Philosophy

As you may know, parishioner Todd Martin has been involved in scouting in our parish and community for many years. For several years he was the chair of our Building and Grounds Committee and now serves our community as a member of the Bath/Haverling Central School District Board of Education. Todd recently sent me the following via e-mail.

Charles Schultz was a cartoonist whose Peanuts characters always seemed to provide inspiration to me, especially during the “Charlie Brown” moments of life. There was even a popular book some years back entitled “The Gospel According to Peanuts.” Here is his philosophy on people who deserve our admiration and gratitude.

Charles Schultz Philosophy

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the "Peanuts" comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just keep reading and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.

2. Name the last five winners of the Heisman trophy.

3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America Pageant.

4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.

5. Name the last Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.

6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?
The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Now, See how you do on this quiz . . .

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.

2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.

3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.

4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.

5. Think of five people with whom you enjoy spending time.

Easier?

The Lesson:
The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care.

"Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia "
-Charles Schultz

Trash and Treasure
It’s Trash and Treasure Weekend at St. Mary’s. Sincere thanks on behalf of the parish to all who donated treasures to make this major fund-raiser successful. Special thanks to Paula Gardner who chaired this event with the expertise of John Cardona and our volunteer markers, set up crew and sales folks.

St. Mary’s UnFair “Early Bird”
Next Sunday we’ll have our St. Mary’s UnFair “Early Bird Drawing” for a Recliner donated by Fagan’s Furniture. Be sure and get your UnFair donation to the parish office by Sunday at 10:30 a.m. to be eligible for this drawing. The Recliner winner will also remain eligible for our grand prize drawings for $1000 in Gas or Food. That drawing will take place on Sunday, July 13 following the 9:00 a.m. Mass.

Graduate’s Breakfast
Next Sunday at the 9:00 a.m. Mass we’ll bless our graduating seniors then celebrate with them at a Pancake breakfast. Father’s will also be guests of honor.

Have a good week. Serve one another well.

Deacon Ray

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Bulletin: June 8th, 2008