Parish News
Oct. 30 – Observance Of All Souls Day
In an annual St. Joseph’s tradition, the parish gathered for the annual blessing of graves to remember departed friends and family. A number of parishioners joined Fr. Michal in the procession through the grounds despite snow from an early season storm blanketing the cemetary.
Nov. 1 – Solemnity of All Saints, Pot Luck Supper
A special Mass of the solemnity was held, followed by a time for fellowship as the parish family came together following the traditional All Saints service for a pot-luck supper.
Dec. 3 – Christmas Craft Fair
The annual event organized and run by the Squezello family along with some dedicated helpers was once again a huge success. The annual fair has become one of the best fund-raisers of the year.
Dec. 14 – The Lord’s Kitchen
Every six weeks St Joseph’s volunteers step up and prepare and serve a hot meal to the homeless at Christ Church hall on Main Street in Stratford as a way of participating with the Stratford Clergy Association. Close to 100 meals were served as St. Joseph’s took its turn in the program started by the Stratford Clergy Association.
Dec. 15 – Advent Penitential Service
St. Joseph’s gathered as a parish community to focus on the spiritual preparation for Christmas. In a prayerful and reflective atmosphere. During the special service Fr. Michal called those in attendance to look into their inner selves. After confessing of sins to the Merciful and Loving God, we rejoice in the gift of a Sacramental absolution. Let us hope to build on that!
Christmas 2011
Our three masses combined to have a wonderful turnouts at each. The attendance for Midnight Mass was especially a strong, drawing a wonderful group of prayerful parishioners.
Jan. 8 – Annual Christmas Dinner
In the continuance of a special parish tradition, Hodur Hall was filled for the annual parish Christmas dinner. Parish members and guests alike enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by the members of the Ladies’ Society and, of course, the youngest members were treated to the annual visit from Santa Claus.
Jan. 15 – Martin Luther King Service
St. Joseph’s had the privilege of hosting clergy and guests from other churches in Stratford for a special Martin Luther King Jr. interdenominational prayer service. The church was filled for a meaningful service that included the newly installed Bishop of the Eastern Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Paul Sobiechowski, who traveled with his wife from Manchester, N.H., to attend.
Just a friendly thank you to all of the volunteers who give of their time to help out at these events. None of these events could run smoothly, or at all, without your help.