MORE GOOD NEWS

St. Mary of Mount Carmel / Blessed Sacrament is renowned around the region and diocese — and beyond — for its wonderful and meaningful liturgies, beautiful music, an energetic congregation and faith-filled parishioners. Beyond its religious foundation, however, there is another important aspect — the parish’s social community.

In full disclosure for those who don’t know, Vicki Perritano is the mother of the editor of this magazine, who interviewed her for this article. This is the 53rd edition of “More Good News,” and we felt after 13 years of publication it was time to feature one of the matriarchs of the parish. Vicki is 95 years old, still attends Mass and volunteered over the years in many parish ministries.

Steve Surace and Gina Reale met at a college event. Their friendship grew and turned into love. They raised two girls and now have a granddaughter. They built careers together and give back to the community — and to the parish they love.

In Catholic tradition, Lent (Quaresima in Italian) is a time for prayer, fasting and almsgiving. So, before the Lenten season begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5, Christians around the world will take time to party in diverse ways.

Last Updated on March 1, 2025 by Editor By FATHER JIM CESTA The social dimension of being a Catholic companion of the Lord Jesus starts with remembering that only three of the Ten Commandments deal with our relationship with God — the other seven have us consider our social relationship with other people. Sometimes, good […]

Father Jim Cesta celebrated his 50th anniversary of his priesthood earlier this year. He has spent the last 15 years as pastor of our parish. Most parishioners only know Father Jim as the priest who celebrates Sunday Mass, has a sense of humor and preaches great homilies. So, we decided to learn more about the man behind the collar. We sat down last month in the sunroom of the rectory to learn more.

Last Updated on November 8, 2024 by Editor Over the years, Joe has volunteered in the Confirmation program, worked with engaged couples and conducted wedding rehearsals, was president of the Social Committee and continues to be active member of this group, and currently is an altar server for funerals and Sunday Mass, lector and a […]

Rosemarie Chiffy, 98, gave the following reflection on her relationship with the Blessed Mother during the Nine Week Novena in Honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

Over the last two years, the parishioners of St. Mary of Mount Carmel / Blessed Sacrament Parish have been reacquainting themselves with an organization that was born on its campus some 40 years ago.

This issue of “More Good News,” our parish quarterly newsletter, takes some space to offer an insight into some of the things that make me — Father Jim — as much a unique person as you, or any one of us. Each person enjoys and clings to hobbies, talents, interests and activities that make us […]