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.
‘Being Church’ is more than going to church
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 and devout Catholic folks really fall into believing […]
Pat Morrissey is the 2024 Immaculata Award recipient
Patrick Morrissey with his wife, Rosemary, and their grandchildren in 2022. Pat Morrissey is the 2024 recipient of the diocese’s Immaculata Award from our parish. He received the award Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Syracuse. The Immaculata Award honors the lay men and women who volunteer in their parishes […]
Behind the collar: Father Jim discusses his life, influences, priesthood
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.
Joe Siniscarco keeps — and lives — his Catholic faith
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 eucharistic minister. He still continues to cook for […]
Re Chiffy shares her experiences with Blessed Mother
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.
Coro Italiano rises to a new crescendo
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.
Our individual interests wrapped in our faith
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 […]
Parish festival in review: Views photos, watch video
The parish’s annual Italian Festival began Friday, July 19, under beautiful blue skies. People started filling the parish grounds early, many heading for the food tent for sausage and peppers, meatball subs, pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken and beef skewers and much more. Of course, pizza fritta was a big hit. The annual Walk for […]
Altar servers learn the value of helping parish
ABOVE: Those who become altar servers are part of an important ministry in our parish. For most, it’s the child’s first chance to volunteer and serve the church and grow in their faith. Most youngsters remain servers through their Confirmation. Many older servers return for special occasions such as Holy Week, Easter Vigil and Christmas. […]