Saint Ephrem
Catholic CHURCH

Our weekly bulletin is called The Harp. By exploring THIS link, you can read the current as well as many past editions!
 

All parish events canceled including Mass.
Confessions have been canceled.
Church will remained closed until April 13th

Since no public Holy Masses are being celebrated at this time, an individual does not commit any sin by not attending Mass (CCC 2181 & 2183). However, the faithful are encouraged to watch Mass on TV, radio, or through other media. Even though there is no obligation to attend Mass under these circumstances, following online Mass helps us to listen to the Word of God, focus on prayer, and reflect about our faith. 

Food Pantry will be open.

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Dear Parishioner,
     I pray that you all are doing well and staying safe and healthy. I am fine myself and keeping busy. It has become clear to me that closing the church during the “Stay Safe, Stay Home” directive is the right action to take to protect everyone during this unprecedented time.  Starting Saturday the 28^th, St. Ephrem will remain closed until April 13^thand assess then what direction to take.  This decision has not been taken lightly.  I have prayed much over this, spoken with other priests, and talked with people who work in the hospitals.  A priest chaplain gave a very sobering report of what is actually taking place in the hospitals and how remaining safe can truly save the lives of many others.  In light of this, together with news reports, and what I feel Jesus has put on my heart, I believe closing the doors is best for parishioners, volunteers, staff, and the wider community.
     Please know that I am praying for you all daily before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.  Mass, Liturgy of the Hours, Rosaries, reading, playing music, and silent prayers are being done before Jesus in the Tabernacle.  Please send me your prayer requests and names of people you want me to pray for at frcraig@stephrems.org.  I will bring all your prayer requests before the Lord and ask the Blessed Mother to pray for them as well.  Feel free to email me, or call if you would like to have a phone conversation and pray over the phone 586-264-1230.  Also, for those who are in dire need of Confession, we can arrange something.
     Mark, with a few chosen volunteers, has agreed to keep the food pantry open as the need is great.  Please pray for them so that they all remain safe and healthy.  If you wish to donate food you can bring your donations to the Activity Center ONLY on Wednesdays from 11:00am-Noon.  Please do not leave food outside at other times.  Dollar Tree gift cards are also a great help and can be placed through the mail slot on the green door located on the rectory garage.
     Thank you so incredibly much for your patience and understanding.  And thank you very much for all those who have continued to donate to the church. This allows us to remain viable as a parish.
     In some way all of us are feeling the effects of Covid-19 and this world needs our love and prayers.  I love you and it hurts to know you hurt.  I want what is best for you and I am giving everything I got to do what I believe is God’s will in this situation.  We are together in this.  Please continue to pray for each other, pray for the church, pray for those on the front lines, and pray for those who have become sick.  Prayer is the most powerful aid we have in this.  Know of my continued prayers for you.
 
In Christ through Mary,
Fr. Craig

Please visit AOD.org for a complete list of TV and online Masses.

Masses Resume- tentative
April 16 – Community Supper – 5:00-6:30pm (GR)
April 27 – Religious Education Classes begin in Church with Adoration – 6:30pm
                   1^st Communion practice (with parents) 
6:30pm – Special Needs closing Mass – 6:30pm
 
May
May 2 – Rosary Making Group – 10:00am (GR)
May 3 – 1^st Communions and May Crowning at 11:00am Mass (Church)
               K of C Living Rosary – 3:00pm
May 8 – Family Movie Night – 6:00pm (GR)
May 11 – Religious Education Closing Mass – 6:30pm (Church)
May 14 – Community Supper – 5:00-6:30pm (GR)
May 25 – Parish office closed (Memorial Day)
 
June
June 6 – Rosary Making Group – 10:00am (GR)
June 11 – Community Supper – 5:00-6:30pm (GR)
June 13 – Parish Picnic – 1:00-7:00pm
June 14 – Corpus Christi procession after the 11:00am Mass
June 22-26 – Vacation Bible School 
June 28 – Sewing Sunday – 1:00-4:00pm (GR)

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These are the homilies of our pastor Fr. Craig Giera.  Grab some earbuds and listen while you're at home, in the car, or anywhere you please.  Send them to friends and Unleash the Gospel!