Monday, May 29th, is Memorial Day. We will observe our summer holiday schedule with just one Mass at 11:00 AM.

There will be no confessions and the church offices will be closed.

Let us prayerfully remember all those who have given their lives in defense of our country, and for the cause of freedom throughout the world, especially the members of our armed forces who have died while serving in various parts of the world.

“There is no greater love than this – to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

The St. Francis Knitters are a group of volunteers who make knitted and crocheted items for the guests of the St. Francis Breadline and others in need of a warm hat or scarf.

They welcome new members to join in the ministry, even if you can only work from home. If you are interested, please contact Edward Trochimczuk, Director of Volunteers, at 212-736-8500, Ext. 361, or etrochimczuk@stfrancisnyc.org.

The Knitters are also looking for donations of dark colored yarn which you can drop o at the reception desk in the lobby.

Jesus has has ascended to the Father and he has told us that we can do the works that he did and “will do greater ones than these.” It is interesting to hear these words at this time when we are getting ready to slow down our pace because summer is nearly here; however, these are encouraging words to remember as we live our Christian lives “in season and out of season.” Today’s Gospel tells us that Jesus prays for us: “I pray for them.” Jesus wants our day to day actions, words, and deeds to reject him and his nearness to us. Let’s remember that Jesus’ words are as valid and helpful to us today as they were to his early followers.

On Monday, we observe Memorial Day. At times it seems to get lost in the beginning of the summer season and in the sales that we see advertised. I am sure that each one of us has friends or relatives we would like to remember on this day who gave their lives during a war or conflict. We think of their families who have tried to move on with their lives without a loved one. Say a prayer for them today and say one frequently.

This summer we will being renovating the church elevator. We do not have a starting date yet, but the renovation may take 6 to 8 weeks and we won’t be able to use it during this time. The renovation will cost almost $120,000 but the elevator is 20 years old and breaks down frequently. We already have over $23,000 in donations, so we have a good start.

-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M

“Just as the commandment ‘Thou shalt not kill’ sets a clear limit in order to safeguard the value of human life, today we also have to say ‘thou shalt not’ to an economy of exclusion and inequality. Such an economy kills.

How can it be that it is not a news item when an elderly homeless person dies of exposure, but it is news when the stock market loses two points? This is a case of exclusion. Can we continue to stand by when food is thrown away while people are starving? This is a case of inequality. Today everything comes under the laws of competition and the survival of the  fittest, where the powerful feed upon the powerless. As a consequence, masses of people nd themselves excluded and marginalized without work, without possibilities, without any means of escape.”

Today’s second reading from the first letter of Peter says: “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope…” In the midst of so much that is cruel and negative in our world, we know that our faith makes a difference. We don’t go around with our heads in the sand, but we know that Jesus came into the world to save us by dying and rising from the dead. The Holy Spirit was sent to make sure that we had what we needed to show forth the love of God. As the Gospel tells us, Jesus “will not leave us orphans.” The message of these final weeks of the Easter Season will continue to reinforce this promise of Jesus. Take some time to let this message sink in.

Don’t forget the Korean Bazaar that is being held this Sunday. It is so closeby – just head east on 31st Street, cross 6th Avenue, and when you come to Broadway, you are there! Treat yourself! There are many dedicated Korean brothers and sisters waiting to have you taste their wonderful food. See you there!

In just two weeks, many of us Franciscans will be going to Siena College near Albany for our Provincial Chapter. This is held every three years and is an important gathering for us Friars. Please note that the church will be open as usual, but with a very modi ed schedule, so please check the schedule elsewhere in the bulletin or online.

Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.