Hello from Pennsylvania!
Image: Our group in front of Sights & Sounds Theater
Over the past two days, I’ve been on the parish bus trip with about 40 folks to Lancaster County, PA. This trip (advertised several months ago) centered around the famous Sight & Sound production of Noah, and it’s been a fantastic experience! We left bright and early Wednesday morning and are currently on our way back to Acushnet.
The trip was organized through White Star Tours and included a number of experiences in Amish Country, which I had never visited before. On Wednesday evening, we enjoyed dinner at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, the largest buffet in America! With what felt like a mile long line of food and apparently over 7,000 guests served daily, it was certainly an experience to remember. 😂
Thursday morning brought a tour of Amish life and farms. I was struck by the Amish people’s simplicity, their strong family bonds (often with multiple generations living on one property), hard work (in farming and trades), and deep dedication to God. They strictly observe Sunday as a day of rest and worship. There was something refreshing about witnessing a community largely detached from modern distractions and committed to wholesome, faith filled living.
The trip was organized through White Star Tours and included a number of experiences in Amish Country, which I had never visited before. On Wednesday evening, we enjoyed dinner at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, the largest buffet in America! With what felt like a mile long line of food and apparently over 7,000 guests served daily, it was certainly an experience to remember. 😂
Thursday morning brought a tour of Amish life and farms. I was struck by the Amish people’s simplicity, their strong family bonds (often with multiple generations living on one property), hard work (in farming and trades), and deep dedication to God. They strictly observe Sunday as a day of rest and worship. There was something refreshing about witnessing a community largely detached from modern distractions and committed to wholesome, faith filled living.
Image: Noah set from sight-sound.com
Yesterday afternoon, we attended Noah at the Sight & Sound Theatre (which seats 2,000 people and hosts two shows a day!). The production (celebrating it's 30th anniversary) is more than entertainment (though the live animals were quite entertaining) but an apostolate sharing the Christian message. I was really moved by the rich biblical content of the script and especially how beautifully they wove New Testament themes into the story. The play powerfully conveyed our Catholic faith: the Church as the ark of salvation, fidelity to God amid trials, forgiveness, and the call to live righteously in a fallen world. At the end, guests were even invited, with staff available, to come forward to be prayed with or to give their lives to Jesus Christ. It was uplifting and inspiring.
Yesterday evening, we had dinner in the home of a young Amish couple with six children. They host bus tour groups once a week on their small dairy farm/homestead, offering a delicious homecooked meal and warm hospitality. Their family reminded me of many large Catholic families I’ve met, especially in the Midwest, who live with deep faith and an intentional focus on God and family. (After the meal, they led us in singing "How Great Thou Art" - a daily tradition, they told us!)
This morning we visited a horse farm before beginning the long journey home. Please say a prayer for our safe arrival this evening!
Special thanks to Mary Cardoza for having the idea for this trip and organizing it along with the help of her husband Corey and Andrea Oliver!
Yesterday afternoon, we attended Noah at the Sight & Sound Theatre (which seats 2,000 people and hosts two shows a day!). The production (celebrating it's 30th anniversary) is more than entertainment (though the live animals were quite entertaining) but an apostolate sharing the Christian message. I was really moved by the rich biblical content of the script and especially how beautifully they wove New Testament themes into the story. The play powerfully conveyed our Catholic faith: the Church as the ark of salvation, fidelity to God amid trials, forgiveness, and the call to live righteously in a fallen world. At the end, guests were even invited, with staff available, to come forward to be prayed with or to give their lives to Jesus Christ. It was uplifting and inspiring.
Yesterday evening, we had dinner in the home of a young Amish couple with six children. They host bus tour groups once a week on their small dairy farm/homestead, offering a delicious homecooked meal and warm hospitality. Their family reminded me of many large Catholic families I’ve met, especially in the Midwest, who live with deep faith and an intentional focus on God and family. (After the meal, they led us in singing "How Great Thou Art" - a daily tradition, they told us!)
This morning we visited a horse farm before beginning the long journey home. Please say a prayer for our safe arrival this evening!
Special thanks to Mary Cardoza for having the idea for this trip and organizing it along with the help of her husband Corey and Andrea Oliver!
Starting this Wednesday - Parish Reading of 33 Days to Eucharistic Glory
This Wednesday, May 21, we begin a 33-day Eucharistic pilgrimage leading up to the Feast of Corpus Christi on June 22. This is not just another book or parish program. It’s a guide for a spiritual journey that can change your life and renew the Church.
I encourage everyone to join us in reading 33 Days to Eucharistic Glory by Matthew Kelly. You can read on your own, with family, or in small groups. It takes only about 15 minutes a day, and if you miss a day or two, it’s easy to catch up. We will walk together, day by day, preparing our hearts for a deeper love of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Please take a moment this weekend to listen to the audio introduction linked below. It will help you understand the motivation and the power behind this journey and the explosion of grace being offered to you and the Church. This is a call from the Lord to draw closer to Him.
This pilgrimage is for everyone. Whether you go to daily Mass, only occasionally attend on Sundays, or have been away from the Church for a while. No matter where you are in your relationship with Jesus, He is inviting you into something deeper. Please spread the word. Invite a friend. Encourage someone to start with you. The Lord is doing something beautiful in our parish and I want you to be part of it.
New Eucharistic Miracle Confirmed This Week!
Exciting news this week - The Vatican has confirmed the miraculous appearance of Christ’s face on a consecrated host during a Mass in the Archdiocese of Thalassery, India, 12 years after the occurrence.
School May Crowning on Tuesday
On Tuesday, our school community gathered for the May Crowning of Our Lady following the 9:00am Mass. Fittingly, it was also the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, marking 108 years since her first apparition to the shepherd children in Portugal.
During the homily, I shared the story of those apparitions and quoted President Ronald Reagan, who once told the Portuguese Assembly that the prayers of the three children at Fatima were more powerful than all the military might of the United States. I also recounted the attempted assassination of St. John Paul II on May 13, 1981, and how he credited Our Lady of Fatima for his miraculous survival.
If you’ve never heard the story, I encourage you to learn more below:
During the homily, I shared the story of those apparitions and quoted President Ronald Reagan, who once told the Portuguese Assembly that the prayers of the three children at Fatima were more powerful than all the military might of the United States. I also recounted the attempted assassination of St. John Paul II on May 13, 1981, and how he credited Our Lady of Fatima for his miraculous survival.
If you’ve never heard the story, I encourage you to learn more below:
Pope St. Pius X Youth Award
This past Monday, the annual diocesan Pope St. Pius X Youth Awards were held at the Cathedral. Each year, Bishop da Cunha recognizes young people from across the diocese for their dedication to God and His Church.
The 2025 recipient from St. Francis Xavier is Eamon Martin. Eamon, son of parishioners Phil and Colleen Martin, is a graduate of SFX School and currently a senior at Bishop Stang. He has been a faithful altar boy and MC since his First Holy Communion and has remained deeply involved in our parish community over the years.
Eamon is a young man of strong faith and character. He has been active in our high school youth group, is a regular participant in our parish adoration program, and serves as a student leader and peer minister at Bishop Stang. This fall, he will be attending Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio.
Please join me in congratulating Eamon and thanking him for his joyful and faithful witness!
The 2025 recipient from St. Francis Xavier is Eamon Martin. Eamon, son of parishioners Phil and Colleen Martin, is a graduate of SFX School and currently a senior at Bishop Stang. He has been a faithful altar boy and MC since his First Holy Communion and has remained deeply involved in our parish community over the years.
Eamon is a young man of strong faith and character. He has been active in our high school youth group, is a regular participant in our parish adoration program, and serves as a student leader and peer minister at Bishop Stang. This fall, he will be attending Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio.
Please join me in congratulating Eamon and thanking him for his joyful and faithful witness!
Celebrating Pope Leo XIV at School
On Monday afternoon, we held a special assembly at the school to celebrate the historic election of Pope Leo. Our very own “Pope Leo” made a grand entrance in his popemobile, assisted by two “cardinals” (their official Latin names being Cardinal Declanus and Cardinal Samuelis), and was met with thunderous applause from the students!
(Fun fact: the pope costume was generously loaned by Eamon Martin’s family - Eamon actually wore it back in 2013 when Pope Francis was elected!)
After the grand entrance, the students enjoyed a fun trivia game created by Mrs. Rogers with interesting facts about our new Holy Father.
There’s a lot of excitement and affection at SFX school for the first American pope, especially since he attended a parochial school just like ours!
Thank you for your support of our school. Who knows, maybe we’re currently educating a future pope!
Looking for deeper insight into this weekend’s readings? Check out this reflection from my favorite biblical scholar, Dr. John Bergsma
Adorers Needed!!
We are in need of adorers for the following hours:
- Wednesdays 4:30 PM-5:30 PM
- Fridays 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
If you are interested in spending an hour with the Lord, please call or text Mary Cardoza at 774-526-1444 or speak with Fr. Ryan.
In your kindness please pray for the repose of the souls of the following individuals:
Ida Andrade passed away on May 12, 2025. She was predeceased by her husband, James F. Andrade. Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 18th from 2-4pm at the Boulevard Funeral Home. Her Funeral Mass will be on Monday, May 19th at 10:30am at St. Francis Xavier. Click here for her obituary.
The Memorial Mass for Norbert J. Fredette, of High Point, NC, formerly of New Bedford, who passed away March 7, 2025, will be held this Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 at 10AM at SFX.
Janet Bouchard, wife of the late SFX parishioner, Marc Bouchard, passed away. Her service will held at St. Andrew's Episcopal church sometime next week. Services are in the care of Saunders Dwyer Funeral Home. I could not find an obituary.
First Week of the Pontificate of Pope Leo XIV
A few notes about this first week:
First, the election of Pope Leo is creating a lot of buzz and curiosity, even among those who may not have been connected to the Church in a long time. It’s a great opportunity to start conversations about the faith with family members, friends, or coworkers who may be open to talking about it.
This weekend, we’ll have Pope Leo prayer cards available at the doors of the church. Consider taking one not just for yourself, but also for someone in your life who’s been away from the Church. It could be the perfect moment to ask, “What do you think of the new pope?” and open a meaningful door.
Second, the USCCB has posted a 2012 interview with then Fr. Robert Prevost on the topic of evangelization. Though recorded over a decade ago, his insights are still very relevant today and well worth a listen.
This weekend, we’ll have Pope Leo prayer cards available at the doors of the church. Consider taking one not just for yourself, but also for someone in your life who’s been away from the Church. It could be the perfect moment to ask, “What do you think of the new pope?” and open a meaningful door.
Second, the USCCB has posted a 2012 interview with then Fr. Robert Prevost on the topic of evangelization. Though recorded over a decade ago, his insights are still very relevant today and well worth a listen.
Third - Pope Leo is now on social media! Be sure to follow his official accounts:
With all the attention surrounding Pope Leo, there are already some false or AI generated statements circulating online that are being wrongly attributed to him.
If you want to be sure you're reading his actual words, you can find his official speeches and statements updated daily here:
If you want to be sure you're reading his actual words, you can find his official speeches and statements updated daily here:
Inspiring Words about American Catholicism from Catholic Speaker Matt Fradd
Biannual Priest Convocation this week
This Tuesday, I attended one of our biannual diocesan priest formation days, held at St. John Neumann Church in East Freetown. It was a great opportunity to reconnect with my brother priests and reflect together on the theme of parish renewal.
The presentations were given by two members of our diocesan staff: David Carvalho, Secretary for the New Evangelization, and Deacon Chris Paul, Director of Adult & Child Discipleship (and husband of our very own bookkeeper here at SFX, Michelle). They both did a fantastic job sharing the latest research and practical strategies from around the Church on how to bring new life to parish communities. It gave me a lot to reflect on.
The presentations were given by two members of our diocesan staff: David Carvalho, Secretary for the New Evangelization, and Deacon Chris Paul, Director of Adult & Child Discipleship (and husband of our very own bookkeeper here at SFX, Michelle). They both did a fantastic job sharing the latest research and practical strategies from around the Church on how to bring new life to parish communities. It gave me a lot to reflect on.
These formation days are actually organized by a committee chaired by none other than my venerable predecessor, Fr. Williams! He is doing well at Holy Name in Fall River and wanted me to pass along his greetings.
Reminder: The Renovation Project Has Begun!
Work has officially begun on our renovation project in preparation for the 100th anniversary of our church this September!
Last week, the work crew began at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in New Bedford, dismantling the high altar and preparing everything for restoration. Each of the altars (the high altar, main altar, and two side altars) will be repainted and restored over the next couple of weeks before being transported here to SFX.
Here’s a reminder of the work being completed this summer:
Last week, the work crew began at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in New Bedford, dismantling the high altar and preparing everything for restoration. Each of the altars (the high altar, main altar, and two side altars) will be repainted and restored over the next couple of weeks before being transported here to SFX.
Here’s a reminder of the work being completed this summer:
- Installation of the matching high altar, main altar, and two side altars from OLPH (entrance to the Adoration chapel will shift to the side hallway)
- New flooring in the sanctuary
- Decorative painting and stenciling of the sanctuary walls
- Full ceiling painting in the traditional night-sky style
- Removal of aisle carpeting and restoration of the original hardwood floors in the church
- Improved lighting
- Conversion of the left-side closet in the entryway into a restroom
- Installation of a glass partition in the entryway for temperature and sound control
Important Updates for June and the Summer:
Church Closing Date: The church will close on Monday, June 9th, so work can begin here. This allows for the 8th Grade Graduation Mass to be held in the church on Sunday, June 8th. We expect the church to be closed through August, with everything completed in time for our 100th Anniversary on September 13th.
Weekend Masses: Starting June 14th–15th, all weekend Masses (Saturday 4:00pm, Sunday 8:00am & 10:30am) will be held in the school gym. I’m looking forward to seeing families gather afterward by the jungle gym. I’m also hoping we can have coffee and donuts on the blacktop after Sunday Masses.
Weekday Masses (June 9–17): While school is still in session and the gym is unavailable during the day, weekday Mass will take place in the hospitality room downstairs. It has air conditioning and may be comfortable enough to continue using for weekday Masses over the summer. I’ll reevaluate after June 17th.
Adoration Chapel: Starting June 9th, the current Adoration Chapel will no longer be accessible. We plan to move Adoration temporarily to the elevator room, where it began back in 2006. We hope to maintain the same hours. More details to follow.
Funerals & Baptisms: If your family is planning a funeral or baptism this summer, we can either host it in the school gym or make arrangements with a neighboring parish.
Thank you for your generous support that has brought us to this exciting moment! I’ll continue to keep you informed as we approach the start of construction here. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Church Closing Date: The church will close on Monday, June 9th, so work can begin here. This allows for the 8th Grade Graduation Mass to be held in the church on Sunday, June 8th. We expect the church to be closed through August, with everything completed in time for our 100th Anniversary on September 13th.
Weekend Masses: Starting June 14th–15th, all weekend Masses (Saturday 4:00pm, Sunday 8:00am & 10:30am) will be held in the school gym. I’m looking forward to seeing families gather afterward by the jungle gym. I’m also hoping we can have coffee and donuts on the blacktop after Sunday Masses.
Weekday Masses (June 9–17): While school is still in session and the gym is unavailable during the day, weekday Mass will take place in the hospitality room downstairs. It has air conditioning and may be comfortable enough to continue using for weekday Masses over the summer. I’ll reevaluate after June 17th.
Adoration Chapel: Starting June 9th, the current Adoration Chapel will no longer be accessible. We plan to move Adoration temporarily to the elevator room, where it began back in 2006. We hope to maintain the same hours. More details to follow.
Funerals & Baptisms: If your family is planning a funeral or baptism this summer, we can either host it in the school gym or make arrangements with a neighboring parish.
Thank you for your generous support that has brought us to this exciting moment! I’ll continue to keep you informed as we approach the start of construction here. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
One final note: the renovation crew is based out of state and will be staying in the area Monday through Friday while the work is underway. To help keep costs down, they’ve asked if anyone might know of rental lodging options that could be available for weeknights this summer. If you have any leads or suggestions, feel free to reach out.
Still a Few Spots Left in Our Pre-K 4 Program!
2025 Catholic Appeal
May 1 - June 30
“Hope Lights the Way” - The 84th Annual Catholic Appeal began May 1. Since 1942, the Appeal has helped people in all phases of life – from children, to youth, to parents, to the elderly. Gifts to the Catholic Appeal sustain the work of our Diocese, including numerous agencies, programs, and ministries providing food and shelter, educating children and adults, and meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of thousands. We encourage you to support the Appeal as generously as you can. You can make a one-time gift or a pledge with convenient payments throughout the year. You can give by mail, use a contribution card located in church, or make your gift or pledge online at the link below.
Women's Discernment Retreat with the Maronite Sisters (June 6-8)
St. Anthony's in NB
Mass Times
Sunday: 8:00 AM | 10:30 AM
Saturday Vigil: 4:00 PM
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM
Sunday: 8:00 AM | 10:30 AM
Saturday Vigil: 4:00 PM
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM
First Friday: 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Adoration Times
Monday-Friday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-8:30pm
Saturday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-2:45pm
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-8:30pm
Saturday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-2:45pm
Confession Times
Monday: 5:30–6:30 PM
Saturday: 9:30–10:00 AM | 3:00–3:45 PM
Monday: 5:30–6:30 PM
Saturday: 9:30–10:00 AM | 3:00–3:45 PM
First Friday: 6:45–7:15 PM
Anytime by Appointment
To add someone to this weekly newsletter, they can either text the word ACUSHNET to 84576 or sign up at sfxparish.flocknote.com.