Renovation Updates – First Week
I’m very happy to share that a lot of progress has already been made in just the first few days since the church was closed for renovation.
Demolition began Monday on the sanctuary floor platform.
Demolition began Monday on the sanctuary floor platform.
By midweek, the entire sanctuary platform (which had been added in one of the renovations after the 70s) had been removed.
Beneath the surface, we uncovered the blue and white vinyl tile likely laid in the 1950s or 60s. This tile had covered the original hardwood floors which you can see in the center of the sanctuary. That square of exposed hardwood in the center is where the predella (altar platform) for the original SFX high altar was.
All pews and furnishings were wrapped and secured to protect them during construction and painting. Thanks to the help of several parishioners who unbolted the pews, the crew was able to move them quickly, saving a lot of time.
The old wood paneling was removed from the sanctuary walls.
This paneling (the same as the current wainscot), installed during the 1970s renovation and later faux-painted to resemble marble, was hiding the original sanctuary walls, which as you can see were a light blue. You can also see in green the outline of the former high altar, removed during the 70s renovation.
New drywall is already being installed in preparation for the decorative painting and stenciling that will soon transform the sanctuary. In addition, two openings have been cut into the back wall to allow access to the inside of the reredos, creating additional storage space in the sacristy.
It’s been a great relief to finally reach this point and see the work begin. Thank you for your prayers and support. I’ll continue to keep you updated as progress continues.
Reminder: Please do not enter the church while the work is ongoing. It is an active construction zone, and we want to ensure everyone’s safety and avoid disrupting the crew.
Thank you for your continued support, and if you'd like to contribute to the renovation, you can donate here:
Thank you for your continued support, and if you'd like to contribute to the renovation, you can donate here:
Thank You to the Moving Crew!
I was so grateful, and honestly overwhelmed, by the amazing turnout last Sunday evening to help clear out the church. As soon as graduation ended, we rushed in and got to work. Within minutes, it sounded like ten drill guns buzzing at once, taking out every pew screw in record time.
One parishioner joked that we should start a parish moving company based on how skilled we apparently are at dismantling and transport! Another even brought his work box truck, which made moving the larger pieces down to the school incredibly smooth.
Thanks to everyone’s generosity and teamwork, we were able to clear out nearly everything in under an hour. Here’s a photo of just part of the crew:
One parishioner joked that we should start a parish moving company based on how skilled we apparently are at dismantling and transport! Another even brought his work box truck, which made moving the larger pieces down to the school incredibly smooth.
Thanks to everyone’s generosity and teamwork, we were able to clear out nearly everything in under an hour. Here’s a photo of just part of the crew:
A Few FYIs for This Weekend
- Masses will be held in the school gym while the church is under renovation.
- Missalettes and pew cards will be available on a table as you enter. Please feel free to pick one up for Mass and return it to the table afterward so they stay organized and clean for the next Mass.
- Restrooms are located off the gym kitchen. When you enter the kitchen, they’ll be on your right. Please do not enter the school building itself to use the other restrooms.
- The gym will be air-conditioned, so we ask that you keep the exit doors closed as much as possible to help maintain a comfortable temperature.
- During the Eucharistic Prayer, due to the lack of kneelers, I ask that everyone remain standing. This is still a respectful and reverent posture. When I was in high school, we stood during the school Masses in the auditorium for the same reason; it was simply too cramped to kneel. In our case, standing ensures both reverence and uniformity, while also sparing anyone who might find kneeling on the hard floor burdensome. I’ll remind everyone again at Mass.
- Coffee and donuts will be available after the 8:00am and 10:30am Masses on the blacktop next to the jungle gym. Please go through the kitchen to grab your snack and then head right outside, so those who wish to stay inside and pray can do so in peace.
A Busy Week at SFX School
This past Sunday, we celebrated 8th grade graduation, a bittersweet day as we said goodbye and God bless to the Class of 2025.
Throughout the week, we also held step-up ceremonies for our Preschool 3, Preschool 4, and Kindergarten students as they prepare for their next big steps.
Today (Friday) was our annual Step-Up Day, where students visit their classroom and teacher for next year. For our rising middle schoolers (Grades 6, 7, and 8), the day began with a special Mass. In my homily, I reflected on St. Barnabas, whose feast day we celebrated Wednesday. His name means “son of encouragement,” and I challenged the students to consider: What kind of nickname would be given to you based on your character? As the future leaders of the student body, I encouraged them to strive to be sons and daughters of encouragement, always lifting up and bringing out the best in others.
We also held our Student Council elections today. Rising 8th graders ran for the positions of treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president. They delivered campaign speeches and, after the votes were announced, gave both acceptance and concession speeches with maturity.
St. Francis Xavier School truly offers a rich environment for growth, leadership, and faith. Our last day is coming up on Tuesday. Please keep our students in your prayers as they prepare for an exciting new year!
Throughout the week, we also held step-up ceremonies for our Preschool 3, Preschool 4, and Kindergarten students as they prepare for their next big steps.
Today (Friday) was our annual Step-Up Day, where students visit their classroom and teacher for next year. For our rising middle schoolers (Grades 6, 7, and 8), the day began with a special Mass. In my homily, I reflected on St. Barnabas, whose feast day we celebrated Wednesday. His name means “son of encouragement,” and I challenged the students to consider: What kind of nickname would be given to you based on your character? As the future leaders of the student body, I encouraged them to strive to be sons and daughters of encouragement, always lifting up and bringing out the best in others.
We also held our Student Council elections today. Rising 8th graders ran for the positions of treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president. They delivered campaign speeches and, after the votes were announced, gave both acceptance and concession speeches with maturity.
St. Francis Xavier School truly offers a rich environment for growth, leadership, and faith. Our last day is coming up on Tuesday. Please keep our students in your prayers as they prepare for an exciting new year!
“Holy Smokes” – A New Men’s Night
Last night (Thursday), Jay Hamel and the Men of St. Joseph hosted a first of its kind event for our parish called Holy Smokes. We gathered at the home of one of the men for a bonfire, a smoked pork dinner, and cigars.
Jay offered a brief talk to spark conversation. He shared how many saints were known to smoke cigars, and reflected on how cigar smoking can be both contemplative, helping us disengage from the noise of the world, and fraternal, as it invites us to sit and be present with others for an extended time. He also spoke about moments of spiritual awakening and conversion, asking each of us to consider: “Was there a specific moment when God really woke you up and turned you toward Him?”
It was a great night of fraternity, and we’re already looking forward to doing it again.
Special thanks to Jason Plante for hosting us so generously!
Jay offered a brief talk to spark conversation. He shared how many saints were known to smoke cigars, and reflected on how cigar smoking can be both contemplative, helping us disengage from the noise of the world, and fraternal, as it invites us to sit and be present with others for an extended time. He also spoke about moments of spiritual awakening and conversion, asking each of us to consider: “Was there a specific moment when God really woke you up and turned you toward Him?”
It was a great night of fraternity, and we’re already looking forward to doing it again.
Special thanks to Jason Plante for hosting us so generously!
Thank You from the Knights of Columbus
The Knights asked me to pass along their heartfelt thanks for your generosity during last weekend’s Tootsie Roll Drive. Thanks to your support, our parish raised $1,230.50 to assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Your kindness truly makes a difference!
Your kindness truly makes a difference!
Sign up Now! Training for New & Returning Altar Boys and Sacristans
Image: ABBC 2024
Altar Boy Boot Camp will take place July 1–3, 2025, for boys entering grades 3–12 who have received First Communion and whose families regularly attend Mass at St. Francis Xavier. This fun and faith-filled week includes training, prayer, and a field trip. If your son is interested in serving at the altar, please contact me to sign up! rjh@sfxparish.com
Image: Sacristan Day 2024
Sacristan Training for Girls will be held in July (exact date TBD) for girls entering grades 3–12 who have received First Communion and regularly attend Mass at SFX. Sacristans help prepare the altar and sacred vessels for Mass, a beautiful and reverent way to serve the Church. If your daughter is interested in serving as a sacristan, please contact me to sign up! rjh@sfxparish.com
Looking for deeper insight into this weekend’s readings? Check out this reflection from my favorite biblical scholar, Dr. John Bergsma
On the Bulletin Cover this weekend...
Blessed Joseph-Marie Cassant (6 March 1878 – 17 June 1903)
Feast day: June 17th
Beatified in 2004
A Trappist monk from France who embraced a life of simplicity, humility, and deep love for the Eucharist. Though sickly and often overlooked, he remained faithful to prayer, obedience, and the Sacred Heart of Jesus until his death at age 25.
Feast day: June 17th
Beatified in 2004
A Trappist monk from France who embraced a life of simplicity, humility, and deep love for the Eucharist. Though sickly and often overlooked, he remained faithful to prayer, obedience, and the Sacred Heart of Jesus until his death at age 25.
Baptism Congratulations to Monica Michelle Hamel! June 8, 2025
Baptism Congratulations to Reis Winterhalter! June 8, 2025
2025 Catholic Appeal
May 1 - June 30
Thank you to all who have contributed to this year’s Catholic Appeal. As of this week, parishioners from SFX have pledged $12,615.00 to support the pastoral ministries of our diocese.
If you haven’t yet had a chance to give, there’s still time. You can donate online or pick up an envelope in the entryway.
If you haven’t yet had a chance to give, there’s still time. You can donate online or pick up an envelope in the entryway.
Save the Dates for September!
Touch-a-Truck at St. Francis Xavier School
Mark your calendar for our 1st Annual Touch-a-Truck event on Saturday, September 13 at St. Francis Xavier School!
Check out the article below to see how it came together, thanks to the incredible efforts of Bryan Nadeau, a tireless champion of our parish school.
We’re excited to welcome families for a fun and engaging day. Save the date!
Massachusetts Citizens for Life Annual Banquet
Celebrate 52 Years of Defending Life in Massachusetts
Join Massachusetts Citizens for Life on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Boston Marriott Newton for our 52nd Anniversary Banquet and Fundraiser. The evening begins at 6:00 PM with a reception, followed by a plated dinner and keynote address.
Our featured speaker is Kayleigh McEnany, former White House press secretary and current co-host of Outnumbered on Fox News. She will offer a powerful message on faith, leadership, and the fight for life.
This is a meaningful opportunity to reflect on recent pro-life victories, connect with fellow advocates, and support MCFL’s ongoing mission.
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.