Renovation Updates – Week Fourteen
We finally made it! Today marks the 100th anniversary of the dedication of St. Francis Xavier Church. One hundred years ago, on Sunday, September 13, 1925, Bishop Daniel Feehan came and blessed this beautiful building, built by the faithful people of St. Francis Xavier Parish here in Acushnet.
It’s been a busy final push this week to get everything together, and I think you’ll agree the church has come out beautifully. The contractors wrapped up their work on Thursday night, and on Friday a wonderful crew of volunteers joined me to clean and bring back everything we had taken out in June. Thank you to everyone who helped with cleaning and setting things back in place to make our church shine again.
Everyone is invited today to the 4:00pm Mass when Bishop da Cunha will celebrate this centennial with us. Our parish youth altar servers and sacristans will process together, and we’ll also be joined by several priest friends of the parish.
This summer has been very challenging as I’ve managed a project of this size, and I am so relieved and grateful to have reached this point. Thank you for your prayers, your support, and for being such an essential part of our parish family.
It’s been a busy final push this week to get everything together, and I think you’ll agree the church has come out beautifully. The contractors wrapped up their work on Thursday night, and on Friday a wonderful crew of volunteers joined me to clean and bring back everything we had taken out in June. Thank you to everyone who helped with cleaning and setting things back in place to make our church shine again.
Everyone is invited today to the 4:00pm Mass when Bishop da Cunha will celebrate this centennial with us. Our parish youth altar servers and sacristans will process together, and we’ll also be joined by several priest friends of the parish.
This summer has been very challenging as I’ve managed a project of this size, and I am so relieved and grateful to have reached this point. Thank you for your prayers, your support, and for being such an essential part of our parish family.
A Look Back Before the Big Reveal
Here’s a reminder of what the church looked like before the renovation. I’ve included a photo from our Facebook page so you can see the “before” view ahead of walking in for the first time this weekend.
I’m sorry to share some disappointing news. We discovered yesterday that our church elevator is currently not working. Significant maintenance was done on it this summer to meet state inspection requirements, but when we went to use it yesterday to bring a few items upstairs, it failed to operate.
An emergency technician from our elevator company came immediately to inspect it and found a part that needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, that part will not arrive until next week. This means the elevator will not be in service for our centennial weekend.
I know how important this access is for many of our parishioners, and it breaks my heart that anyone who cannot manage the front steps will be unable to enter the church this weekend. Please know we are doing everything we can to get it repaired as quickly as possible, and I will keep you updated. I am truly sorry for this inconvenience, especially at such an important time for our parish.
An emergency technician from our elevator company came immediately to inspect it and found a part that needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, that part will not arrive until next week. This means the elevator will not be in service for our centennial weekend.
I know how important this access is for many of our parishioners, and it breaks my heart that anyone who cannot manage the front steps will be unable to enter the church this weekend. Please know we are doing everything we can to get it repaired as quickly as possible, and I will keep you updated. I am truly sorry for this inconvenience, especially at such an important time for our parish.
100th Anniversary T-Shirts & Sweatshirts
Special T-shirts and sweatshirts have been created to mark the 100th anniversary of our church. Samples will be available in the entryway this weekend so you can see the sizes. Order forms will be provided to take home and return with your purchase. We’re hoping to see many parishioners wearing them at the 100th anniversary celebration on Sunday afternoon, September 28. Youth altar servers and sacristans will receive a special discount.
Centennial Commemorative Booklet - Please pick one up
I’ve prepared a special commemorative booklet for our church’s centennial and the renovation campaign. Booklets will be available in the entryway this weekend - please pick one up as you come in.
Inside you’ll find:
A full list of all our donors, recognizing and thanking everyone who has supported this project.
A worship aid for this weekend’s Mass, since the missalettes do not have the correct readings, with all of the music for the liturgy.
I hope you enjoy the booklet!
Inside you’ll find:
A full list of all our donors, recognizing and thanking everyone who has supported this project.
A worship aid for this weekend’s Mass, since the missalettes do not have the correct readings, with all of the music for the liturgy.
I hope you enjoy the booklet!
The Solemnity of the Dedication this Weekend
Today is the 100th Anniversary of the Dedication of St. Francis Xavier Church. I asked the Bishop if, just for this year, we could transfer the celebration from Saturday, September 13th, to also be celebrated liturgically on Sunday, September 14th. He kindly granted permission.
The bishop has the authority to transfer a feast like this for pastoral reasons, and I requested it so that our whole parish could share in the celebration together.
That means the Sunday Masses this weekend will celebrate the anniversary of the dedication, rather than the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross. The prayers and readings will be for the dedication - an annual solemn feast in the life of every parish church. Please note that the missalettes and Magnificats will not match the readings that day. A worship aid has been prepared and placed in the Centennial Booklets in the entryway.
I wanted to make this change so that the entire parish family could take part in this historic moment - not only at the Saturday 4:00pm Mass with the Bishop, but also at the Sunday Masses. The dedication of a parish church is considered one of the highest feast days for a parish - it’s a day to celebrate not only in church, but also in our homes and lives in a special way.
The bishop has the authority to transfer a feast like this for pastoral reasons, and I requested it so that our whole parish could share in the celebration together.
That means the Sunday Masses this weekend will celebrate the anniversary of the dedication, rather than the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross. The prayers and readings will be for the dedication - an annual solemn feast in the life of every parish church. Please note that the missalettes and Magnificats will not match the readings that day. A worship aid has been prepared and placed in the Centennial Booklets in the entryway.
I wanted to make this change so that the entire parish family could take part in this historic moment - not only at the Saturday 4:00pm Mass with the Bishop, but also at the Sunday Masses. The dedication of a parish church is considered one of the highest feast days for a parish - it’s a day to celebrate not only in church, but also in our homes and lives in a special way.
Update on Church Progress
As I mentioned last week, the church is mostly complete, but some work will continue over the next couple of weeks. The contractors will not be here at all this coming week but plan to return the following two weeks. On those days I’m tentatively planning to hold the weekday 9:00am Mass in the Hospitality Room rather than in the church to allow the crew to start earlier.
Here are a few of the projects still in progress:
Glass partition in the entryway: We experienced some delays in designing and ordering it back in early August. It was scheduled to arrive last week from the manufacturer in New Jersey, but their glass printer broke, so it’s still on its way.
Entryway bathroom: The bathroom itself is ready for use, but we’re waiting on a new deadbolt lock to arrive, so it currently has a temporary lock. We also still need to install the baby changing table in that bathroom, for now, the changing table remains in the old bathroom, which is still open and available.
Additional areas: The two back hallways and the Adoration chapel still need finishing work, which will take place during the coming weeks.
Thank you for your patience and support as we finish up these final details. I’ll keep you updated as each piece comes together.
Here are a few of the projects still in progress:
Glass partition in the entryway: We experienced some delays in designing and ordering it back in early August. It was scheduled to arrive last week from the manufacturer in New Jersey, but their glass printer broke, so it’s still on its way.
Entryway bathroom: The bathroom itself is ready for use, but we’re waiting on a new deadbolt lock to arrive, so it currently has a temporary lock. We also still need to install the baby changing table in that bathroom, for now, the changing table remains in the old bathroom, which is still open and available.
Additional areas: The two back hallways and the Adoration chapel still need finishing work, which will take place during the coming weeks.
Thank you for your patience and support as we finish up these final details. I’ll keep you updated as each piece comes together.
Thank You for a Summer of Gym Masses!
As we return to our beautifully restored church, I want to thank everyone who made our summer of “gym Masses” possible. First, thank you to all of you for your patience and perseverance through that experience. I believe it helped us bond together as a community.
Thank you to our sacristans for making so many adjustments to the Mass setup in such a foreign environment, and to our collectors for figuring out how to handle the collections in the gym space.
Thank you to our sacristans for making so many adjustments to the Mass setup in such a foreign environment, and to our collectors for figuring out how to handle the collections in the gym space.
Thank you to our musicians, Jono and Allison, for setting up and handling the audio system all summer.
Thank you to the Events Committee for running coffee and donuts on Sundays, and to all who contributed treats. A special thanks to Dave Fredette for picking up the donuts each Sunday morning
Thank you to Michael Correa for the idea to bring in an AC unit; to Michael Bachstein for helping coordinate the rental; and to David Pereira for doing the installation.
Finally, thank you to Mrs. Rogers for putting up with us as we took over her gym all summer - even allowing us to use her brand new gym floor!
We made it through together, and I’m so grateful for everyone who pitched in.
Finally, thank you to Mrs. Rogers for putting up with us as we took over her gym all summer - even allowing us to use her brand new gym floor!
We made it through together, and I’m so grateful for everyone who pitched in.
A Note About Adoration in the Coming Weeks
Adoration will remain in the elevator room for a few weeks after the reopening. Our Adoration Chapel is currently being used for storage during the renovation, and it also needs paint and some additional work before it is ready. Once the space is cleared after September 13th, we will begin that work.
In the meantime, Adoration continues on the same schedule as usual. Thank you for your patience and flexibility during this final stretch. I’ll keep you posted as we move closer to returning to the chapel.
In the meantime, Adoration continues on the same schedule as usual. Thank you for your patience and flexibility during this final stretch. I’ll keep you posted as we move closer to returning to the chapel.
Anniversary Celebration RSVP
We’re planning a special celebration for the 100th anniversary of the dedication of our church.
Please join us on Sunday, September 28th, 12:00–4:00pm at St. Francis Xavier School for food, fun, and fellowship as a parish family. There is no cost to attend, but please RSVP so we can plan food accurately.
You can RSVP by signing up at Mass this weekend or next on the clipboard in the entryway or by filling out the Google Form below. Just let us know how many from your household are coming so we have a good headcount.
The afternoon will include races for all ages, a photo area, and a DJ with karaoke.
Please join us on Sunday, September 28th, 12:00–4:00pm at St. Francis Xavier School for food, fun, and fellowship as a parish family. There is no cost to attend, but please RSVP so we can plan food accurately.
You can RSVP by signing up at Mass this weekend or next on the clipboard in the entryway or by filling out the Google Form below. Just let us know how many from your household are coming so we have a good headcount.
The afternoon will include races for all ages, a photo area, and a DJ with karaoke.
New Listen Wi-Fi Hearing Assistance System
We’re excited to share that new Listen Wi-Fi assisted listening system installed a couple of weeks ago is now up and running! A heartfelt thank you to the anonymous donor who made this possible.
For those who would like to try it out this weekend:
For those who would like to try it out this weekend:
- Download the Listen Wi-Fi app (link below) to your smartphone.
- Connect at church to the SFX Acushnet Wi-Fi network (Network name: SFX Acushnet and Password:).
- You can stream the audio directly to your Bluetooth hearing aids or listen using your own earbuds or AirPods connected to your phone.
We also have four portable units available at the church for anyone who needs a device.
More information and training will be offered soon, but if you’re comfortable with technology you’re welcome to give it a try right away.
More information and training will be offered soon, but if you’re comfortable with technology you’re welcome to give it a try right away.
This past week has really shaken me. Like many of you, I have been heartbroken over the assassination of Charlie Kirk. No matter where someone stands politically, what happened was awful. A husband and father was murdered in public in front of his family. Many in our parish may not have heard of Charlie Kirk, but among younger Christians he had become a significant voice on faith and public life. I had followed his work and listened to his take on current events. His courage and willingness to speak about faith in the public square inspired many, and his tragic death is a sobering reminder of how fragile our public life has become and how much our country needs prayer, civility, and Christ’s peace. Please join me in praying for his wife and children, and for healing in our nation, as we recommit ourselves to rejecting hatred and division in every form.
Commemorative Tiles – Available Next Weekend
Because the church entryway will be so busy this weekend, we decided to hold off on distributing the commemorative tiles until next weekend so we can focus on other parts of the celebration.
The commemorative tiles for our parish’s 100th anniversary are now here. We will begin selling and distributing them at Masses next weekend, September 20–21, in the entryway. You can also pick them up at the parish office during the week if that is more convenient.
Each tile is $50, and we do have extras available for those who did not pre-order. You may pay when you pick up your tile (cash or check preferred).
Thank you for supporting our renovation campaign through this special keepsake!
The commemorative tiles for our parish’s 100th anniversary are now here. We will begin selling and distributing them at Masses next weekend, September 20–21, in the entryway. You can also pick them up at the parish office during the week if that is more convenient.
Each tile is $50, and we do have extras available for those who did not pre-order. You may pay when you pick up your tile (cash or check preferred).
Thank you for supporting our renovation campaign through this special keepsake!
Happening Today Till 2pm!!
A reminder that our first annual Touch-a-Truck at St. Francis Xavier School is taking place today until 2:00pm.
Because we expect parking to be tight, shuttles are running from the church and from Pope Park throughout the event.
Tickets can be purchased at the door, so come by and enjoy this fun family event!
Because we expect parking to be tight, shuttles are running from the church and from Pope Park throughout the event.
Tickets can be purchased at the door, so come by and enjoy this fun family event!
St. Maximilian Kolbe Movie – This Sunday!
In a wonderful turn of events, our showing of the new film about St. Maximilian Kolbe has been confirmed for this Sunday, September 14 at 4:00pm at AMC Dartmouth Mall. Those who already signed up should have received an email from me or the parish office with details. If you still need to pay, please bring your $18 to the parish office at your earliest convenience.
Please note there are no physical tickets. I will be at the theater on Sunday with our guest list and will check everyone in there. If you’re still interested in attending, there may be a few tickets left - please reach out to me directly to check availability.
Please note there are no physical tickets. I will be at the theater on Sunday with our guest list and will check everyone in there. If you’re still interested in attending, there may be a few tickets left - please reach out to me directly to check availability.
Religious Ed Registration Now Open
We are excited to begin our 4th year using the Family of Faith curriculum from Sophia Press for students in grades 1–8 who attend public school. This program equips parents to embrace their role as the primary educators of their children in the faith.
There is a mandatory Parent Orientation on Sunday, September 21.
Classes begin Sunday, October 5th.
Classes begin Sunday, October 5th.
All young people in grades 1–8 in public school, 2nd graders in Catholic school, and all 9th graders in the parish are expected to register.
We're excited to share that our first youth group night of the school year will be Sunday, September 14th from 6:30–8:30pm in the SFX gym. We’ll kick things off with a spiritual talk, a Color Powder War and plenty of pizza. Mark your calendars!
RSVP to Jay Hamel: jayhamel8@yahoo.com
Second Collection This Weekend
Women of Grace
Mass Times
Sunday: 8:00 AM | 10:30 AM
Saturday Vigil: 4:00 PM
M, T, Th, F, S: 9:00 AM
Sunday: 8:00 AM | 10:30 AM
Saturday Vigil: 4:00 PM
M, T, Th, F, S: 9:00 AM
First Friday: 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Adoration Times
Monday-Friday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-8:30pm
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-8:30pm
Wednesday
6:30am-8:30pm
Saturday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-2:45pm
6:30am-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.