Happy Palm Sunday! And my apologies for the slight delay in sending this week’s newsletter. It was a blessed Palm Sunday weekend here at the parish, and we now begin the sacred days of Holy Week. If you were not able to take a palm today, there are still some extra palms available in the church entryway. The church will be open tomorrow during the day as usual for adoration, so you are welcome to stop in to pray and take one. I wish all of you a blessed Holy Week, and I encourage you to read below about the opportunities in the coming days to enter more deeply into these sacred mysteries.
Holy Week Schedule
As we begin Holy Week, I invite you to take part in the liturgies here at St. Francis Xavier. These are the most sacred days of the entire Christian year, when we accompany the Lord through His Passion, Death, and Resurrection.
On Tuesday, Bishop da Cunha invites the faithful of the diocese to the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral in Fall River at 4:00pm. Please see the invitation included below in this newsletter. If you are considering attending, please note that parking near the cathedral can be difficult. It is also a longer liturgy, often close to two hours, but it is a nice opportunity to gather with priests and faithful from throughout the diocese as the holy oils used in the Sacraments throughout the year are blessed.
On Wednesday at 7:30pm, we will pray Tenebrae in the church. Programs will be provided. This prayer service includes psalms and chants drawn from the Church’s Divine Office and offers a reflection on the Passion of Christ.
On Holy Thursday, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper will be celebrated at 7:00pm. In previous years we have provided a bus to visit local churches afterwards, but we will not be doing that this year. However, I encourage anyone who is interested to consider following the traditional Seven Churches Visitation, in which Catholics visit seven churches on Holy Thursday evening in remembrance of the places Christ was taken during the night of His Passion. Many churches in the area usually remain open late into the evening for prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, often until about 10:00pm, though this varies by parish. In past years we have visited churches such as St. Gabriel’s, St. Mary’s, St. Joseph’s, Our Lady’s Chapel, St. Lawrence, and Holy Name of the Sacred Heart, along with our own church. If you choose to make these visits, please travel safely and use prudence as you are out on the roads in the evening. Our own church will remain open for prayer after the Mass.
On Good Friday, the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion will take place at 3:00pm, followed by Stations of the Cross at 6:30pm.
On Holy Saturday, please remember that there is no 4:00pm Mass. Instead, we will celebrate the Easter Vigil, the most beautiful liturgy of the year, on Saturday evening.
On Tuesday, Bishop da Cunha invites the faithful of the diocese to the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral in Fall River at 4:00pm. Please see the invitation included below in this newsletter. If you are considering attending, please note that parking near the cathedral can be difficult. It is also a longer liturgy, often close to two hours, but it is a nice opportunity to gather with priests and faithful from throughout the diocese as the holy oils used in the Sacraments throughout the year are blessed.
On Wednesday at 7:30pm, we will pray Tenebrae in the church. Programs will be provided. This prayer service includes psalms and chants drawn from the Church’s Divine Office and offers a reflection on the Passion of Christ.
On Holy Thursday, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper will be celebrated at 7:00pm. In previous years we have provided a bus to visit local churches afterwards, but we will not be doing that this year. However, I encourage anyone who is interested to consider following the traditional Seven Churches Visitation, in which Catholics visit seven churches on Holy Thursday evening in remembrance of the places Christ was taken during the night of His Passion. Many churches in the area usually remain open late into the evening for prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, often until about 10:00pm, though this varies by parish. In past years we have visited churches such as St. Gabriel’s, St. Mary’s, St. Joseph’s, Our Lady’s Chapel, St. Lawrence, and Holy Name of the Sacred Heart, along with our own church. If you choose to make these visits, please travel safely and use prudence as you are out on the roads in the evening. Our own church will remain open for prayer after the Mass.
On Good Friday, the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion will take place at 3:00pm, followed by Stations of the Cross at 6:30pm.
On Holy Saturday, please remember that there is no 4:00pm Mass. Instead, we will celebrate the Easter Vigil, the most beautiful liturgy of the year, on Saturday evening.
This Week at SFX School
Thank you to everyone who offered prayers this past week for the visit of the NEASC accreditation team at SFX School. As I mentioned in last weekend’s newsletter, the visiting team was here from Sunday through Wednesday as part of our decennial review, which takes place once every ten years.
During this visit, a team of educators from other Catholic and independent schools spends several days on campus observing classes, reviewing materials, and meeting with representatives from every part of the school community, including students, teachers, staff, parents, and members of our advisory board. The purpose of the visit is not only to evaluate the school but also to offer guidance that helps the school continue to grow and develop in the years ahead.
As pastor, I joined Mrs. Rogers and Mrs. Shaughnessy for the team’s final feedback session on Wednesday. I am very happy to share that they offered an extremely positive and encouraging review of SFX School. They repeatedly commented on the joy they experienced throughout the building, the dedication of our teachers and staff, the confidence and leadership of our students, and the strong support of our families. They also spoke very positively about the long term strength and sustainability of the school, which was very encouraging to hear.
The team was especially struck by how clearly our mission shapes the life of the school. Each morning our students recite the mission statement: “We are inspired by St. Francis Xavier to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ, to educate our minds and souls, and to use faith and reason to guide us as we live our lives.” One of the team members even remarked that during their visit they overheard a parent reciting the mission statement from memory. Everywhere they went, they said it was clear that our community is truly striving to live that mission.
They also spoke very highly of the leadership of Mrs. Rogers and Mrs. Shaughnessy, describing them as exemplary administrators who have done exceptional work preparing the school for the future. I am deeply grateful for the dedication they show to our students and families each day.
At the same time, the visiting team offered a few suggestions that will help guide our continued growth, including continued work on curriculum development, expanded professional development opportunities for teachers, and exploring additional administrative support as the school continues to thrive.
In the coming weeks we will receive the team’s full written report, and the school is expected to receive its formal reaccreditation at the NEASC commission meeting in June. This visit reminded me once again what a tremendous blessing St. Francis Xavier School is for our parish and for the wider community. Thank you to all who support the mission of Catholic education here.
On Wednesday we also gathered for our school Mass for the Solemnity of the Annunciation. In the homily I encouraged the students that on great feast days of the Blessed Virgin Mary we should “shower her with compliments,” thanking her for her yes to God and for the role she plays in our salvation and in our lives today. I shared a funny memory from when I first visited SFX and visited the kindergarten classroom where the students showered me with funny compliments. I told the students that in a similar way, on Mary’s feast days we should take time to speak to her in prayer, thanking her and honoring her for the beautiful role she has in God’s plan.
Then on Friday we held our Lenten penance service for the school, giving all of the students the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Confession as we prepare our hearts to enter into Holy Week. The time of prayer also included Eucharistic Adoration with worship music.
During this visit, a team of educators from other Catholic and independent schools spends several days on campus observing classes, reviewing materials, and meeting with representatives from every part of the school community, including students, teachers, staff, parents, and members of our advisory board. The purpose of the visit is not only to evaluate the school but also to offer guidance that helps the school continue to grow and develop in the years ahead.
As pastor, I joined Mrs. Rogers and Mrs. Shaughnessy for the team’s final feedback session on Wednesday. I am very happy to share that they offered an extremely positive and encouraging review of SFX School. They repeatedly commented on the joy they experienced throughout the building, the dedication of our teachers and staff, the confidence and leadership of our students, and the strong support of our families. They also spoke very positively about the long term strength and sustainability of the school, which was very encouraging to hear.
The team was especially struck by how clearly our mission shapes the life of the school. Each morning our students recite the mission statement: “We are inspired by St. Francis Xavier to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ, to educate our minds and souls, and to use faith and reason to guide us as we live our lives.” One of the team members even remarked that during their visit they overheard a parent reciting the mission statement from memory. Everywhere they went, they said it was clear that our community is truly striving to live that mission.
They also spoke very highly of the leadership of Mrs. Rogers and Mrs. Shaughnessy, describing them as exemplary administrators who have done exceptional work preparing the school for the future. I am deeply grateful for the dedication they show to our students and families each day.
At the same time, the visiting team offered a few suggestions that will help guide our continued growth, including continued work on curriculum development, expanded professional development opportunities for teachers, and exploring additional administrative support as the school continues to thrive.
In the coming weeks we will receive the team’s full written report, and the school is expected to receive its formal reaccreditation at the NEASC commission meeting in June. This visit reminded me once again what a tremendous blessing St. Francis Xavier School is for our parish and for the wider community. Thank you to all who support the mission of Catholic education here.
On Wednesday we also gathered for our school Mass for the Solemnity of the Annunciation. In the homily I encouraged the students that on great feast days of the Blessed Virgin Mary we should “shower her with compliments,” thanking her for her yes to God and for the role she plays in our salvation and in our lives today. I shared a funny memory from when I first visited SFX and visited the kindergarten classroom where the students showered me with funny compliments. I told the students that in a similar way, on Mary’s feast days we should take time to speak to her in prayer, thanking her and honoring her for the beautiful role she has in God’s plan.
Then on Friday we held our Lenten penance service for the school, giving all of the students the opportunity to celebrate the Sacrament of Confession as we prepare our hearts to enter into Holy Week. The time of prayer also included Eucharistic Adoration with worship music.
Rebel 5K Brew Run to Support SFX School
On Saturday, April 11, St. Francis Xavier School will host its first annual “Rebel 5K Brew Run,” a community fundraiser to support the school. The race will begin at 11:00am, followed by a post race celebration from 12:00 to 3:00pm with food, live music, kids activities, and tastings for adults who register for the event.
While the event is called a 5K “run,” it is designed to be welcoming for everyone. Participants are welcome to walk the route as well, making it a fun way for families and friends to be part of the day together.
Even if running is not for you, the school is also looking for about 20 volunteers to help along the race route. Volunteers would stand at an assigned street corner and point runners in the correct direction as they pass. Volunteers are needed from 10:15am to about 12:00pm on race day. If you are able to help, please contact the school at bnadeau@sfxacushnet.com or
While the event is called a 5K “run,” it is designed to be welcoming for everyone. Participants are welcome to walk the route as well, making it a fun way for families and friends to be part of the day together.
Even if running is not for you, the school is also looking for about 20 volunteers to help along the race route. Volunteers would stand at an assigned street corner and point runners in the correct direction as they pass. Volunteers are needed from 10:15am to about 12:00pm on race day. If you are able to help, please contact the school at bnadeau@sfxacushnet.com or
Two Thank Yous
Thank you to the members of our Events Committee who helped organize last week’s Chowder and Trivia Night. A great time was had by all who attended. Thank you to Andrew Hamel for providing the trivia and to Deacon Dave for coordinating the chowder. I am also grateful to Dave, Louise, Marina, Mary, Mary, Mike, Robin, and Sandy for their help putting the whole evening together and making it such a fun night for our parish community.
I would also like to thank Louise Hebert and Mary Cardoza for coordinating the Living Stations of the Cross last Friday evening. Thank you as well to all of the young people who participated in the presentation and to everyone who came out to pray and attend.
I would also like to thank Louise Hebert and Mary Cardoza for coordinating the Living Stations of the Cross last Friday evening. Thank you as well to all of the young people who participated in the presentation and to everyone who came out to pray and attend.
A Homily for this Sunday from Fr. Mike Schmitz
In your kindness, please pray for the repose of the soul's of the following individuals:
Melvin "Mel" John West Jr. passed away recently. He was a devoted longtime parishioner of St. Francis Xavier and a faithful member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 31st from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Rock Funeral Home. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated here at St. Francis Xavier on Wednesday, April 1st at 10:00am. Please keep Mel and his family in your prayers.
Melvin "Mel" John West Jr. passed away recently. He was a devoted longtime parishioner of St. Francis Xavier and a faithful member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 31st from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Rock Funeral Home. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated here at St. Francis Xavier on Wednesday, April 1st at 10:00am. Please keep Mel and his family in your prayers.
Antone Rose, 62, of Acushnet, died unexpectedly on March 14, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital. Anton was a member of St. Francis Xavier Parish and was known to attend the 4:00pm Mass on Saturdays. His daughter recently reached out to share the heartbreaking news of his passing and to ask that he be remembered in the prayers of our parish community. Although his funeral was celebrated at St. Lawrence, his family wanted the parish he worshipped with to know of his passing and to keep Antone, along with his daughters Kristin and Brittney, in your prayers as they mourn the loss of their father. If you knew Antone or would like to offer a word of remembrance, his family would surely appreciate a message in the online guest book of his obituary.
Women of Grace Book Study Starting in April
Recording of Jay Hamel's Men's Night Talk
Lenten Offering Boxes
Thank you to everyone who has already returned their Lenten offering boxes. If you still have yours at home, you are welcome to bring it back to the church in the coming days with any change, bills, or a check (checks may be made out to St. Francis Xavier Parish). As I mentioned at the beginning of Lent, this year our parish’s communal charity is our Seminarian Fund, which supports the men from our parish who are currently preparing for the priesthood, including Lucas daCosta and Noah Pollard. Gifts to this fund help provide ongoing support for them throughout the years of their formation. Thank you very much for your generosity.
Recent Baptism Congratulations to Peyton!
Holy One of the Week
Venerable Carla Ronci
Lay Apostle
(11 April 1936 – 2 April 1970)
A young Italian hairdresser whose joyful faith and deep love for the Eucharist led the Church to recognize her heroic holiness after her death from cancer at age 34.
“I am happy to exist. I am content with everything that surrounds me because in everything I detect a gift of God. All the peace which fills and pervades my heart comes from possessing Jesus.” —Venerable Carla Ronci
Invitation from Bishop to the Chrism Mass
Tuesday March 31st
A Little History in the Bathroom
If you happen to use the new entryway bathroom, be sure to take a moment to look at the two new photographs on the wall. They are enlargements of the original photographs of St. Francis Xavier Church taken in 1925, which I shared with you back in July. The originals were printed on thin metal sheets, and I recently had them enlarged and reproduced so that we could display them for everyone to enjoy.
On a related note, it has been wonderful to finally have a restroom in the entryway. From my perspective, it seems to be getting plenty of use, and it is nice not seeing the steady stream of people heading toward the front of the church during Mass to use the facilities. I hope you have been enjoying this small but very helpful improvement as well.
On a related note, it has been wonderful to finally have a restroom in the entryway. From my perspective, it seems to be getting plenty of use, and it is nice not seeing the steady stream of people heading toward the front of the church during Mass to use the facilities. I hope you have been enjoying this small but very helpful improvement as well.
Some of you may have noticed the curtain hanging over the wall near the baptismal font this weekend although I have to admit I was a little surprised that no one asked me about it! 😅 Behind it is that new hand painted tile scene from Portugal which is currently being installed. For now it remains covered while the final work is being completed. Once everything is finished, we will unveil it and bless it. So for the moment, the curtain is my attempt to build a little suspense.
Easter Flowers
Thank you to everyone who has already made a donation toward the Easter flowers. Your generosity helps make our church especially beautiful as we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord.
If you would like to make a donation in memory of a loved one, additional Easter flower envelopes are available in the entryway. The names of those remembered will be included in the bulletin in the weeks ahead.
If you would like to make a donation in memory of a loved one, additional Easter flower envelopes are available in the entryway. The names of those remembered will be included in the bulletin in the weeks ahead.
Boston Catholic Men's Conference
God Bless the Romeiros!
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-7:30pm
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-7:30pm
Wednesday
6:30am-7:30pm
Saturday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-2:45pm
6:30am-7:30pm
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.