The Solemnity of PentecostSacrament of Confirmation

24 May 2015Pentecost

Josef Ignaz Mildorfer (1750s)

Saint Cecilia

P A R I S H

Welcome to Saint Cecilia Parish, a Roman Catholic community that gathers day by day, week by week, to know and make known the grace of God. By means of this abundant grace, we enjoy a diverse and close-knit parish family—young, old, rich, poor, of various ethnic origins and differing backgrounds. From our extraordinary music program to a growing children’s faith formation program; from the various liturgical ministries to the many opportunities for social outreach that the parish provides, Saint Cecilia is a vibrant community of faith, centered on prayer and worship that tries to keep the Gospel close to heart and to live by Jesus’ teachings.

Saint Cecilia Parish was established in 1888. At that time the Back Bay section of Boston along Commonwealth Avenue and Beacon Street was the residential section of the Yankee aristocracy. The maids (“Irish working out girls”) and coachmen who served these residents had long requested a church of their own. When Archbishop Williams granted their request and carved the parish from the territory of the Cathedral, they built a magnificent church out of their meager earnings.

The church was dedicated on April 22, 1894. Its architecture is Romanesque, XII Century Norman. The main altar, notable for its massive simplicity, was carved from a single block of white Carrara marble. The painting in the center reredos is a reproduction of da Vinci’s The Last Supper, and the dome above is an array of 24K gold rosettes.

For the sixtieth anniversary celebration in 1954, a massive renovation project was under-taken. During this renovation, a statue of Pope Saint Pius X (canonized that same year) was imported from Italy and placed on the right side of the sanctuary. Above the statue are paintings from Pius’ life. On the left side is a statue of Saint Patrick, principal patron of the Archdiocese of Boston, and above it are three scenes from his life.

Fourteen circular and sixteen square panels adorn the nave and arches of the church. The square panels are decorated with the symbols of Our Lady taken from the Litany of Loreto and the circular ones with symbols taken from the lives of the apostles. The great window of the Assumption—framed by the two oak cases of the organ—was installed in 1954 (the Marian Year) in spaces originally designed for windows but not until then used.

The original organ of 24 stops was built in 1902 by the Hutchings-Votey Organ Company, Opus 1465, and was rebuilt in 1954 with 32 stops. In 1998, Timothy Smith and Theodore Gilbert began a massive reconstruction of the organ. The current Smith & Gilbert Organ of 4 manuals, 50 ranks, and 2,926 pipes was dedicated on the Feast of Saint Cecilia, November 22, 1999.

Today we are experiencing something of an awakening within these old walls. We recently completed a major renovation, our numbers are increasing, and we continue to grow in our commitment to issues of peace, justice, and service to our neighbors, both near and far.

We’ve been right here on Belvidere Street, in the same building for 126 years, but that does not mean that life here is stale, stagnant, or even predictable. We are proud to be entrusted with the legacy of Saint Cecilia Parish, where everything is the same, yet always changing; where we honor tradition while embracing the future; where God’s love makes all things new.

welcome!

Ministers of the Liturgy

Saturday | 5:00 p.m.Rev. John Unni, celebrantCatherine Horsley, lector

Sunday | 8:00 a.m.Rev. Thomas Gariepy, CSC, celebrantJames Paradis, lector

Sunday | 9:30 a.m.Rev. John Unni, celebrantMaggie Loh, Rosaria Salerno, & Christopher Loh, lectors Sunday | 11:15 a.m.Very Rev. James A. Flavin, celebrantRev. John J. Unni, concelebrantRev. George "Jerry" Hogan, concelebrantFederico Rollo, Olivia Leilani Patricia Brown, & Liam Richard Francis Cahill, lectors

today’s readingsActs 2:1-111 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13John 20:19-23

next sunday’s ReadingsDeutoronomy 4:32-34, 39-40Romans 8:14-17Matthew 28:16-20

Special intentions

Saturday, May 23 | 5:00 p.m. John McLaughlin, 7th Anniversary Sunday, May 24 | 9:30 a.m. Liz Pino, Memorial

SAINT CECILIA PARISH

3

our community news

FOOD DONATIONS FOR CATHOLIC CHARITIESThis week's featured donation item is:

CEREAL!

Next week's featured donation item is:PASTA!

Donations of pasta, sauce, cereal, tuna, & other canned food are always also accepted. Please leave food donations in the narthex baskets.

SAINT CECILIA PARISH

4

Prayers & Occasions

Our SickPlease pray for all our sick and for those who are in need of our prayer, especially Jennifer Serpico, Rudy Kikel, Annette Kulas, Steven Whitkens, Lisa Caputo, Anthony Simboli, Lisa Caputo, Anne Frenette Handly, Ruth Frost, Roséa Aubrey, Brenna Smith, Mildred McLaughlin, Domenic Iannaccone, Cameron Robinson, Ken Bennett, Paul Claveau, Jaheel Robinson, Robert Lupis, Michael Claveau, Max Tubman, David Worster, Derek Schall, Susan Noll, Jennifer Murdock, Julie Downey, Donna Thagard, Penny Maynard, Robert Kimball, Owen Kyes, Mark Schatzl, Hugo Collamati, Chris Novosielski, Gayle Haley, Michalina Maniscalco, Niall O'Shaughnessy, Javier A. Sattler, Annie Flaherty, Pattie Geier, Colin Landry, Jake Mercier, Michael Patrick Kelly, Pilar Estrada, Mark Anderson, Matty Goddard, Stephanie Merenda, Carlo Pagani, Shea Hammond, Bill Downing, Skyler Stevenson, Rob Morrissey, Nimet Yousif, Rev. Robert Quinn, CSP, Boris Chermak, Dennis Heaphy, Mary Yanez, Roberta McMann, Silvia Basagni, Brian Donnelly, Peter Webster, John Farris, Karen Thoresen, Theresa Wier, Lena Bryant, Silvana Franco, Bill Ahern, Michael Steffen, Kenny Borum, Kevin, Lisa Anzalone, Joseph Pierre, George Driscoll, Bill Pennington, Rose Rizzo, Lisa Mazzanti Cox, George Morales, and Richard Smith.

Welcome to Saint Cecilia!We are pleased to welcome the following new members of our parish who have recently registered: Mary Lou Bozza of Boston, Daniel Lionetta of Woburn, Anthony Cutaia of Boston, Robert Boucher of Malden, and Kathleen St. John of Boston. If you have not previously registered with the parish, there are forms in the narthex for this purpose or you can register online at www.stceciliaboston.org.

Welcome Back, Father John!We are so pleased to welcome Father John back this weekend! We've missed you terribly and are so happy to have you back with us.

Celebration of ConfirmationWe are delighted to have twenty-four young men and women being confirmed at the eleven-fifteen liturgy. Please remember to keep them in your prayer as they receive the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

This Week's Special CollectionThis week's second collection supports the formation and training of seminarians in the Archdiocese of Boston. We are blessed that so many men are responding to the call to serve the Church as priests. Your customary generosity is appreciated. For more information, please visit www.VocationsBoston.org.

Thank You!Last week’s second collection was designated to support the Catholic Communication Campaign. Due to your generosity, we were able to collect $1,064 to help share the Good News. Thank you very much!

Congrats, Kyle, Mary Beth, Stephanie, & Katey!Kyle Cyr, Mary Beth Howard, and Stephanie Donatelli all graduated last Sunday, May 17 from Boston University as M.D.s. Katey Sullivan, daughter of staff member Maureen Sullivan, will be graduating from Melrose High School on May 29. This autumn, Katey will attend Simmons College where she will major in nursing and also be a member of their NCAA DIII basketball team. Well done, Kyle, Mary Beth, Stephanie, and Katey!

TWEETS FROM THE POPEIt is better to have a Church thatis wounded but out in the streetsthan a Church that is sick because

it is closed in on itself.

God is always waiting for us, he always understands us,

he always forgives us.

5

SAINT CECILIA PARISH

calendar notes on pentecostPentecost is the fiftieth and final day of Eastertide. It is, curiously to us, a harvest feast in its origins. This doesn’tseem like harvest time here, but around the Mediterraneanthe apricots, cherries, and strawberries are ripe and readyfor the market. Winter wheat is the principal harvest of theyear and, if all goes well, yields a crop that can feed peopleall year long. Even in the north, we have asparagus, rhubarb,the first peas, spinach and salad greens. Winter's fast is nowspringtime’s feast. So, the Jewish people kept a feast of"firstfruits" fifty days after Passover. This feast, calledShavuot, is a time of celebrating the harvest and also God’scovenant made on Mount Sinai. Since the first Christians would have kept Shavuot, it is easy to see how Christianmeaning was assigned to this Jewish feast.

So, Pentecost sets a seal on Easter; it is a grand finale, and our liturgy should reflect that energy as we celebrate the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The liturgy begins with theaccount in Acts of the Apostles of the coming of the Spirit Jesus promised. The Spirit descends in fire and wind, justas God appeared to Moses on Mount Sinai. Over and over again in the Gospel of Luke we hear that Jesus was filled with the power of the Spirit. Pentecost is made anew at every baptism, every eucharist, every time two or more gather in Jesus' name. This is the last Sunday when the Mass begins with the blessing and sprinkling of holy water.

There are many customs around the world that can extendPentecost into your home. In some places, people decoratetheir homes with red roses and peonies and fresh greenleaves. Years ago the Vigil of Pentecost was observed withcaroling and dancing outdoors near churches. It is a day forflying kites or walking a wind-swept beach. Strawberry shortcake is a traditional Pentecost dessert. People wear redwhen they go to Mass in many places. In Red Sox Nation, it shouldn't be so hard to find something red to wear to church!

— Rev. James Field

confirmationAt this morning's eleven-fifteen liturgy, we celebrate the sacrament of confirmation for twenty-four young men and women who have been preparing to receive the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Please remember to keepthem in your prayer.

Ariyand Michael AminpourIan Michael Brostowski

Olivia Leilani Patricia BrownLiam Richard Francis CahillJohn Paul Michael Champa

Colm Bartholomew Fiachra CreanerEllen Eagan Aloysius Curtis

Eleanor Dahar DennehyEoghan Brendan Christopher Downey

Zoë Alexzandra Mariana Cecilia Kesting-HandlyAlexander Brill James KurtinAidan Timmins Peter Largey

Robert McGowan Ignatius LargeySofia Love

Sophia Ellen MarotaMaeve Dillon Cecilia Martin

Claire Jinchun Elizabeth MellowesAllegra Paola Francesca Anna RolloAnthony Marcus Robert Michael Roy

Matthew Anthony SheehanMegan Eleanor SheehanLauren Mary Sweeney

Kathleen McClure Mary WestoverKeara Murphy Honor Westover

The golden sequenceVeni Sancti Spiritus, known as "the Golden Sequence," is the sequence for the Mass for Pentecost. It is commonly regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces of sacred Latin poetry ever written. Its beauty and depth have been praised by many. This beautiful poem addresses the Holy Spirit with many different titles and images: the Holy Spirit is “Father of the poor," "comforter," "sweet refreshment," "solace," and "light." The multitude of images suggests the free play of the Holy Spirit: gentle, yet never static, and impossible to be contained or controlled.

The poem has been attributed to different authors, the most likely being Stephen Cardinal Langton, Archbishop of Canterbury (1207—1228). Listen to the beautiful compositionof today’s sequence, composed by our own Richard J. Clark and sung just before the Gospel acclamation. Let it bring you to a deeper place of prayer on this final day of Eastertide.

SAINT CECILIA PARISHSAINT CECILIA PARISH

6

JOIN US AT COMMUNITY SERVINGS On Saturday, June 13 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. we will be volunteering in the kitchens of Community Servings. We are looking for volunteers to assist in preparing and packaging nutritious meals for those who are homebound with life-threatening illnesses throughout Eastern Massachusetts. No culinary skills are required, but volunteers need to be at least thirteen years of age. Please feel free to join us even if you cannot be there until a bit later than 10:00 a.m. Community Servings is conveniently located next to the Stony Brook T Station in Jamaica Plain. To volunteer or for more information, please contact Mark Lippolt at: mlippolt@hammondre.com.

A REQUEST FROM CATHOLIC CHARITIESSunset Point Camp, located in Hull, serves as a dream "vacation" for 300 children each summer. The goal of the camp has always been to provide a free vacation for at-risk, low-income children from the Greater Boston area, without regard for their race, nationality, or religious affiliation.

Sunset Point Camp is supervised by our friends at Catholic Charities' Yawkey Center in Dorchester. They have mentioned to us that they always need donations of sunscreen for the kids at the camp. So the next time you're at CVS or Walgreen's or your local supermarket, please consider picking up an extra tube of sunscreen and dropping it in the plastic bin identified for this purpose in the narthex. We have been told the higher the SPF number, the better. The Camp also needs kids' flip flops for boys and girls age 6 to 12.

attention graduatesWe want to acknowledge and celebrate all our graduates this spring. Please email the names of parishioners who are graduating from high school or college to Caroline Gélinas at cgelinas@stceciliaboston.org. Please place the word “graduate” in the subject line. Feel free to include the name of the school and the degree awarded. We are also happy to announce student recitals.

SUPPORT CATHOLIC CHARITIESAs you know, one of our parish's ongoing ministries is to supply food donations to Catholic Charities' food pantry at the Yawkey Center in Dorchester. If you are unable to bring the requested grocery items to church, there are envelopes on the table in the narthex that you can use for making a donation to Catholic Charities. Thank you for your consideration.

WANT TO GO FOR A WALK?!Gregg Ramsey, a Saint Cecilia parishioner and electric guitarist at our 6:00 p.m. Mass, provides dog sitting and dog walking services in the area. Anyone in need of these dog services can contact Gregg directly at 857-991-9099.

A REMEMBRANCE PRAYER

In the quiet sanctuaries of our own hearts, let each of us name and call on the One whose power over us is great and gentle, firm and forgiving, holy and healing... You who created us, who sustain us, who call us to live in peace, hear our prayer this day. Hear our prayer for all who have died, whose hearts and hopes are known to you alone... Hear our prayer for those who put the welfare of others ahead of their own and give us hearts as generous as theirs... Hear our prayer for those who gave their lives in the service of others, and accept the gift of their sacrifice... Help us to shape and make a world where we will lay down the arms of war and turn our swords into ploughshares for a harvest of justice and peace... Comfort those who grieve the loss of their loved ones and let your healing be the hope in our hearts...

Hear our prayer this day and in your mercy answer us in the name of all that is holy. Amen. The peace of God be with you.

SAINT CECILIA PARISHSAINT CECILIA PARISH

7

Play Ball with The Red Sox andPine StreetOn Wednesday, June 24 Saint Cecilia parishioners, for the fourth year, will be hosting residents of Pine Street's scattered-site, independent-living projects at a Red Sox game! The Sox will be playing the Baltimore Orioles. We will be asking parishioners to pay for their own Grandstand 2 bleacher seat (a covered area) and to subsidize half the cost of a Pine Street guest's ticket. The cost will be $45. Also included is a hot dog and hamburger dinner in the Parish Hall before the game. This event will be entirely alcohol-free and we are expecting that parishioner attendees will engage with and provide a nice social event for our Pine Street guests. There will also be a basket in the narthex if you cannot attend the game, but would like to make a donation toward the pre-game dinner. If you would more details please email Mark Lippolt at mlippolt@hammondre.com.

SAINT CECILIA YOUNG ADULTS!Inflatable Maze at the Lawn on D Saturday, May 30 I 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Come try to navigate the tunnels of Pentalum, an inflatable maze making its first visit to the East Coast. Admission into the maze is $5. After mazing around, we’ll hang around the park to play lawn games, hit the food trucks, and enjoy the art installations. Email aliput2006@verizon.net to RSVP.

Suppah Club Tuesday, June 9 I 7:00 p.m. Tremont 647

$2 Taco Tuesday? ¡Sí, por favor! Number of spots capped at 15. RSVP to scyoungadults@gmail.com.

VOLUNTEER: Prison and After Ministry Potluck TeamMondays, June 8, July 13, August 10 I 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Parish Hall

If you can't get enough tacos, we have spots available for a taco-fiesta themed potluck for the Prison and After program on select Mondays. Setup is from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m., followed by dinner and fellowship from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. The men we are serving are truly grateful and impacted by your presence. If you want to be a part of the fiesta fun and help form the cooking team, please RSVP to scyoungadults@gmail.com.

REFRESH Meeting

Tuesday, June 2 I 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Parish Hall - Classroom 3

Please join us in a chance to share your faith with other young adult parishioners in a small group setting. For more info please email natasha.m.pierre@gmail.com.

DONE TIME?Men who have been incarcerated are invited to join the Prison & After group which is designed to provide participants with a sense of welcome and support. The meetings are held on Monday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall. We will begin with a group session followed by a simple meal. For information, please contact Peg Newman atsc.prisonandafter@gmail.com.

TO PICNIC OR NOT PICNICFinally the weather is warming and picnic season is fast approaching. In order to run a successful parish picnic,many hands are necessary and our June calendar is already filling-up with our Ministry Appreciation Garden Party, our Parish Retreat, and many weddings. That leaves Sunday, July 26 as our only available date for the parish picnic.

If you feel strongly about having a parish picnic, please consider being part of a core group of 8-10 parishioners to help make it happen. This group would share the responsibility of soliciting volunteers and planning and working at the picnic.We are having our first planning meeting on Wednesday, May 27 at 6:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall. For more information, please contact Jeanne Bruno at 617-536-4548 x117 or jbruno@stceciliaboston.org.

May 26 - Memorial of Saint Philip Neri, Priest

Patron of Rome

Melon Regis-Civetta

I am running for re-election to the Parish Council as I believe it is a way to stay involved and be part of this wonderfully diverse and accepting Parish. As a member of the Jesuit Urban Center Transition Committee

I am proud that we chose Saint Cecilia as our new home almost 8 years ago. I was active there and con-tinue to be active here. I am a single mother of 5 and a Grandmother of 14 so my organizational skills are well developed. In addition to being a Eucharistic Minister and an Altar Server I am very active in the Rainbow Ministry. I firmly believe in equality for all and work diligently to show our Church the beautiful and committed spirituality of our LGBT brothers and sisters. I run the Advent and Lenten Speaker Series—which while sponsored by the Rainbow Ministry—are open to the entire Parish. I will continue to work hard to get more people involved in our Parish and to keep Saint Cecilia's the vibrant and loving commu-nity it has become. There is still a lot of work to be done and I sincerely ask for your vote. Thank you.

Lynne Callahan

Finding my way to Saint Ceci-lia's by invitation from a friend, I have rarely missed a week at Saint Cecilia since then. At Saint Cecilia I found a community that lived the Gospel message in its outreach and community

service. Here I have become involved in the After Prison ministry, along with the Greeter's ministry. Additionally I have tried to assist in an “odd job” capacity as needed, in order to serve my parish that has given me a spiritual home. It is my desire to continue service and commitment to Saint Cecilia Parish in a more formal way as a member of the parish council. I am a grade 5 elementary teacher. Additionally, I am involved in addiction and recovery education and support. I have been married for 25 years and have three children. My “happy place” is at a working class barn with my chestnut mare “Daisy.”

Robert (Bob) Haas

I am excited to see that Pope Francis has brought collegiality back into Catholic conversation. I’ve been an advocate of col-legiality all along, through the more than 40 years of my adult life that I’ve lived in Boston. And

now I want an opportunity at Saint Cecilia to live it out. To me, collegiality means leadership broadly spread, among generations, socioeconomic back-grounds, varying levels of education and different cultures, across the boundaries that can separate race, gender, and sexual orientation. To me, collegi-ality means leading as servants, growing as we learn from one another. On the Parish Council, I would work toward a community with a strong sense of be-longing, one that clarifies our values as we increase our responsiveness to needs. I hope my experienc-es long ago as a leader at St. Clement’s and more recently at St. Ann’s, gave me wisdom I can now contribute to Saint Cecilia.

Meet the Candidates for Parish Pastoral Council

Carly Caminiti

Immediately after discovering the magic at Saint Cecilia in 2013, I became an active member and helped reignite the Saint Cecilia Young Adults group, shaping it to connect those aged 20-40 through fellowship and service.

We currently have 440 people on our young adult listserv; we had 257 when I started. We began by promoting one service activity and one social activ-ity per month, but now thanks to a core planning committee, we usually have more than six oppor-tunities. We have collaborated with other ministries of our parish, like the CARES Ministry, the Prison and After Ministry, and the Sant’Egidio Community. I believe that young adults are a critical underserved population of the Catholic Church. I have seen the untapped passion and dedication that they have for this parish and for making our community better, and I hope to serve as their representative on the council.

Doug McNicol

My name is Doug McNicol, I live in Dorchester, and I have been a parishioner as well as a member of the choir since the fall of 2012. I am a regular at the 9:30am mass, mostly because Fr. John’s homilies are too long and I have

stuff to do! All jokes aside, though, I have truly found a home here at Saint Cecilia. After singing in the Chapel

hoir at aint ose h s niversity, I wante to fin a church that was warm and welcoming and a choir that challenged me musically. My “church search” came to a grinding halt on Belvidere Street. I knew that I wanted to remain here. My hope, as a member of the parish council, is to be proactive in meeting parishio-ners, promote the opportunities that Saint Cecilia has to offer, and be a model for young adults, especially young men, to become involve in the arish. I loo forward to joining the council! Thank you!

Meet the Candidates for Parish Pastoral Council

Amy Paulin

In 2010, I discovered the blessed sanctuary of Saint Cecilia. The dynamic com-munity here truly lives out the word of the Gospels, whether through the gracious warmth extended to all who enter, en-

gagement in church ministries, or the meaningful social justice work that impacts our community and beyond. Entering this church evokes indescribable gratitude and joy. In an effort to express my deep appreciation to this sacred community; I have joined several ministries including Greeters and Pastoral Care. It would be an honor to serve on the Parish Council to further nurture and expand the wide, impactful reach of Saint Cecilia. For 15 years, I worked as an educator in Boston and surrounding communities. Two years ago, I left teaching to pur-sue an MBA. I have maintained a close connection to the community through serving Saint Cecilia, as well as, volunteering for Catholic Charities on their Basic Needs Team.

Celeste DiJohnson

Hello! My name is Celeste and I have been a member of Saint Cecilia Parish for the past three years and during this time I have truly enjoyed being a part of such a dynamic and vibrant community. Perhaps we have had the pleasure to meet each other at the 11:15 mass where I serve as a Greeter. My interest in the Parish Pastoral Council is inspired by the biblical passage highlighting that stewardship is a way of living as a disciple of Jesus Christ by recognizing that each one of us has received special gifts from God. It is my belief that we shoul return our time, talent, an treasure accor ing to the s ecific gifts that we have

received, thereby fostering spiritual and social outreach among individual parishioners and within the parish as a whole. Before closing, I would like to share with you a little about myself personally. Undeniably, the most important accomplishment of my life has been raising three wonderful children who are now young adults – what joy they bring to me on a daily basis. Professionally, I work for a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing a therapy for muscular dystrophy. My hobbies include traveling, reading, and taking care of my 1-year old puppy. I would be honored to serve on the Saint Cecilia Pastoral Council and, if elected, you have my sincere commitment to o my very best to facilitate, nurture, an contribute to a faith fille community.

Elections will take place during the weekend Masses of May 30 & 31.

10

SAINT CECILIA PARISH

In a five-part series released the week of March 16th from the National Catholic Reporter, God’s Community in the Castro, a parishioner from San Francisco’s Most Holy Redeemer parish had this to say about his spiritual home: “We don’t see ourselves as a gay community, but rather as a community that’s open to gays…It’s an acceptance and a realization that people feel OK to be who they are that makes this place different.”

For many LGBTQ men and women, The Castro District of San Francisco has been their home where life can be lived with dignity. As NCR reporter Thomas C. Fox points out in this series, Most Holy Redeemer has been the spiritual center for LGBTQ Catholics living in and around this neighborhood. Much of its current history started in the 1980’s when AIDS was taking so many lives. Since then this parish has been the sanctuary for an often neglected and shunned community.

As Catholics, we have a sense of the Church being a truly universal home, a place where all are welcome, as the name Catholic would indicate. Yet within that sense of universality there are many who feel the Church is not a welcoming home for them. Teachers have been terminated from jobs, children with disabilities have been refused sacraments, and many divorced men and women continue to feel unwanted. You don’t have to look hard to find similar stories from African-American Catholics, Latino Catholics, Catholic women, and former Catholics alike. And all of this tension has caused people to leave the church, and in some cases, lose their faith.

Yet here’s the truth I know and believe: I am created in God’s image and likeness, just as God creates us all. It is actually that simple. But sometimes we take that image and likeness and complicate it. That complication created concern for my loved ones as I discerned religious life in 2011 at the age of 33. Some were troubled that I’d find difficulty as a man of color in an ostensibly all-white male order. Others feared I would be forced into the closet after seventeen years of accepting myself as gay. A few friends expressed worry I would not encounter common ground in an order filled with the privileged when I only knew disadvantage. All of their observations and concerns were valid because they not only came from a place of love but through their own experiences as Catholics.

I am more than my skin color, my sexual orientation, and my economic class. It restricts God’s image and likeness if I only see myself as those three aspects. Defining myself purely on what I am limits who I am and how I can be of service. Even allowing these characteristics to dictate my life would prevent me from engaging the world as a wholly integrated human being. Besides, I prayed, and discerned, and made a choice. I made a commitment to live the vows of consecrated chastity, poverty, and obedience because of my belief in Christ, the mission of the Church, and the people of God. I share my struggles openly just as I share my joys. Like my parents did with each other, transparency helps me live my vows honestly so that I am always available to live out my calling as a Jesuit.

That’s the truth that sits within each of us: God made us all in his image and likeness. St. Francis De Sales said, “Be who you are and be that well.” To embrace all that we are — and to embrace each other with that love — is to embrace that image and likeness; it is to embrace God. 36 years of life and my short time as a Jesuit have confirmed that truth. And so I pray as a Church we discover tender compassion for each other to love the God that dwells in us all.

After doing time in Leavenworth — at University of Saint Mary, that is — Damian Torres-Botello, SJ became a theatre artist in his hometown of Kansas City (the Missouri side) and Chicago — mostly playwriting, but dabbling in acting and directing as well. Between belting showtunes in the shower, contributing his writing to a few periodicals here and there, and managing his own theatre company, he learned to pay his bills by becoming the best administrative assistant, office manager, and events planner ever! Damian entered the Soci-ety of Jesus in August of 2012. He currently plays the role of “philosophy student” at Loyola University Chicago, partici-pates in writing workshops at Chicago Dramatists and Second City, but mostly he loses academic battles against every philosopher known to man.

This I Believe: Created in God’s Image

By DAMIAN TORRES-BOTELLO, SJ

SAINT CECILIA PARISHSAINT CECILIA PARISH

11

JOIN OUR COMMUNITYOur ability to build community is helped by having an up–to–date database of registered parishioners. If this is one of your first times worshipping with us, welcome! If you have been participating in liturgies here for a few months — or even a few years — and have never registered, please consider doing so. It takes just a few moments to fill out a parish registration form. Once you complete your form, simply drop it in the collection basket, hand it to any staff person, or mail it to the parish office. Registration forms can be found on a table in the narthex. You can also register on–line at http://stceciliaboston.org/life-at-st-cecilias/becoming-a-registered-parishoner/. Thank you for being an active member of our community!

BC CONCERT: THE INTERIOR CASTLECelebrating the 500th Anniversary of the Birth of Saint Teresa

Friday, May 29 at 7:00 p.m.Saint Ignatius Church, Chestnut Hill

Follow the professional and spiritual journey of a female reporter, as she seeks to uncover the mysteries of Saint Teresa of Avila's prayer filled life and her relevance amidst the chaos of today. A theatrical performance will be given by Musica Aperta. This celebration is co-sponsored by Boston College Division of Mission and Ministry, and the School of Theology and Ministry. This event is free and open to the public.

Parish Operating StatementWe are pleased to present the parish operating statement (page 12) for the nine-month period ending March 31, 2015. As you can see, we have a significant net operating income due to the generosity of our parishioners.

We are especially grateful to our parishioners who participate in the Offertory Commitment Program (OCP). The slew of weekend winter storms in January and February had an obvious impact on Mass attendance. If not for the sustained giving of those enrolled in the OCP, we could never have achieved such positive results. As always, we thank you for your support as we strive to further the mission of our parish.

PALLIATIVE CARE EDUCATIONAL SERIESMany families face difficult challenges related to illness and aging. Very often, caregivers wrestle with medical options and care planning decisions during times of emergency and crisis. To help prepare for these times, Saint Michael Parish and Mary Immaculate Health/Care Services invite all community members to this free educational program. Come to either or both of these hour-long sessions on May 21 and 28, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Saint Michael Parish Hall (196 Main Street, North Andover, MA 01845). You can also visit www.saint-michael.com for further information.

LOW-GLUTEN ALTAR BREAD AVAILABLEIf you have celiac disease, please let us know. We have a supply of low-gluten altar bread available for those who cannot tolerate gluten. These hosts are prepared by the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in Clyde, Missouri.

PRAYERS FOR OUR SICK & EUCHARIST FOR THOSE AT HOME If you or someone you know is sick and would like to be added to our weekly prayer list, please call the parish office or e-mail Scott MacDonald at smacdonald@stceciliaboston.org. If you know someone who cannot be present at the Sunday celebration but would like to receive the Eucharist, please let us know. We are always happy to arrange for Holy Communion to be brought to individuals who are homebound.

A reminder to parentsWhile at Saint Cecilia, children should never go to the restroom alone. We are happy that you feel so safe here, but please remember that we are in a building that is wide open and has multiple entrances. For the safety of our children, please do not allow them to wander around unsupervised or go to the restroom unaccompanied by a parent.

Notable Saints of the WeekMay 25 - Saint Bede the Venerable

Patron of English writers and historians, and of Jarrow

May 27 - Saint Augustine of CanterburyFirst Archbishop of Canterbury (597)

Saint Cecilia Parish Operating Statement FY 2015 - July 1, 2014 to March 31, 2015

Checking Account as of 3/31/15 $322,581.43 Savings Accounts as of 3/31/15 $435,887.41

Income

Offertory $226,548.50OCP Offertory 406,468.96Shrines, Candles & Flowers 10,420.00Sacramental Offerings 56,220.00Catholic Appeal Rebate 24,813.36Gifts & Bequests 193,990.58Religious Education 18,283.00Lease/Rental Income 78,300.00Interest and Dividend Income 1,839.03Other Donations/Shelter Meals 11,445.00Other Income 470.00 Fundraising Activities 94,000.00

Total Income $1,122,798.43

Expense

Salaries Exempt & Non Exempt $239,859.74Staff Benefits 89,591.63All Clergy: Assigned and Unassigned Including Benefits 59,279.07Professional Fees 2,984.50Data Processing Fees, Bank Service Charges 5,927.03Office Supplies, Postage, Printing 17,152.37Telephone & Internet 15,375.49Office Equipment Repair & Contracts 10,050.13Books, Pamphlets, Dues, Subscriptions, Missalettes 9,187.31Household 3,561.01Utilities, Heat, Water & Sewer 80,292.26Building Insurance 27,247.00Maintenance 102,550.12Pastoral/Liturgical 101,369.89Religious Education Expenses 3,287.06Meetings & Workshops 520.00Interest Payments – Revolving Loan 219.28Central Ministry Tithe 52,866.72The Pilot 735.00Miscellaneous 4,158.36Acquisitions/Improvements – Site 17,362.82Acquisitions/Improvements – Furniture & Equipment 3,149.00 Acquisitions/Improvements – Building 30,173.41

Total Expense $876,899.20

Net Operating Income $245,899.23

13

SAINT CECILIA PARISH

Parish RESOURCESParish Office & Mailing Address18 Belvidere Street, Boston, MA 02115Hours | Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Phone | 617 536 4548Fax | 617 536 1781E-mail | info@stceciliaboston.orgWebsite | www.stceciliaboston.org

Parish StaffRev. John J. Unni, PastorMark Donohoe, Pastoral Associate for Administration, mdonohoe@stceciliaboston.orgScott J. MacDonald, Director of Faith Formation and Leadership Development, smacdonald@stceciliaboston.orgJeanne Bruno, Coordinator of Pastoral Outreach, jbruno@stceciliaboston.orgRichard J. Clark, Director of Music and Organist, rclark@stceciliaboston.orgCaroline Gélinas, Executive Assistant,cgelinas@stceciliaboston.orgMaureen Sullivan, Special Projects Manager,msullivan@stceciliaboston.org

Assisting ClergyRev. Arthus M. CalterRev. Mr. Ryan Duns, SJRev. Thomas Gariepy, CSCRev. Peter Grover, OMVRev. James Shaughnessy, SJRev. Michael Simone, SJRev. George Winchester, SJ

Schedule for LiturgyWednesday, Thursday, & Friday | 8:00 a.m.Lord’s Day | Sat 5:00 p.m.; Sun 8:00, 9:30, 11:15 a.m.Holy Days | 8:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

ReconciliationAvailable at St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine (617-266-5999 x221), St. Francis Chapel in the Prudential Center (617-437-7117), and St. An-thony Shrine (617-542-6440). Please call for scheduled times.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the communal process through which non-baptized men and women become members of the Catholic Church. It is also suitable for those baptized in different faith traditions who are interested in becoming Catholic, or, for those who were baptized Catholic, but have yet to receive the sacraments of eucharist and confirmation. For more information, please contact Scott MacDonald.

Baptism for InfantsInfant baptism is celebrated on the first Sunday of the month. For more information, please contact Mark Donohoe.

Faith Formation for ChildrenTo register your child for our Faith Formation Program, please contact Scott MacDonald.

MarriageCouples who wish to prepare for marriage should contact Mark Donohoe in the parish office at least six months in advance.

Care of the SickTo arrange for the Sacrament of the Sick, for Holy Communion to be brought to those unable to attend the Sunday celebration, or for Viaticum for the Dying (Holy Communion for those in danger of death), please contact the parish office. It is always possible to anoint the sick during regularly scheduled liturgies.

Order of Christian FuneralsThe parish is prepared to celebrate the Vigil (wake) in the church. Please contact the parish office for more information.

Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) TeamThe CAP Team is responsible for training all parish staff and volunteers in mandated reporting laws and the Protecting God’s Children program (VIRTUS). They also provide consultation and support to anyone in the parish who has concerns about reporting child abuse and neglect. Please contact Lois Flaherty (loisflaherty@gmail.com), Maria Roche (maria.roche15@gmail.com) or Letitia Howland (l_howland@hotmail.com) if you have any questions or concerns.The Archdiocese of Boston has in place a vigorous program to protect children from harm and to educate its ministers and faithful about the nature of abuse, with a goal of increasing knowledge, creating a safe environment for children, and recognizing and reporting potentially dangerous situations. The full text of the policy is also available in the narthex and parish office, as well as on our website.

For Those with Celiac DiseaseIf you have celiac disease, please let us know. We have a supply of low-gluten altar bread available for those who cannot tolerate gluten.

Hearing Assistance in ChurchThe church is equipped with an FM listening device. Small receivers are available for anyone who may have trouble hearing the sound system. Simply request a receiver from any one of our greeters before Mass.

Access for the DisabledThe church is accessible by elevator.

Sunday ParkingReduced-rate parking is available on Sundays at the Prudential Center parking garage and at the Hilton Boston Back Bay. Be sure to have a greeter validate your parking ticket before returning to your car.

Saint Cecilia Rainbow MinistrySaint Cecilia Rainbow Ministry is a GLBTQ community at Saint Cecilia. For more information, contact stceciliarainbowministry@gmail.com.

Joining Our CommunityWe’re happy that you’re with us! Our community offers a warm, spiritual home for a diverse group of Catholics. We come from many neighborhoods in and around Boston but also have parishioners from as far afield as Marlborough, Newburyport, and Stow. Please introduce yourself to a staff member, drop in for coffee on Sunday, or fill out a new parishioner form in the gathering space.