-
BackForwardPauseCaption
-
PARISH Calendar
-
Thursday, December 3, 11:30 AM - 12:00 PMXavier was 17 years old.Read More
-
Read MoreThursday, December 3, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
-
Friday, December 4, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PMEvery child in high school or middle school is welcome to attend.Read More
-
Saturday, December 5, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PMThe event is free, and for more information, contact Br. Sebastian at 718-892-3232.Read More
-
Read MoreSaturday, December 5, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
-
-
NEWS AND Weekly Mass Intentions
Beginning today the following beautiful prayer is traditionally recited fifteen times a day until Christmas. This is a very meditative prayer that helps us increase our awareness of the real focus of Christmas and helps us prepare ourselves spiritually for His coming.
+Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, O my God! to hear my prayer and grant my desires, [here mention your request] through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother. Amen.
November 30 – Monday – St. Andrew
6:30* +Alberto Brinz
8:30 S For the Intentions of the Retutas Family
12:15 +Michael P. Churchill; Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus and Intentions for Julio Diaz
December 1 – Tuesday – St. Edmund Campion
6:30* +Mamie Herman
8:30 S +Josephine Schubert
12:15 +Iris Garcia; Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus and Intentions for Julio Diaz
December 2 – Wednesday – St. Chromatius
6:30* Divine Justice for the Kidnapping and Crimes Committed Against 50,000 Young Women in India Who Were Later Sold to Burdels
8:30 S For God’s Blessings on Fr. Luis in Puerto Rico
12:15 Rev. Fr. Andrew Buechele, Sch.P.-Intentions;
Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus and Intentions for Julio Diaz
7:00 S (Sp) +Epifanio Policarpio, Luis Basurto, Celerina Porfirio & Paulino Gonzalez Bautista
December 3 – Thursday – St. Francis Xavier
6:30* In Thanksgiving for Favors
8:30 S +David Sheehan
12:15 +Michael Guido; Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus & Intentions for Julio Diaz
December 4 – Friday – St. John Damascene
6:30* In Thanksgiving for Favors
8:30 S +James Hall
11:00 Cremains Mass- +Anne Dorman
12:15 +Noemi Cross-Birthday Remembrance;
Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus and Intentions for Julio Diaz
December 5 – Saturday – St. Sabas
6:30* Alessandra Mia Savino’s Utmost Facility to Achieve Salvation and for a Close and Loving Relationship with Her Paternal Grandmother
8:30 S +Babina Ortega and Rafael Nunez
12:15 +Eduardo Bruno
5:30 +Melchora Abordo; Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus & Intentions for Julio Diaz
December 6 – Second Sunday of Advent
8:00 +Mildred and Walter Murphy;
10:00 S +Stephanie Fijalkowski; Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus & Intentions for Julio Diaz
12:00 S (Sp) +Catalina Carrera, Petra Feliciano, Lorenza Morales y los defuntos del Mundo de Parte de Leobardia Refugio; Ana Maribel Alley, Maria Valladares and Maribel Alley For a Safe Trip to and From Their Destination
5:00 +Katherine Callaghan
6:30 S (Fr) +Margaret Bongyii and Raphael Mbinkar
It took just 45 minutes for St. Helena to give away over 200 bags of food on Tuesday, November 24, in front of the Green Building. Thank you to the many volunteers who helped pack the canned goods into bags and who gave out the produce.
Our Lady of the Cloud Mass on November 1 at St. Helena
All Souls Day Food Pantry at St. Helena on November 2
Cardinal Dolan celebrates the 10AM Family Mass at St. Helena
Mass Intentions – S=Mass will be live-streamed +=Deceased *Not a Public MassNovember 22 – Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
8:00 +Bernard Reilly
10:00 S +Luis M. Capellan;
Prayer of the Faithful: +Felipe A. Rivas
12:00 S (Sp) +Miguel Martinez; George Hernandez accion de gracias birthday;
+Hrmas. Patria Moretta & Altagracia Lora Mejia -Our Lady of Perpetual Help Order-10th Anniversary; +Juan Rivera; Diego Pena-6 Year Old;
Jacqueline French and Nancy Rosado, Health Intention
5:00 +Mary T. Early
6:30 S (Fr) +Margaret and Raphael Mbinkar
November 23 – Monday – Sts. Clement I and Columban
6:30* MaryAnn Wyzykiewicz Intentions
8:30 S For Brenda and Scott Van de Weghe’s Spiritual and Temporal Needs
12:15 John Henrahan-Healing Intention;
Prayer of the Faithful: In Thanksgiving for Favors Granted
November 24 – Tuesday – St. Andrew Düng-Lac & Companions
6:30* Stephen M. Wyzykiewicz Intentions
8:30 S In Thanksgiving for Favors
12:15 +Altagracia, Carmen, Manuel and Jose Capellan
Prayer of the Faithful: Mr. Giordano
November 25 – Wednesday – St. Catherine of Alexandria
6:30* Lynne Wyzykiewicz Intentions
8:30 S David and Sandra Savino’s Spiritual and Temporal Needs
12:15 +Margaret O. Farrell
7:00 S (Sp) +Carmen Rita
November 26 – Thursday – St. Silvester Gozzolini
6:30* Murphy and Warneke Families
8:30 S David Sheehan-In Thanksgiving and Continuous Healing
12:15 Deceased Members of the Cerbone Family
November 27 – Friday – St. Virgil
6:30* +Dorothy and Stephen Wyzykiewicz
8:30 S +Mary Jose Cabral
12:15 +Margaret O’Sullivan
November 28 – Saturday – Presentation of the Virgin Mary
6:30* In Thanksgiving for Favors
8:30 S +Stephanie Fijalkowski
12:15 +Antonio Colon
5:30 For Protection and Divine Assistance for Therese Diallo
Prayer of the Faithful: In Thanksgiving for Favors Granted
November 29 – First Sunday of Advent
8:00 +Anselmo Retutas and Trinidad Retutas;
Prayer of the Faithful: +Monserratte Torrence
10:00 S +Alan Seeram; Prayer of the Faithful: +Carlos de Jesus & Julio Diaz-Intention
12:00 S (Sp) Richard Serrano-Birthday Intention;
+Juana Altagracia Montan and Hipolito Arias
5:00 +Dorothy Olsson
6:30 S (Fr) Reneé Antoine-Birthday Intention
Names only said in Prayer of the Faithful are in Italics
I came to Adoration today to visit God. I didn’t stay long, but He knew I was there. Thank you, St. Helena, for that.
Religious Education Registration Closes October 31
Now is the time to register your child for Religious Education Classes. Your child can attend either in-person or virtually or be homeschooled. You must register your child again even if they were registered last year. Fr. Richard is at the back of the church after every Mass, or you can call him at 718-892-3232.
Registro de Educación Religiosa
Ahora es el momento de inscribir a su hijo en las clases de educación religiosa. Su hijo puede asistir en persona o virtualmente o ser educado en casa. Usted debe registrar a su hijo de nuevo, incluso si se registraron el año pasado. El Padre Richard está en la parte de atrás de la iglesia después de cada misa, o pueden llamarlo al 718-892-3232.
No, our boiler was not invaded by a huge swarm of African Killer Bees. In preparation for the upcoming heating season, we are replacing and repairing the glass rods that help produce the steam that will keep our church nice and warm.
St. Helena hosted the 43rd Precinct Build the Block Community Meeting in our Parking Lot.
The gym floor is getting sanded and repainted.
The church is open for weekday and weekend Masses. Daily Mass is at 8:30AM and 12:15PM and weekend Masses are on Sat. at 5:30PM and Sunday at 8AM, 10AM, 12:15PM in Spanish, 5PM, and 7PM in French. We are cleaning the church after every Mass but more cleaners are still needed. If you can help, please contact the rectory.
August 18 is the Feast of St. Helena, and we have a relic of St. Helena and a coin minted in AD 325 that commemorates her being crowned as Augusta (Empress).
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables for Older New Yorkers
Good nutrition is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it’s not always easy. So, to help older adults purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, the NYC Department for the Aging’s annual Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program provides low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Participants receive coupons that can be used to purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, and fresh-cut herbs for cooking at participating farmer's markets and farm stands.
Older adults can apply online through the website: nyc.gov/aging. Coupon booklets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
For older adults in need of supplemental meals, the City continues to deliver emergency meals through the City’s GetFoodNYC initiative, which continues enrollment for older adults during the pandemic.
Older Adult Technology Services provides online virtual programs through their website: seniorplanet.org
To learn more about these and other programs for seniors, call 212-244-6469.
Public Masses at St. Helena have Resumed on a Limited Basis
Only the weekday 8:30AM (live-streamed), 12:15PM, and the 7PM Divine Mercy Chaplet and 7:30PM Wednesday Spanish Mass are open to the public, as are the NEW weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil 5:30PM, Sunday: 8AM, 10AM (live-streamed), NOON (Spanish and live-streamed), 5PM, 7PM (French and live-streamed). You must enter through the front door unless you are handicapped, wear a mask or you will not be admitted into the church, and the mask must be worn at all times. You must either wear gloves or sanitize your hands before entering the church. An usher will escort you to your seat and will guide you to communion and to leave the church at the end of Mass. Here are the new guidelines:General Guidelines
Our Parish Office hours at St. Helena are 9AM-4:30PM.
Parishes have resumed weekday Mass, baptisms, weddings, and funerals at 25% of the capacity of the church provided that physical distancing and other guidelines are followed. For us, that number is 125 people. At St. Helena, our weekday public Masses are currently Mon-Sat 8:30AM live-streamed and 12:15PM; Wednesday live-streamed Spanish Mass at 7:30PM with Divine Mercy Novena at 7PM.
Sunday Masses are 5:30PM Saturday Vigil Mass; Sunday Mass at 8AM, 10AM (live-streamed English Mass), NOON (live-streamed Spanish Mass), 5PM, and 7PM (live-streamed French Mass.) For the time being, there will be NO ALTAR SERVERS.The church will be open M-Sat for Mass and personal prayer from 8AM - 6:30PM. The church will be open on Sundays from 7:30AM-8:30PM.
Adoration will be every Thursday from 9AM-NOON and on First Friday from 1-6:30PM.
We will have the Miraculous Medal Novena on Mondays following the 12:15PM Mass and the Sacred Heart Novena before the 12:15PM Mass on Thursdays. The Rosary is prayed after the 12:15PM Mass on Wednesday. We will distribute prayer sheets which CANNOT BE LEFT IN THE PEW but should be taken home and brought back each week.
Until further notice, there will be no fliers, bulletins, or missalettes in the church. Any informational literature must be personally handed to the people only AS THEY ARE LEAVING the church.
Certain precautions must be taken (wearing of masks at all times, maintaining a six-foot distance, no physical contact except for communion, sanitizing of hands, and sanitizing of surfaces). You WILL NOT be admitted into the church without a face mask. You should bring a personal hand sanitizer with you to church.
You will enter only through the designated door in the front of the church and will leave through either the side door or the designated front door of the church. Only the handicapped will be permitted to enter the church through the side door. The Sacristy bathroom is no longer available for public use.
A greeter will be present to count the people. Once the maximum number of 125 people has been reached, the greeter will not admit anyone else into the church.
The Holy Water fonts will be empty.
For the time being, the priest is not permitted to greet the people after Mass. Per the direction of the Archdiocese, the celebrant and concelebrants are required to wear masks only when distributing Holy Communion.
You must sit only in designated seating. There are some rows that cannot be used, and there are other pews designated for single individuals, couples, and families. The church will now only accommodate about 125 people, and once that number has been reached at any given Mass no one else will be allowed into the church. All present should sit six feet or more away from others. Couples and families may sit together.
During Holy Communion, the ushers will guide the people to receive communion. They will begin with the people in the back and work their way forward. There are blue lines on the floor marking where the people may stand as they progress toward the front in single file down the center aisle, and the people will return to their seats by way of the side aisles.
You are reminded that for now there is no requirement to come back to Mass. Those who are at a greater risk of COVID-19 (those older than 65 or who have underlying health conditions) are cautioned not to come to church for Mass. You may join us only when you feel safe and comfortable to do so. His Eminence has dispensed everyone from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass at this time. As an alternative, Mass may be viewed online or on TV, and the act of spiritual communion may be used instead of receiving the Eucharist. To view the live-streamed Mass in English, Spanish, or French from St. Helena, go to www.facebook.com/St.HelenaBronx and click on the video tab.
Please remember that we rely on your continued support of St. Helena and the archdiocese. You are encouraged to mail in your offertory envelopes, bring them to the rectory, drop them in the offertory box in the church, or contribute by way of online giving, which is the WeShare tab on the right-hand side of our parish website: www.churchofsthelena.com.
There is also new information about the virus itself, which will continue to drive decision making. Now we are told the virus can live in the air for three hours, surfaces are less likely to cause transmission, children may be affected, infected people may get re-infected, and masks are more important than originally thought.
*****************************************************************************************
On June 14, the Church celebrated the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. St. Helena Church in the Bronx held the traditional Corpus Christi Procession around the church parking lot
THE BLESSING OF PARKCHESTER
Confessions by Appointment, 718-892-3232. or on Saturdays from 4-5:15PM.
New York City is delivering meals to seniors and others who cannot leave their homes. You can call 311 or visit nyc.gov/getfood to learn more.
NYC is opening COVID testing sites citywide. Call 1-888-ONEMED1 or go to onemedical.com and use code NYCCARE30
Anyone with symptoms or questions about COVID-19 can call 844-NYC-4NYC to connect to a medical provider free of charge 9AM-9PM.
Cualquier persona con síntomas o preguntas sobre COVID-19 puede llamar al 844-NYC-4NYC para conectarse con un proveedor médico de forma gratuita de 9AM a 9PM.
FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLSWe hope this letter finds you and your family healthy. The Health and Safety Task Force of the Office of the Superintendent of Schools felt it important to share new information, based upon materials from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.”
Health experts in New York and across the country are investigating cases of Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome (PMIS). This new health condition has been appearing in children in New York City and elsewhere. Investigations are also being conducted into the possible association between PMIS and COVID-19 in children. Some doctors think the condition is related to having COVID-19, but the connection is still not clear. Linked here is a Fact Sheet from the NYC Health Department which I encourage you to review.
PMIS is a rare condition; however, because it is life-threatening, it is vital to know the signs. Most children have a persistent, high fever lasting several days, along with other symptoms, including:
• Irritability or sluggishness
• Abdominal pain without another explanation
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Rash
• Conjunctivitis, or red or pink eyes
• Enlarged lymph node (“gland”) on one side of the neck
• Red, cracked lips or red tongue that looks like a strawberry
• Swollen hands and feet, which might also be red
You should call your doctor if your child becomes ill and has had continued fever. Your doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and use that information to recommend the next steps. As always, if your child is severely ill, you should go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 immediately.
Although it is not yet known whether it is associated with COVID-19, it is essential parents and children take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
For regularly updated information about the coronavirus crisis as it relates to our schools, please continue to visit our website CatholicSchoolsNY.org.
Our archdiocesan health care ministry, ArchCare, continues to do heroic work caring for our beloved seniors. As a reminder, if you have questions or other health-related concerns, call their hotline at 877-239-1998. If you are experiencing other challenges, our Catholic Charities stands ready to lend assistance wherever possible. Do not hesitate to call them at 888-744-7900.
Sincerely,Mr. Michael J. Deegan Superintendent of Schools Archdiocese of New York
-
SPECIAL COMING EVENTS
The gym is getting a much-needed facelift. Construction began on Wednesday. The sides are being replaced, and the floor will be sanded and sealed. The project is expected to take about two weeks to complete and will be ready for the start of the new school year.
FACTS ABOUT DEALING WITH A VIRUSA Virus is not a living organism, and there is no such thing as ‘killing the virus’. The following advice is from an Asst. Prof in infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University. He explains how to deal with a virus, and I share it with you because it is VERY CLEAR:
* A virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and converts them into aggressor and multiplier cells.
* Since a virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed but decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity, and the type of material where it lies.
* A virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy because the foam CUTS the FAT (that is why you have to rub so much (for 20 seconds or more) to make a lot of foam. By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.
* HEAT melts fat; this is why it is so good to use water above 25 degrees Celsius for washing hands, clothes, and everything. In addition, hot water makes more foam and that makes it even more useful.
* Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 65% DISSOLVES ANY FAT, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.
* Any mix with 1 part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein and breaks it down from the inside.
* Oxygenated water helps long after soap, alcohol, and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the virus protein, but you have to use it pure and it hurts your skin.
* NO BACTERICIDE HELPS. A virus is not a living organism like bacteria; antibiotics cannot kill what is not alive, but some quickly disintegrate a virus' structure.
* NEVER shake used or unused clothing, sheets, or cloth. While it is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only between 3 hours (fabric and porous), 4 hours (copper, because it is naturally antiseptic), 4 hours (wood, of which the pews of St. Helena are made because it removes all the moisture and does not let it peel off and so it disintegrates), 24 hours (cardboard), 42 hours (metal), and 72 hours (plastic). But if you shake the surface or use a feather duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours, and some could then lodge in your nose.
* The virus molecules remain very stable in external cold, or artificial cold as in the air conditioners found in houses and cars. They also need moisture and especially darkness to stay stable. Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm, and bright environments will degrade it faster.
* UV LIGHT on any object that may contain a virus breaks down the virus protein. For example, to disinfect and reuse a mask is perfect. Be careful, however, because it also breaks down collagen (which is protein) in the skin and could eventually cause wrinkles and skin cancer.
* The virus CANNOT go through healthy skin.
* Vinegar is NOT useful because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.
* NO SPIRITS, NOT EVEN VODKA, helps because the strongest vodka is 40% alcohol, and you need 65% alcohol.
* LISTERINE CAN help provide it is 65% alcohol.
* The more confined the space, the greater the concentration of the virus can be present. The more open or naturally ventilated the space, the less viral concentration will be present.
* This is SUPER IMPORTANT! You have to wash your hands before and after touching mucosa, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote control, cell phone, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc. And especially after having used the bathroom.
* You have to KEEP HANDS DRY after so much washing because the molecules can easily hide in the skin's micro-cracks, and the thicker the moisturizer, the better.
* Also, keep your NAILS SHORT so that the virus does not hide there.
NYC students can pick up 3 free meals daily from 7:30AM-1:30PM, M-F at 400 NYC sites. For more info,visit: https://schools.nyc.gov/freemeals
los estudiantes de la ciudad de Nueva York pueden recoger 3 comidas gratis al día de 7:30 a 13:30, de lunes a viernes en 400 sitios de la ciudad de Nueva York: https://schools.nyc.gov/freemeals
To access Daily Mass, visit: www.facebook.com/St.HelenaBronx
and click VIDEO on the left-hand column.
-
PARISH AND LOCAL News
-
November 27Grace to you, and peace, as we, like the Samaritan leper, who had more struggles than joys, give thanks to God with the hope of a better tomorrow. As you know, late last night, the United States Supreme Court issued an emergency writ of injunction in a case brought by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn against New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo, in which the diocese alleged that the COVID-19 restrictions on church attendance in red and orange zones violate the diocese’s fundamental right to the free exercise of religion protected by the United States Constitution. The Supreme Court decision blocks the implementation of capacity restrictions in red and orange zones because they treat houses of worship differently than other institutions and businesses in New York. The decision will remain in effect until the court can hear the case in full after briefing and oral argument. While the injunction addresses the dispute of the Diocese of Brooklyn, its practical impact is to void these state-imposed capacity restrictions on houses of worship in the red and orange zones across the state. 2 Effective immediately, the attendance restriction for our churches will remain at 50% of maximum capacity regardless of whether the parish is located in a red, orange, or yellow zone, or in no zone, as always subject to the two-meter physical distancing guideline. If there are any changes to these limitations arising from future state-imposed restrictions or by a final determination of the Diocese of Brooklyn case, we will inform you immediately. We are grateful to the United States Supreme Court for recognizing and protecting our right to the free exercise of religion enshrined in the United States Constitution. Again, a blessed Thanksgiving.Read More
-
November 23The St. Helena Thanksgiving Food Pantry will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 24 at 11:30AM at the Green Building.Read More
-
November 12Dear Parishioners: As New York State experiences a surge in COVID cases and hospitalizations, today Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced new restrictions that will go into effect on Friday, November 13th, at 10PM. The new restrictions include: Bars, restaurants, and any establishment with a state liquor license will be required to close in-person service from 10PM to 5AM daily. Restaurants can continue to provide food-only pick-up or delivery after 10PM, but will not be permitted to serve alcohol to go. Gyms and fitness centers must close daily from 10PM to 5AM. Indoor and outdoor gatherings at private residences must be limited to no more than 10 people. According to the Governor’s office, local governments will be responsible for enforcing these new restrictions. While I urge you to remain calm, it is important to remember that the pandemic is not over yet – our communities must stay vigilant and continue to take the necessary precautions to keep flattening the curve. This includes wearing a mask outside of your home, maintaining six feet apart from others, frequently washing your hands, staying home if you are sick, and following New York State travel and quarantine guidelines. I also encourage you to keep utilizing the free COVID diagnostic and antibody testing sites in District 34. St. Helena will become a COVID-19 Self-testing Site from November 30-December 12. Test and Trace staff will be onsite and will assist you in using self-swab testing kits. These tests are less invasive and more comfortable, and self swab tests provide results within 48 hours. The tests are commercially available but provided free of charge through the city and will be a great resource for St. Helena parishioners as well as Parkchester residents.Read More
-
November 10Back in September, Loving The Bronx installed a community refrigerator filled with free food for the taking in the Parkchester area of the borough thanks to the generosity of Brewski’s Bar and Grill who purchased a brand new double glass door commercial refrigerator for the effort. Located inside Circle Green Farms deli and grocery at 80 Hugh Grant Circle, the refrigerator is accessible to anyone in need, no questions asked (all is asked that one be mindful that there are others in need as well) and is available 7 days a week between 7AM and 7PM.Read More
-
October 29On November 2, All Souls Day, we pray for the Holy Souls in Purgatory who are being purified before entering Heaven. The celebration of a special day began in some monasteries in the 6th century, and by the 10th century spread to dioceses, becoming fixed in some places to November 2nd, the day after All Saints Day. This date was adopted in Rome in the 13th century. Plenary or full indulgences traditionally obtained during the first week of November for the souls of the faithful in purgatory can now be gained throughout the entire month of November, the Vatican said. Also, those who are ill or homebound and would not be able to physically visit a church or cemetery in the prescribed timeframe still will be able to receive a plenary indulgence when meeting certain conditions, the Apostolic Penitentiary, a Vatican tribunal that deals with matters of conscience, said in a notice released Oct. 23. The tribunal also asked that priests be particularly generous throughout November in offering the sacrament of reconciliation and in administering Communion to those who are infirm. The new provisions were made after many bishops asked for guidance as to how the faithful could perform the works required for receiving a plenary indulgence given the ongoing pandemic and restrictions in many parts of the world limiting the number of people who can gather in one place. Traditionally, the faithful could receive a full indulgence each day from Nov. 1 to Nov. 8 when they visited a cemetery to pray for the departed and fulfilled other conditions, and especially when they went to a church or an oratory to pray on Nov. 2, All Souls’ Day. The Vatican decided to extend the time one can receive a full indulgence to include the whole month of November, he said. Typically, only a partial indulgence is granted after the first week of November. The full indulgence traditionally offered Nov. 2 for those who visit a church or an oratory and recite the Our Father and the Creed can this year also be gained any day in November. Those who cannot leave their homes or residence for “serious reasons,” which includes government restrictions during a pandemic, he said, also can receive a plenary indulgence after reciting specific prayers for the deceased or reflecting on a Gospel reading designated for Masses of the dead before an image of Jesus or the Blessed Virgin Mary, or by performing a work of mercy. In all cases, one also must fulfill the normal requirements set by the church for all plenary indulgences, which demonstrate a resolve to turn away from sin and convert to God. Those conditions include: having a spirit detached from sin; going to confession as soon as possible; receiving the Eucharist as soon as possible; praying for the pope’s intentions; and being united spiritually with all the faithful. The church teaches that prayer, particularly the Mass, and sacrifices may be offered on behalf of the souls in purgatory. The feast of All Souls differs from the Nov. 1 feast of All Saints precisely because it offers prayers for the eternal peace and heavenly rest of all those who died in a state of grace, but not totally purified. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death, they undergo purification so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.”Read More
-
-
SHOP ON AMAZON AND SUPPORT ST. HELENA
CUSTOMERS SHOP, AMAZON GIVES
AmazonSmile is a website operated by Amazon that lets customers enjoy the same
wide selection of products, low prices, and convenient shopping features as on
Amazon.com. The difference is that when customers shop on AmazonSmile
(smile.amazon.com), the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the price
of eligible purchases to St. Helena when selected by customers.
So, SMILE and shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/13-1740343
and AmazonSmile will donate to St. Helena Parish.
-
St. Helena - Feast August 18
-
Photo Albums
-
Parish Photos 2020
95 Photos
-
Parish Photos 2018
122 Photos
-
Parish Photos 2017
41 Photos
-
Parish Photos 2019
161 Photos
-
Parish History
51 Photos
-
-
Today's Readings
-
Reading 1 IS 26:1-6Responsorial Psalm PS 118:1 AND 8-9, 19-21, 25-27AGospel MT 7:21, 24-27
-
-
PAST PARISH EVENTS
Great Gatsby Gala was a hit, sponsored by the Calasanz Movement Youth Group.
Puerto Rican Earthquake Relief
A large number of items have been collected both from the parish and from the school for the Puerto Rican Earthquake Relief Effort. Parishioners can still bring in diapers, canned food goods, batteries, blankets, water, and other items (please, no clothes). Items should be brought to the rectory by Friday, January 24.
The priestly ordination at St. Helena of Frs. Pedro Rivas, Sch.P. and Manuel Sanchez, Sch.P. and the diaconate ordination of Deacon Orlando Rodriquez, Sch.P. at St. Helena.
Jason Reyes, a freshman at Cristo Rey High School draws the last winning 50/50 envelope of 2019. It only costs $5 to enter and envelopes are in your packet or at the back of the church.
This past Saturday, State Senator Luis Sepulveda gave St. Helena Parish a Proclamation Certificate thanking us for all the good work that we have been doing in the community.
Our annual Multicultural Mass on Wed., November 27.
d of September 14-15 as the parish celebrated its patronal feast The Exaltation of the Cross.
The new Youth Group known as the Calasanz Movement held a Youth Mass at 10:30AM on August 25, the Feast of St. Joseph Calasanz, and the new members of the group received a blessing.
The May Crowning of the statue of Our Blessed Mother.
Social Emotional Boot Camp was the title of the TACT production put on by teacher Sue Stern at the school.
ALVAREZ FEATURED IN NEW YORK TIMES ARTICLE
One of our choir members, Janell Alvarez, was featured in a recent New York Times article about the Bronx Conservatory of Music entitled "Saturdays in the Bronx with Bach." Nearly every weekend for the past 28 years, local children have flocked to the Bronx Conservatory of Music for very low-cost instruction in classical music. Janell Alvarez, 16, has attended the conservatory since she was 7, first as a student of piano and later of voice. When changes at her local church, St. Helena’s in Parkchester, left one of its Masses without an organist, Janell trained to fill in for the role. She now performs at the 5 p.m. service every Sunday.
Some 2019 St. Helena School Science Fair entries.
The USS Helena
Our Annual Thanksgiving Multicultural Mass
THE PILGRIM STATUE OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE will be at St. Helena until Saturday, August 31.
FIRST ST. HELENA MARDI GRAS MASQUERADE BALL
Despite the pouring rain, 120 people attended the Masquerade Ball, which took place Saturday evening in the gymnasium. The Ball was organized by the St. Helena ABC Youth group and featured a Bomba Dance Troop and a live Jazz Band. There was lots of good New-Orleans style food, and a fun time was had by all.
Ecuadorian Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Youth Group collected and brought toys for the children at Jacobi Hospital on January 6, the traditional feast of the Three Kings.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDWe are proud to report that The Church of St. Helena received this Community Service Award at the Fourth Annual Community Board Nine Recognition Dinner on Friday, September 8, which was held at the Bronx YMCA.
WE NEED YOUR LABELS FOR EDUCATIONThe Labels for Education program is coming to a close. Only UPC submissions with the Labels for Education logo will be accepted and redeemed for points. All submissions must be postmarked no later than January 2, 2018, in order to be deposited into our schools’ bank account. We currently have 1,447 points. Look for the Labels for Education logo on these products: Campbells, Pace, Pepperidge Farm, SpaghettiOs, Swanson, and V8. Labels can either be brought to the rectory or placed in the collection basket.
-
Catholic News Service
-
DONATE TO ST. HELENA
-
Some MASSES NOW VIRTUAL
St. Helena is now live-streaming our Community Mass every weekday at 8:30AM in English and on Sundays at 10AM.
The Spanish Mass will be live-streamed on Sundays at NOON.
To access the Mass on your computer or smartphone either at the time of live-teaming or at any time of the day go to: www.facebook.com/St.HelenaBronx and click on the VIDEO tab. -
Flocknote Signup
-
Mass Times
- Saturday: 5:30 PM EnglishEnglishEN (with Music)
- Sunday: 8:00 AM EnglishEnglishEN (with music) 10:00 AM EnglishEnglishEN Family Mass (Adult Choir) 12:00 PM SpanishEspañolES (Spanish Choir) 5:00 PM EnglishEnglishEN (with music) 7:00 PM FrenchFrançaisFR
- Monday: 7:00 PM SpanishEspañolES Charismatic Mass every FIRST MONDAY of the month.
- MonFri 8:30 AM EnglishEnglishEN also Sat. (and morning prayer) 12:15 PM EnglishEnglishEN also Sat.
- Wednesday: 7:00 PM SpanishEspañolES
-
HOLY DAY & SACRAMENT SCHEDULE
HOLY DAY MASSES:
Vigil: 7:00 PM (Spanish)
Holy Day: 8:30 AM, 12:15 PM, 7:30 PM
STATIONS OF THE CROSS:
Every Friday during Lent: following the 12:15 PM Mass (English), 6:00 PM (French), 7:00 PM (Spanish), 8:00 PM (English)
CONFESSION TIMES:
Every Saturday from 4 PM to 5:15 PM , or by appointment in the rectory.
ROSARY:
Every Wednesday, following the 12:15PM Mass.
Legion of Mary Rosary in Spanish every Saturday at 11:00AM in the Peralta Rectory Meeting Room.
BAPTISMS:
English: Every Sunday after 1:30 PM Mass
Español: 2 y 4 Sábados en 2:30 PM
BAPTISM PREPARATION CLASS:
Usually meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 PM in the Church. Register for the class at the rectory. You MUST bring BOTH a copy of the child's birth certificate as well as a copy of the Confirmation certificate of the godparents or a copy of the godparent's Catholic marriage certificate, if a godparent is married. A lletter of suitability from the godparent's Catholic pastor will also be accepted.
SICK AND DECEASED members of the parish are remembered in the Offertory Prayers. If you know of any current or former parishioners who are seriously ill or have passed, or you know of any sick parishioners who need Holy Communion brought to them, please contact the rectory at 718-892-3232 and let us know about their condition.
Announced and Unannounced Masses as well as Perpetual Mass Enrollment may be arranged at the rectory Mon.-Fri. from 8:30AM - 4:30PM.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CLASSES
Every Wednesday from September - June from 3:45 - 5PM, gathering in the Church.
RCIA CLASSES:
English classes meet every Sunday from 3-4PM or on Monday from 7-8PM in the Rectory Meeting Room from September - April.
Spanish classes meet every Sunday from 10-11:15AM in the Peralta Retory Meeting Room from September - June.
BIBLE STUDY CLASS meets every Tuesday at either 1PM or 7:30PM and every Sunday at 11:30AM in the Green Building.
BOY SCOUTS meet every Wednesday from 6:30-8:00PM in the cafeteria, while the. CUB SCOUTS meet every Saturday at 9:30AM in the Calasanz Room.
Al-Anon meets every Saturday at 11AM in the Green Building.
AA Big Book Study meets every Saturday at 7PM in the Green Builting.
CoDA meets every Monday at 7PM in the Peralta Rectory Meeting Room.
English Prayer Group meets every Saturday at 1PM in the Green Building.
Spanish Prayer Group meets every Monday at 7PM in the church.
St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta Group visits the Rebekah Nursing Home every Wednesday at 10AM, leaving from the church.
Calasanz Movement Youth Group meets every Friday at 7PM in the gym.
The Religious Goods Room is open every Sunday from 8:30AM-1:30PM.
Transportation: Take #6 Train to either Parkchester or Castle Hill or take the following buses: Bx22, Bx39, Bx4, Bx4A, or Q44.
Parish E-mail: sthelenarc@yahoo.com -
archways Magazine
-
Cardinal's Appeal
-
News from the Vatican
-
In a message for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Pope Francis issued a strong call that disabled persons must not be denied the sacraments.
-
On the 40th anniversary of the murder of four American missionaries in El Salvador, Vatican officials, including Pope Francis, have praised the women as martyrs and models of evangelization and of...
-
While sin may distort and disfigure the image of Christ that every person bears, it does not completely erase it, nor does it remove people from God's abundant mercy, Pope Francis said.
-
The approval decades ago of a Zairean rite of the Roman Missal demonstrated that it is possible also to develop a rite for the Amazon region, Pope Francis said in a preface to a new book.
-
Guaranteeing justice for all men and women is not possible while a few people control most of the world's wealth and everyone else's right to a dignified life is disregarded, Pope Francis said.
-
-
ST. HELENA (Feast: August 18)
Born in Bithynia, Asia Minor (present-day Turkey), circa 248, St. Helena was married to Roman Emperor Constantius and had a son who would become Constantine I, also known as Constantine the Great, the first Roman emperor to become a Christian. St. Helena, who converted as well, oversaw the construction of churches on Holy Land sites. She would later be credited with discovering the cross upon which Jesus Christ is believed to have been crucified. St. Helena died circa 328 in Nicomedia (present-day Turkey). Shown below, the door to the St. Helena Chapel in Bethlehem.
