Good News for July 1, 2026
- St. Raymond of Penafort
- Jul 1
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 2
In this Issue:
When Life Feels Heavy, He is Near
~Julia Lehman
Our Lady of Guadalupe + Doylestown, PA
This Gospel speaks to everyday life because Jesus meets us right in the middle of the things we quietly carry. So many of us move through our days with more on our hearts than we would ever say out loud. Some are caring for a parent who needs extra support, trying to stay patient even when they feel swamped with tasks. Others are balancing work, home, and responsibilities that never seem to slow down. And sometimes, it’s simply waking up already feeling tired from everything waiting ahead. Jesus doesn’t ask us to hide any of that or pretend we’re fine. He invites us to come to Him honestly, with whatever feels heavy or overwhelming.
I think of moments when I’m helping my parents through a difficult morning, trying to get them ready for the day and maybe answering the same questions over and over again or just being there for them when they’re having a hard day. In those moments, I’m aware of how much I’m carrying, and how easy it is to feel alone in it and sometimes how hard the days can be. Sometimes I have to pause and give my struggles to Him and say, “Lord, I need You right now,” and when I do that, something shifts. It doesn’t erase all my responsibilities, but it brings me some peace, a feeling that I’m not doing this by myself and how He is with me through all my struggles and all my days.
This Gospel reminds us that Jesus isn’t distant from our everyday struggles. He’s close to the people who feel worn down or overwhelmed and He is especially with the ones who feel overlooked with their struggles. Jesus doesn’t remove our struggles but instead, He stays with us in them. And somehow, that makes the weight feel a little more bearable. He stays with us through the long days, the heavy moments, and the responsibilities that leave us feeling worn down.
In those small prayers throughout the day, I remember that I am not carrying life alone, He is always with me.
Celebrate Red, White and Blue Birthday Week!
America's 250th birthday is almost here, and there's just no better place to celebrate than in our City of Brotherly Love. We wish you a safe and happy Fourth of July with family and friends.
Interested in Sharing Your Story? Attend an Informational Session August 1
If you have experienced racism from the Church, society, or both, The Archbishop's Commission on Racial Healing invites you to attend an informational session at St. Raymond Parish Saturday, August 1, at 10:00 a.m. in the Sister Rosemary Room. Anyone interested in learning more or sharing their experience is welcome to attend. There is no long-term commitment at this time. This is a one-time meeting to hear from parishioners and explain the Commission's work. To RSVP or learn more, please contact Brandi at brandi@saintraymond.net or call 215-549-3760.
The Archbishop's Commission of Racial Healing was founded in 2021 by Archbishop Nelson Pérez as an advisory body of laity, consecrated religious, and clergy to address the sin of racism in the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and Catholic Social Teaching.
After three years of initiatives, programs and discussions, the Commission is working on ultimate goal of the Archbishop -- to have Philadelphia be a model archdiocese where racial healing is not only part of the norm but part of the culture. They hope to formulate a long-range strategic plan and integrate this into the Archbishop's "Trust and Hope" vision for the archdiocese.
This initial step is to hear the stories of the need for racial healing from parishioners.
We're looking for parishioners who have remained active and also those who have left the Church because of their experiences. We're hoping for a combination of twelve men and women: four high school or college students, four aged 30 - 50, and four aged 50 and above.
Face Time with Jesus - July 6
Celebrate the close of the holiday weekend by spending some quiet time with Jesus and fellowship with our church family.
Youth Summer Events - Rescheduled!
All St. Raymond youth are welcome to attend!
Youth Day at Blue Bell Park
July 17 – hike with Father Zlock at 11:30am, followed by games and picnic from 12–2pm
Dorney Park
August 19
Sign up here for one or both of these events. (Please re-register even if you are already signed up the first time.
Next Youth Mass - July 5
Young faces will greet you as you arrive at the 10 am Mass. And you'll continue to see them as they proclaim the Word, take up the collection and serve as ushers at communion time during the Mass. Show them your appreciation with a smile!
Liturgical Dance Coming Soon!
Church Bus Driver Needed
We are seeking a reliable and responsible bus driver to transport parishioners to our 10 am Mass on the first Sunday of each month.
Requirements:
Valid driver’s license
Must pass a driver’s test (provided by the church)
Friendly, punctual, and dependable
If you’re interested in serving the community in this meaningful way, please contact Brandi at 215-549-3760 or email brandi@saintraymond.net.
Health Care for Clergy
Do you have a healthcare background? Do you love your Catholic faith and have a desire to help priests set and meet healthy living goals? Our archdiocese is seeking applications for a unique, mission-driven position dedicated to providing essential healthcare navigation and support for our clergy members. This role does not require hands-on clinical care. Please submit your resume to REC@metacareusa.com. Learn more.
Office Closed
St. Raymond's parish office will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. It will reopen Monday, July 6.
Mission Visit July 18 & 19
The Franciscan Missionaries of Hope is one of the (many) religious congregations that follow the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi. The congregation was founded in Kenya, East Africa, in 1993. The mission of the FMH is tied to their charism, which is giving hope through hospitality and pastoral counseling.
The Church in the developing world preaches the Gospel in word and in action. The priests and religious serving in the developing world are always expected to solve the problems and challenges of those whom they serve. And when material help is not available, these men and women of God must not turn the people of God away or close the doors of their convents and rectories.
Fr. Geoffrey Muga, a native of Kenya, East Africa, is a member of the FMH religious order. He has been a priest for 13 years. He is currently serving as Pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Roslyn, NY. He previously ministered in New Orleans, LA for 9 years. Father Muga will be visiting St. Raymond at all the Masses during the weekend of July 18 and 19.
Please give him a warm welcome and support his plea. It is a worthy cause. Additional information and collection envelopes will be in the back of the church.
Survey: Do you use Formed and/or Hallow?
We’re currently considering a partnership with Hallow and would love your feedback before we move forward. Please take the short survey here.
Gluten-Free Hosts
Do you require a gluten-free host due to a gluten intolerance or allergy? If so, please let our pastor or a member of the parish staff know so we can ensure your needs are accommodated at Mass.
Explore the Faith - Sunday, July 19th
These sessions are open for all people, Catholic or non-Catholic, who simply wish to learn more about Catholicism and enter into deeper conversations about the Church.
Financial Facts
Sunday, June 28, 2026
Collection & Envelopes: $9,787.50
Church Maintenance: $577.00
Campaign-Human Development: $200.00
Social Ministry: $20.00
REST: $10.00
Home Missions: $10.00
Total: $10,604.50
Special Collections
7/5 - Human Development
7/26 - Maintenance and Repairs
Summertime Giving
Too often, our collections taken during the summer months decline when our parishioners go away on vacation. Make a plan to give electronically, or put a little extra in the basket before you leave. Be mindful that air-conditioning the church is costly!
Cell Phone Reminder
Once again, we need to remind everyone to silence their cell phones during Mass. Unexpected electronic sounds lead others to lose their focus during a time that all hold sacred. We ask you, please, to honor this request and double-check your phone when you enter church.
National Eucharistic Pilgrimage
July 2-5, 2026 - Volunteers Needed!
Event: The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage culminates in Philadelphia
To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the USA, the United States Bishops are sponsoring a Eucharistic Pilgrimage that will bring our Eucharistic Lord along the east coast, ending in the City of Philadelphia the weekend of July 4th. Join us at the Cathedral for the culminating events, including:
Continuous Eucharistic Adoration at the Cathedral from July 2nd to 4th (Adorers needed: Click here to sign up for a time slot)
Mass and Confessions
Service projects
Screenings of the film Cabrini (Click here for tickets)
Solemn Eucharistic Procession from the Cathedral to the Shrine of St. John Neumann (Volunteers needed: Serve as a Procession Marshall - Click here for details)
Location: Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
More info: For more details, view the flyer or visit archphila.org/underGod.
Free Registration for Catholic Women's Conference Available
This event sells out each year, so sign up soon!
The Catholic Women's Conference will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
Through the generosity of the Martin de Porres Foundation, the registration fee will be covered. Bus transportation to/from St Raymond will also be available. Anyone interested should contact mintabrown@saintraymond.net.
Come and Rest Awhile Silent Directed Retreat
July 26 – August 2, 2026
Mother Boniface Spirituality Center • Philadelphia
Step away from the noise and come home to stillness. This silent retreat offers private rooms, nourishing meals, daily Mass, peaceful grounds, and optional spiritual direction.
Unable to stay a full week? Shorter stays are possible, with cost adjusted to the length of participation. Scholarships may be available as well.
Learn more or register: msbt.org/mbsc 267‑350‑1830