Good News for June 17, 2026
- St. Raymond of Penafort
- Jun 17
- 6 min read
In this Issue:
Learning to Live My Faith Without Fear
~Dennis Mueller
Saint Albert the Great Church + Huntingdon Valley, Pa.
Jesus gets real about discipleship in this Gospel. He tells us plainly that there is a battle for our soul, and that following Him requires more than casual commitment. I know how easy it is to slip into half-measures or indifference and how quickly that leaves room for the Enemy to work.
I feel that tension every day. I want to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, but I also feel the pressure to blend in, avoid awkward conversations, and keep my faith tucked quietly out of sight so as not to be judged, misunderstood, or rejected. Jesus knows that about me and speaks into my fears directly with authority and tenderness when He says, “Do not be afraid.” Jesus isn’t offering sentimental comfort. He’s redirecting my gaze; inviting me to see myself the way the Father sees me. The Father knows my intentions, my struggles, and my sincere efforts to be faithful, including the motivations of my heart. “Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed.” God knows who I truly am, even when others don’t, and He loves me just the same. If God cares for the small, insignificant sparrow then how much more does He watch over and care for me?
The real test is when Jesus calls me to acknowledge Him before others. Love isn’t meant to be hidden. My words, choices, and priorities are meant to reveal who I belong to and who I love. So, I’m challenged to witness my love for Him in my workplace, family, and community, and I am convicted when I don’t – when I give into fear or the culture that prefers faith to stay private. Jesus reminds me that my witness matters, not just because it’s a testament of my love for Him, but also a real participation in His saving work.
And here’s the good news I think we can all cling to: We never walk this path alone. The Father sees and loves us. Christ stands with us. The Spirit strengthens and accompanies us. Our task is simply to be faithful, not fearful, and let our lives testify to our love for the One who calls us His own.
Celebrate our New Bathrooms this Sunday!
Please share in our thankfulness that the renovations to the bathrooms are complete. You are welcome to come downstairs to see the amazing work after all masses this weekend.
Following the 10 AM Mass on Sunday, join us for hospitality, a tour, and a special blessing by Fr. Zlock as we dedicate the newly renovated bathrooms.
Youth Summer Events - RSVP by June 19
All St. Raymond youth are welcome to attend!
Youth Day at Blue Bell Park - Friday, June 26.
Hike with Father Zlock at 11:30 am, then enjoy lots of food and games from 12–2 pm (flag football, cornhole, races, board games and more).
Dorney Park July 17
Details coming soon.
Juneteenth: A Pastoral Reflection on Racial Justice
Searching for: 12 St. Raymond Parishioners to Participate in a Conversation on Racial Healing
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. The ultimate goal of the Archbishop is to have Philadelphia be a model archdiocese where racial healing is not only part of the norm but part of the culture.
After three years of initiatives, programs, and discussions, the Commission is working with professionals to formulate a long-range strategic plan and integrate this into the Archbishop's "Trust and Hope" vision for the archdiocese. They are now in the process of laying out the steps to get to that plan.
An initial step is to hear the stories of the need for racial healing from parishioners. The Commission wants to hear from people who have experienced racism from the Church, society, or both. A moderated session will be scheduled.
We're looking for twelve parishioners who have remained active and also those who have left the Church because of their experiences. We're looking for a combination of twelve men and women: four high school or college students, four aged 30 - 50, and four aged 50 and above.
Please note: the initial meeting is one time only; no long-term commitment is expected at this time. Please prayerfully consider contacting Brandi (bwhitehead@saintraymond.net) or call her at 215-549-3760 to express your interest in learning more about this unique opportunity to address the sin of racism.
Youth Choir will sing June 20 at 5 PM Mass
Our Youth Choir will sing at the 5 pm Mass on Saturday, June 20. Come and enjoy their sweet sound!
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.
Charitable Initiatives for June
Provide a Meal in Kensington
Saint Raymond will sponsor a pizza dinner complete with water, fruit and dessert for about 200 of our brothers and sisters in Kensington. To contribute towards purchasing a meal, please donate here. Select "Charitable Giving" as the fund.
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.
Juneteenth Early Closing
The rectory office will close at noon on Friday, June 19, in honor of Juneteenth.
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, June 21st
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 14, 2026
Collection & Envelopes: $8,819.50
Church Maintenance: $575.00
School Appeal: $20.00
Total: $9,414.50
Special Collections
6/14 = Maintenance
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.
Mount Carmel Rummage Sale
Day Camp at Shring of Saint Katharine Drexel
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
See the latest news from the Archdiocese
See the June Newsletter here.
