Good News for June 3, 2026
- St. Raymond of Penafort
- Jun 3
- 10 min read
In this Issue:
The Glory of the Eucharist
~Jeannette Williams
Our Lady of Sacred Heart +Hilltown, Pa.
Corpus Christi is my favorite feast. I named my daughter Christina after this feast day. In my humble opinion, it is the most important of feasts, because all of Jesus’ love is rolled up in the Eucharist. St. Maximilian Kolbe said, “If angels could be jealous of men, they would be so for one reason: Holy Communion.” Angels can’t receive Holy Communion. Yet Jesus said to us mere humans, “Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me and I in him.” In the Eucharist, Jesus the Bridegroom unites with each of us, the Bride. We are united to God!
“I am the Living Bread that came down from heaven.” The Eucharist is Heaven on earth! When we kneel before the Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle, we are both on earth and in the heavenly throne room, because Jesus, in His glorified Body, is outside space and time. So when we kneel before Him in Adoration, we are in the here and now; we are in the eternity of Heaven; and we are present at every moment of His life, from His Incarnation to His Resurrection, which was all gathered together at the Last Supper when He said, “This is My Body, given for you.”
The great Archbishop Fulton Sheen said, “The greatest love story of all time is contained in a tiny white Host.” There is no greater sign of Jesus’ love than the Eucharist. He has hidden His identity in the Eucharist even more than when He was a baby in the manger. He has made Himself even more helpless than when He was nailed to the cross. He has done all this so that He could be with us.
When I started visiting Jesus frequently during the week, my spiritual life changed. Now, to me, nothing matters more than Jesus in the Eucharist. And now, all my prayers for my children focus on growing their faith in Jesus in the Eucharist – or bringing them back to Him – because when they have that love for Him in the Eucharist, everything else will fall into place.
Jesus is in the tabernacle, and He wants us to visit Him, so that He can lavish His love upon us. But we, too, will comfort Him when we go to Him and return His love. So please, visit often! As St. Gemma Galgani said, “Let us go to Jesus. He is all alone and hardly anyone thinks of Him. Poor Jesus!”
Congratulations, Graduates!
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the following graduates on this important milestone in their lives:
Zoe Banks (8th), Lilly Jones (8th), Ma’Lan Rose (8th); Antonio Hunt Jr. (12th), Sahir Whiting (12th), Akinlolu Onibalusi (12th), Holland Durham (Temple University) and Jessica Wynn (College/University).
May God bless you as you celebrate your accomplishments and begin this new chapter. We are proud of your hard work, dedication, and achievements, and we pray for God's guidance and blessings on your future endeavors. Congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2026!
Fr Kevin shared a special blessing with our graduates at the 10am Mass a few weeks ago.
A Beautiful Night in His Presence
FaceTime with Jesus kicked off the summer weather on June 1 with a beautiful night of adoration followed by pizza, wings and s'mores by the fire. Didn't get to join this time? No worries! We host it every first Monday of the month and hope to see you next time on July 6.
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. The Commission would like to schedule a moderated session over 10 weeks (beginning date to be determined).
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.
Faith Formation & Sacrament Prep
Family Faith Formation last Sunday was a wonderful experience for all who attended. Families came together to grow in faith and strengthen their relationship with God. We are grateful for Joan and Emily who helped make the day such a success.
Want to join the next gathering? There is still time! Register now.
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.
First Monthly Youth Mass is June 7 at 10 AM
Thanks to feedback from our youth, we’re excited to announce that the first Sunday of every month will now be our Youth Mass at 10am! The Bethany Team will be led by our young people. They will be greeting you as you arrive for Mass, serving as ushers, bringing up the gifts, and more.
They are excited! Please show them your support.
What’s New for Youth
Here’s what’s coming: Social Events:
Youth Day at Blue Bell Park June 26– hike with Father Zlock at 11:30 am, followed by games and lots of food from 12–2 pm (flag football, cornhole, races, board games and more).
Dorney Park Trip – July 17 - Details coming soon. Sign up now to share your interest.
Plus more on the way: Philly sporting event, laser tag, and a youth retreat!
Church + Leadership Opportunities:
We’re launching a new once-monthly, youth-focused 10 am Mass, featuring a youth choir, youth lectors, and the Bethany Youth Team, where you’ll help greet, usher, and bring up the gifts. There are also opportunities to serve as a Eucharistic Minister and to help with Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW)—working with younger kids during Mass throughout the month.
Get started:
Eucharistic Minister Training – coming soon (stay tuned)
Help with Children's Liturgy of the Word - schedule coming soon
Youth liturgical dance - planning is in progress
Youth Choir - planning is in progress
Parishioner, Sean Bradley, Wins Photo Contest!
Congratulations to parishioner, Sean Bradley, on his award winning photos!
He won first place in the 2026 People’s Choice in the sunrise/sunset category.
He placed third in the landscape category.
Fr. Zlock shares the latest construction update
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.
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.
Baby Bottles for Guiding Star Due June 6-7
Guiding Star Maternity Home is a maternity home in Germantown that supports pregnant women and their children by providing safe housing and life skills for future success. If you haven't yet returned your donation bottle with your contribution, please return it this weekend, June 6-7. Your generosity helps provide care, stability, and opportunity for families in need. Thank you for your support!
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
Join us for an opportunity to have an in-depth conversation about Catholic belief. Ask questions you may have been pondering for many years; learn more about the message and mystery of what it means to follow Jesus.
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.
Join a Hub Life Session in June
As the Trust & Hope Initiative continues to raise awareness of all the good work being done to renew the church, opportunities for you to be involved through Hub Life Sessions, post-Easter, are available for you to RSVP.
To continue and deepen our conversation about the pastoral vision and this next chapter in the Church of Philadelphia, you are invited to the next round of conversations, which are designed to discuss areas of interest that emerged from your questions and desires:
Hub Life Sessions
What is the purpose: To dive deeper into areas of interest from participants’ feedback and how that topic intersects with building a culture of missionary discipleship. Hear briefly about the developments in that area of ministry, participate in a focused conversation related to that topic in small groups, and learn of some next steps/ways to get involved following the session.
Who is invited: You, a family member, friends and neighbors, those who have particular interest in a Hub Life topic.
Where and when will it take place: Sessions will be hosted regionally on weeknights and Saturday mornings.
Click here to go to an updated list of Hub Life Sessions that are upcoming in June. Additional sessions and new themes are added regularly!
Financial Facts
Sunday, May 31, 2026
Collection & Envelopes: $10,893.50
Church Maintenance: $1,437.00
Home Missions: $200.00
Social Ministry: $40.00
Total: $12,570.50
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.
Fr. Boxie, New Auxiliary Bishop in Washington, DC
Pope Leo XIV has appointed 45-year-old Fr. Robert Boxie as an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Washington, DC -- the first such appointment of a new African-American Catholic prelate in nearly 10 years. Upon his consecration, he will likely be one of the youngest Catholic bishops in the world. Read more.
We Are One Body: June 2026 Interparish Gathering
Members of 12 parishes across the Archdiocese have been meeting quarterly since March 2024 to respond to Archbishop Pérez’ 2023 pastoral on racism, “We Are One Body.” Please join us at the next meeting, whether this is your first time or your 7th!
Sat June 13th, 10:30 am to 2 pm at the Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19116. Please RSVP so we can plan our lunch-count.
To register, please reply to bonnieduck@verizon.net or mary.sweetlandlaver@gmail.com.
Care Manager Position in 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.
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.
Charismatic Retreat
Mother Cabrini Film Coming to a Theatre Near You!
The Cabrini film will be shown in June in all five counties of the archdiocese. The screenings are free and are meant to help the faithful prepare for the Eucharistic Pilgrimage in America's 250th celebration. The movie will be shown at either Regal or AMC theatres in Manayunk, Northeast Phila, Downingtown, Warrington, King of Prussia, center city Phila and Springfield (Delco).
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.
Students: Share Your Dream for Peace and Justice
Pax Christi USA is excited to announce a national essay invitational especially for Catholic students — high school juniors through graduate students — to express their hopes and dreams for peace and justice.
Who is eligible to participate?
High school students: Juniors and seniors entering the 2026–2027 school year, or recent high school graduates.
College/university students: Students currently enrolled in colleges or universities.
The invitational is open to students who live in the United States and its territories
News from the Office of Black Catholics
Missionary Discipleship Training
Latin Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes
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
Northeaster Corridor Pilgrimage
Join the St. Raymond Nonnatus Foundation for our “Faith & Freedom America Pilgrimage” October 6–15, 2026, in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States! Travel to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston while visiting historic Catholic and American sites. Grow in faith through prayer, fellowship, daily Mass, and unforgettable experiences. The pilgrimage includes: hotels, ground transportation, a Catholic tour guide, all admission fees, breakfast every day, some dinners, daily Masses, and more. Cost is $3,985 per person. To learn more or register, click here.
See the latest news from the Archdiocese
See the June Newsletter here.
