Good News for May 13, 2026
- St. Raymond of Penafort
- May 13
- 10 min read
In this Issue:
Making Disciples - An Invitation to an Encounter
~Dennis Mueller
Saint Albert the Great Church + Huntingdon Valley, Pa.
“Go, therefore, and make disciples.” It’s easy to imagine this command applying only to priests, religious, or missionaries in distant places. But Jesus didn’t limit His words to a select few. He spoke to ordinary followers – people who walked with Him, stumbled, tried again, and kept showing up. What He spoke to the first disciples before ascending into heaven, He speaks to us now.
Missionary discipleship rarely looks dramatic. It isn’t usually preaching on street corners or knocking on doors, though those have their place in our call to make disciples of all nations. For most of us, it simply means living with greater intention: choosing prayer when we’re tired, speaking kindly when we’re frustrated, listening when someone needs to be heard. It means remembering that every person we encounter at work, in the grocery store, in our own home, is someone Christ loves deeply. Often, that quiet, consistent love is more challenging than any bold public proclamation.
Yet the Gospel also nudges us beyond silent witness. It invites us to share our faith in simple, human ways: reading Bible stories to children and grandchildren, inviting someone to Mass, offering to pray with a friend who’s struggling. These small gestures can feel insignificant, but these are often the moments when Christ works most powerfully. Scripture shows us again and again how God works through the quiet and the ordinary.
What gives me courage is Jesus’ promise: “I am with you always.” Through Baptism, He doesn’t send us out alone. He fills us with His divine presence and grace and walks with us into every conversation, every act of service, every moment of encounter. The mission isn’t about having perfect answers or polished explanations. It’s about trusting that Jesus is already at work in and through each of us and allowing ourselves to become instruments of His love to all the nations.
When we embrace the true heart of this passage, it becomes less of a command and more of an invitation to encounter Jesus more deeply and to let that encounter overflow into the world around us.
Pentecost Sunday, May 24
Don’t forget to join us Pentecost Sunday, May 24 as we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit! Please wear red as we come together in unity and celebration of this powerful day in the life of the Church.
As we celebrate Pentecost, we invite parishioners to share in the beauty of many languages by reciting the Prayer Intentions in their NATIVE LANGUAGE and in ENGLISH.
Let’s fill the sanctuary with the color of fire, faith, and renewal! If you are interested in participating, please contact the parish office at 215-549-3760.
There will be hospitality out front after the 10am Mass.
Faith Formation & Sacrament Prep Begins May 17!
Our upcoming Family Faith Formation program for children ages 6–10 preparing for First Penance and First Communion begins in two weeks.
All families are welcome—whether or not your child has already received the sacraments. Please note: this program is required for families planning for First Penance and First Communion in 2027.
Children's Choir May 16
The Children's Choir will be singing at the 5 pm Mass on May 16. New members are welcome. Just show up and get excited to sing!
Explore the Faith - This Sunday, May 17
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.
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.
Youth Bethany Team & Lector Proclaiming Training May 16
Training for Bethany Team and Lector Proclaiming begins Saturday, May 16. Call Brandi in the Church Office today, if you want to join but haven't yet signed up. The number is (215) 549-3760.
What’s New for Youth
Here’s what’s coming: Social Events:
Youth Day at Blue Bell Park June 27 – 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:
Bethany Youth Team Training – May 16, 10–11:30 am
Lector/Proclaimer Training – May 16 at 12 pm
Eucharistic Minister Training – coming soon (stay tuned)
Children’s Liturgy of the Word - schedule coming soon
Youth liturgical dance - coming soon
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.
Mission Trip to Kenya - Can You Help Alex?
St. Raymond parishioner Alex Pauling, an Occupational Therapy major graduating from Gwynedd Mercy University this May, is heading to Kenya in August for a service trip through a partnership with Chariots for Hope. While he’s there, he’ll be working alongside local educators and therapists, using what he’s learned to help our brothers and sisters in need. He’s asking his church family for support. Donations will help cover travel, lodging, and the supplies needed for the trip. Any amount makes a difference as he prepares to serve. Learn more and donate here.
Prayer Team Help Needed
Are you comfortable having a conversation with God? St Raymond’s Prayer Team is seeking volunteers to pray for and with others. The monthly Prayer Team Partners gather on the first weekend of the month after each Mass to hear and respond to prayer needs. The primary requirements are a love of Christ and love of your neighbor. We will help you with the rest. To learn more or to volunteer, please email Deacon Michael or call him at 215-549-3760.
Charitable Initiatives for May and June
We're Partnering with St. Benedict Parish
May
Volunteers are needed to help give out food at St. Benedict’s on May 18, 22 and 29. We'll need two people for a standing post, two more for a sitting post, and two additional people who can assist at the blood pressure station (one standing and one sitting).
If you missed the deadline at St. Raymond's for food drop-off, you can still take it to St. Benedict's on Monday or Friday mornings, 9 am to noon.
Provide a Meal in Kensington
June
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.
Help Keep Our Parish Beautiful
Do you enjoy caring for plants? Are you looking for a simple and meaningful way to serve our Church community?
We are urgently seeking volunteers to help water and maintain the plants in front of the Rectory, Church, and Chapel. This is a wonderful opportunity to help preserve the beauty of our parish grounds, and your help is truly needed and appreciated.
If you’re interested, please contact Brandi at 215-549-3760 or email brandi@saintraymond.net. You may also let Jenny, Olive, or Alicia know if you see them at Mass.
Thank you for helping keep our church beautiful!
Donate Your Used Clothing
Baby Bottles for Guiding Star Ministries
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. Please fill a donation bottle with your contribution and return it on the weekend of May 30–31. Your generosity helps provide care, stability, and opportunity for families in need. Thank you for your support!
Ascension Thursday - Tomorrow, May 14
This Holy Day of Obligation matters more than many people realize. The Ascension declares that the ministry of Jesus did not end in defeat, confusion, or legend. The same Jesus who was crucified and raised entered heavenly glory as Lord. He did not vanish into myth. He ascended bodily, reigns now, intercedes for his people, and will come again. To find a Mass that fits your needs, please check https://masstimes.org/.
In Memoriam - Dave Sango
Our church family will deeply miss Dave Sango and always remember his dedicated service to our community. May he rest in peace in the arms of our Lord.
Gluten Free Hosts Available
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.
Anointing of the Sick
On the weekend of May 30th and May 31st the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick will be administered at the Saturday 5 pm and Sunday, 8 am 10 am Masses. Parishioners who have been diagnosed with a chronic illness (cancer, diabetes, arthritis, lupus, diseases of the heart, lung & kidney etc.) undergoing treatment for another disease/illness, or living at a very advanced age are encouraged to receive this Sacrament. If you qualify and desire to be anointed, sign-up sheets are available on the desk in the rear of the church, or you must call the rectory no later than May 28th. No names will be accepted after this date. Should you have any questions please call the Church Rectory at 215-549-3760.
Graduates: Join Us for a Blessing May 23 & 24
Cap and Gown Season is upon us, and it’s time to honor our students. Please call Brandi in the rectory office 215-549-3760 and tell her the names of your graduates and their academic achievements (high school, bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, other). She will keep a list and when graduation time arrives, Good News will offer accolades!
FaceTime with Jesus June 1st
Come spend an hour with Jesus and then enjoy fellowship by the fire.
Join a Hub Life Session May-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 May through June 2026. Additional sessions and new themes are added regularly!
Financial Facts
Sunday, May 10, 2026
Collection & Envelopes: $11,702.50
Church Maintenance: $902.00
Easter Offering: $30.00
Easter Flowers: $10.00
Holy Land: $10.00
Home Missions: $234.00
Social Ministry: $3.00
REST: $368.00
Rice Bowl: $5.00
Thanksgiving Offering: $5.00
Total: $13,269.50
Special Collections
5/10 = Catholic Home Missions
5/24 = Maintenance
New Phone # for Catholic Call to Prayer
Due to technical difficulties with Catholic Call to Prayer, we have had to update the phone number and access code. Please use the new information provided. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your patience.
You can dial in using your phone.
Phone Number: +1 (872) 240-3412
Access Code: 190-748-589
This call lasts 5-7 minutes and can have an amazing impact at the start your day, reflecting on God’s WORD!!
Noon Call to Prayer. Same number, Monday to Friday at NOON. We will pray the Angelus, reflect on the 1st reading from Daily Mass, say intercessory prayer for those in need and beg God to draw us all nearer to Him.
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. Sy J. Peterka, C.M. Celebrates 50 Years As a Priest
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).
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
Veterans, You're Invited to a Day of Recognition
Attention WWII, Korea, and Vietnam veterans: Honor Flight Philadelphia will travel to Washington, D.C., on September 19, 2026, to honor you with a day of recognition. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a Heroes Welcome Home are provided at no cost. For participation or questions, contact Pete Miller at 610-517-9171 orpgmiller412@gmail.com.
The Scally Brothers In Concert May 14
Communications Day Symposium
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
See the latest news from the Archdiocese
See the May Newsletter here.
