Good News for May 27, 2026
- St. Raymond of Penafort
- 2 minutes ago
- 13 min read
In this Issue:
God So Loved Us
~Gia Myers
Immaculate Conception Blessed Virgin Mary + Douglassville, Pa.
This Gospel passage is wildly popular, and we often see references to it appearing on signs at sporting events and trending on social media. But when we really listen to it with open hearts, it feels less like a slogan and more like a quiet reassurance.
It begins by saying, “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.”
It says “everyone,” not the people who have it all together, but the whole world – even those of us who feel messy, tired, confused, and heartbroken. People like us, sitting in the pews with our worries, regrets, unmade beds and hopeful prayers.
God’s response to the world’s imperfections was to send us His Son – not to condemn us but to save us! That’s a comforting thought, especially on days when we feel judged by others and sometimes even ourselves.
Many of us carry quiet guilt about choices we’ve made in the past, things we’ve said, or people we’ve hurt. Sometimes, we feel that God is disappointed in us. But this Gospel tells a different story. God offers us His love! He simply asks that we believe in that love.
This passage challenges us to reflect on how we respond to God’s love. Do we accept His invitation to eternal life through faith in Jesus? How do we live out this faith each day?
When we begin to live feeling secure in God’s love, that’s when we can begin to experience greater hope for the future. He’s got our backs! And that’s good news we can carry with us into the next week and beyond.
Come Holy Spirit!
St. Raymond was a sea of red on Sunday as we celebrated Penecost! Happy Birthday, Church! Praise God for this gift!
Welcome Our Newest Church Members
Congratulations to the newest members of our Church family, Sahir, Jamir, Zoe, and Lilly, who celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul on Sunday, May 24.
A special thank you to Shabay Bryant for all of her hard work, guidance, and dedication in helping prepare our young people for this important step in their faith journey.
Please continue to keep our newly confirmed parishioners in your prayers as they grow in faith and live out the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
The Work of Racial Healing Continues: A Perspective from Hon. Lucretia C. Clemons, J.D.
by Bonnie Dalzell
Close to a decade ago, after earning her J.D. at The Temple University James E. Beasley School of Law, the Honorable Lucretia C. Clemons won her seat on the bench at the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas. The judgeship was a dream she’d had ever since she was a little girl in St. Louis, MO, where she was born and raised.
From the time she learned to read and write, Lucretia recalls putting her thoughts into school-issued journals – “little notebooks where we recorded our accomplishments and wrote about our hopes for the future.” Years later, looking through those early writings, Lucretia was surprised to find that her “when-I-grow-up” plans in second-grade were two-fold: Lawyer or Teacher. Now, at age 54 (almost 55), Lucretia smiles and says “I’ve been both.”
“Being Black and being Catholic in St. Louis wasn’t that unusual,” Lucretia recalled. “What was unusual was that, thanks to Archbishop Cardinal Joseph Ritter (1892-1967), St. Louis schools were integrated as far back as the ‘40’s.” Thus, growing up in the parish where her father was baptized and her parents were married, Lucretia embraced Catholic Social Teaching and whole-heartedly agreed with her Dad whenever he reminded her, “You can’t be Catholic and racist.”
But when she came to New York University at age 18 and experienced segregation for the first time, Lucretia was shocked. Later, she found the same thing while studying law at Temple. “It still puzzles me,” she said. “How can anyone be Catholic and racist?”
Lucretia thinks it’s all about leadership. “Sadly,” she noted, “when it comes to the sin of racism, the Church is not on the front lines."
Five years ago, Archbishop Nelson Perez created his Commission on Racial Healing (ACRH), and Lucretia was appointed as one of the founding members. The Commission is comprised of laity, consecrated religious, and clergy; the ultimate goal is to have Philadelphia be a model archdiocese where racial healing is not only part of the norm but part of the culture.
At present, Lucretia has limited her time for ACRH initiatives; her priorities are her aging parents (still living in MO) and her family. Her three sons are Jarrod, 28; Nathaniel, Jr., 27; and Zachary, 13. Her husband, now retired, is devoted to raising their last child, and Lucretia has resolved to be a strong co-parent during his remaining four years at home.
What she brings to the Commission is a Mom who worries about how systemic racism affects her sons and her husband. But she is also a public servant who tries every day to protect and improve the lives of the citizens of the city and of the Commonwealth.
“I hope that when I’m serving in the courtroom I bring the perspective of being first, a child of God,” she said. “I’ve taught my children always to be fair to others. But this is a difficult lesson for my own sons when they realize that the world does not see them as who they are.” Consequently, when she speaks at schools, Lucretia reminds students to be kind and generous toward everyone, especially to the unhoused and those with substance use disorders.
She has taught DEI to judges and co-employees. “White privilege is a concept people simply don’t want to talk about,” she said. “They’d rather pretend it’s not there. Likewise, systemic racism. The people who don’t believe it exists are invariably the ones who are not subject to it.”
Black Catholic adults are likewise hungry for leadership from Church hierarchy. “The Supreme Court struck down the Civil Rights Act, and we haven’t heard a word about it,” she said. “Leadership. Leadership. We need leadership.”
A scriptural passage that speaks to Lucretia’s sensibilities is Matthew’s gospel (Matt. 25:40-45), where Jesus explains that caring for those in need is directly connected to serving Him. He says, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
What does Lucretia love most about St. Raymond? “It feels like home. We belong there.”
She recalled a recent conversation she had with Zachary, after he and some schoolmates attended a Mass at a white church. “He came home all puzzled,” she said. “Said he found it ‘boring’ – not at all like at St. Raymond.” She looked at her son, then offered a silent prayer of thanksgiving: “I have won!”
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.
If interested, prayerfully consider contacting Brandi (bwhitehead@saintraymond.net) or call her at 215-549-3760 to express your interest in participating.
Faith Formation & Sacrament Prep
Our upcoming Family Faith Formation program for children ages 6–10 preparing for First Penance and First Communion has begun. It's not too late to register. Please use link below.
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.
FaceTime with Jesus June 1st
Come spend an hour with Jesus and then enjoy fellowship by the fire.
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 10:00 AM! 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)
Children’s Liturgy of the Word - schedule coming soon
Youth liturgical dance - planning is in progress
Youth Choir - planning is in progress
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.
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 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.
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 this weekend, May 30–31. Your generosity helps provide care, stability, and opportunity for families in need. Thank you for your support!
Anointing of the Sick May 30 and 31
This weekend, 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.
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.
Prayer Team This Weekend
Following all the Masses this weekend, our prayer team is ready to support you as you tell the Lord all those things that lie heavy on your heart, and also to praise Him for the blessings He showers on all of his children.
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 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 24, 2026
Collection & Envelopes: $6,416.00
Church Maintenance: $827.00
Catholic Relief: $20.00
Home Missions: $21.00
REST: $200.00
Total: $7,484.00
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.
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.
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).
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.
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 June Newsletter here.