News and Updates
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nEWS AND UPDATES
For the most up to date news, please see our:
If you missed the Pilgrim Icon Prayer Service held earlier this month in honor of St. Joseph, then you are invited to join the Holy Cross Knights Cheverus Council #2344 who will be holding another service dedicated to St. Joseph on Wednesday, June 22nd at 7pm at Holy Cross Church in South Portland.
Our annual parish picnic will occur on August 14th at 11:30-2:30PM at St. Maximilian Kolbe. All are invited!
Click here to read our Pastoral Council interview with Richard Borrelli, who represents Holy Cross Church
Meet New Holy Cross Principal Tim Stebbins
Social Justice and Peace Commission is sponsoring Christmas in July Trees for the entirety of July to help new Mainers and Veterans. Please consider helping those in need in our communities. If you have any questions, please call Kris Benson at 207-883-0334 ext. 1206.
The annual USCCB Religious Freedom Week starts June 22nd. The theme for 2022 is "Life and Dignity for All" Religious freedom allows the Church, and all religious communities, to live out their faith in public and to serve the good of all. Beginning June 22, the feast of Sts. Thomas More and John Fisher, the USCCB invites Catholics to pray, reflect, and act to promote religious freedom.
Please visit the photo section of our website to view photos from Vacation Bible School and our Corpus Christi Eucharistic Procession.
Our Faith Formation is now Total Family Formation. We gather as family groups once a month throughout the school year and there are discussions, lessons and videos that can be watched and completed at home. Each month's gathering has a different theme to help us live our Catholic faith daily. We will be looking at the lives of the saints, how we can listen to God in the scriptures and how we can be better engaged in the Mass. The cost is $50 per child with a family cap of $150. The cost covers the expense of all materials for the year. Registration for Faith Formation for 2022-2023 will open on July 1. Contact Michelle Valcourt for more information.
Each month one or two members of the Pastoral Council members are interviewed as part of a larger effort to connect our parishioners with their representatives.. Click here to read our second interview with Rashmi Rodrigues who represents St. Maximilian Kolbe Church
There are updated Weekday Mass times starting June 6th. Click here for more info.
No Daily Masses—May 16 through May 19
Due to the Clergy Institute, there will be no daily masses at Holy Cross Church, St. Maximilian Kolbe Church or St. Bartholomew Church on Monday, May 16 through Thursday, May 19. Our normal schedule will resume on Friday, May 20.
You're Invited to the Knights of Columbus Council 8144 Crazy Croquet Classic and Cookout on Sunday May 22 from 12 noon to 5PM at St Maximilian Kolbe Church. Click here for more information.
2022 marks our 7th season of the Garden of Eaten, a Ministry that has assisted many people in need in receiving fresh produce. To learn more visit this page on our website.
Totus Tuus will be at St. Maximilian Kolbe this summer! The parish of St. John Paul II is excited to offer this week long summer camp once again! Programming for grades 1-8 will be July 11-15 from 8:45 a.m.— 3:00 p.m. Grades 9-12 will meet from 7:30 p.m.— 9:30 p.m. July 10- 14. For more information, go here or contact Jennifer in the Vocations Office for more info at jennifer.bernier@portlanddiocese.org.
On May 9 at 7PM at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, Fr. Jack and Michelle Valcourt present the next installment of our Practical Catholicism series. The Catholic Faith is full of rich traditions, and this month we will be exploring the liturgical seasons and how they are celebrated in the church and how we can celebrate these seasons in our daily living. This presentation will also be livestreamed on our website. All are welcome.
Each month one or two members of the Pastoral Council members are interviewed as part of a larger effort to connect our parishioners with their representatives.. Click here to read our first interview with Amanda Doherty, who represents St. Maximilian Kolbe church.
Upcoming Marian Events:- The Knights of Columbus are sponsoring a Mother's Day Breakfast on May 8th. Click here for more information.
- The First Saturday Mass and Devotion, which occurs next on May 7th at 8:00 a.m. at St. Bartholomew Church.
- "Maine Needs Fatima" Public Rosary Rally will occur on Saturday May 14th @ 12 noon (rain or shine) at Fort Williams on 1000 Shore Road in Cape Elizabeth.
The Holy Week and Easter schedule can be viewed here
Hello and Goodbye:
St. John Paul II Parish welcomes Carrie Flanagan as our new business manager. Raised in New Hampshire and with family in southern Maine, Carrie returns home from her previous position as a parish business manager in Rockford, Illinois. We would also like to thank Katie Benedict for her number of years of service to our parish community as business manager. We wish her well in her next endeavor.
Fr. Alex Boucher has been appointed parochial vicar of St. John Paul II Parish beginning on May 2nd while Fr. Peter Shaba, SMA has been appointed parochial vicar of All Saints Parish. Parish Life will host a farewell celebration for Fr. Peter at St. Maximilian Kolbe on May 1 after the 10:30 a.m. Mass until 1pm.
Support Ukraine
The Knights of Columbus, Cheverus Council #2344, have set up a relief fund for Ukraine called “The Ukraine Solidarity Fund" where 100 % of all money collected goes toward the relief efforts. The National Knights of Columbus will match the first $500,000 collected dollar for dollar. Donations can be made by logging onto www.kofc.org OR check donations made out to Cheverus Council 2344 OR cash donations. Cash and check donations can be dropped off at Broadway Gardens in South Portland. Thank you for any donation you can make.
Join us for the "Divine Mercy Sunday" Service at 3pm at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church on Sunday, April 24. *This is not a Mass, but rather a Prayer Service*
Calling all HC alums or those interested in learning what makes HCS so special! Join us at any Mass on April 3 where HC families will briefly address the congregation. Alternatively, you are welcome to join us for coffee and donuts after the 10:00 a.m. Mass at Holy Cross Church on April 10. Both dates will provide a terrific opportunity to connect with some of our school families and students to hear about all of the amazing things happening this year!
This year's May Crowning will occur at St. Bartholomew at 1PM on May 1. Children will be making their own Mary Gardens. We hope to see you there for this beautiful occasion.
Do you love baking? If yes, please consider sharing this gift with our parish. Throughout the year we call on our team of bakers to provide treats for various events. If you would like to join this team please contact Amanda Meir 603-969-4009 or amandahuelat@gmail.com
Take the Diocese of Portland Online Survey for the Synod on Synodality by April 18th
Click here to view the March 20th Bulletin Insert: Aging Friendly Parish Workshop
As of March 4th, 2022, masks are no longer strongly recommended for all persons in church
This Lent the parish is offering fellowship opportunities not only through faith-sharing groups, but also through weekly Lenten dinners sponsored by our Knights of Columbus councils. Click on the parish calendar to learn more.
Our Annual St. Patrick's Day Luncheon will occur on March 13th. The deadline to order is Monday the 7th. Click here for all information.
Dear Holy Cross School Community,
Thank you for all your hard work to continue the mission of Holy Cross School. We have been blessed to have Cindy Elwood as our principal for the past three years. She has continued the strong legacy of our school. As you know, Mrs. Elwood is retiring at the end of this school year. I look forward to the opportunities we will have to recognize her service and devotion.
I am writing to announce our new principal. Timothy Stebbins will be the principal of Holy Cross School starting this summer for the 2022-2023 school year. Mr. Stebbins is a Biddeford resident. He has worked in education for over thirty years and in school administration for the last thirteen years. He currently serves as the Assistant Director of the Biddeford Regional Center of Technology. Mr. Stebbins is parishioner in Good Shepherd Parish in Biddeford and Saco.
First and foremost, it is evident that Mr. Stebbins has a passion for the holistic success and well-being of our students. Second, he brings experience in guiding the ongoing excellence of a school, especially with support for our teachers and the knowledge of the accreditation process. He is excited to meet you and assist in success of Holy Cross, as a great Catholic school.
Please keep Mr. Stebbins and the Holy Cross School community in your prayers.
In Christ,
Father Jack Dickinson
Daily Mass and Snow Days -
When there is a snow storm which causes South Portland to cancel school for the day and when a daily/weekday Mass is scheduled for that day at Holy Cross Church, the scheduled morning Mass will automatically be cancelled. By making this “rule”, we avoid the difficulty of trying to notify daily Mass goers at Holy Cross in the event of a storm when the priest may be unable to get there.
Daily Masses are never cancelled at St. Maximilian Kolbe or St. Bartholomew Churches since a priest lives at those rectories and can always get to Mass. Please use caution when deciding to attend Mass in inclement weather.
Parish Office and Snow Days -
When there is a snow storm which causes Cape Elizabeth, South Portland, or Scarborough schools to close, the parish office will also be closed.
Upcoming February and March Events: Please check our parish calendar for the most updated list of events
Did you know that there are 8 volunteer roles during Mass alone that we are always looking to fill? There are also 10 volunteer positions filled by parishioners outside of the context of Mass.
For example, we are currently looking for a Live Streaming Assistant who can oversee the live streaming of the 5:00 p.m. Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church. Training is provided. To sign up for this opportunity and more, please visit https://jp2me.org/volunteer-opportunities
New Logo
Today we unveiled our new parish logo on the website and all social media accounts. Our new logo and its 3 circles represent the 3 churches in our parish, while also taking on the shape of the Eucharistic host which is the center of our faith and the center of the logo. You can also see in the logo a cross which is the depiction of the Papal Cross used by our Patron, Pope John Paul II.
Advent Parish resources:
- Advent Magnificat Companion are available on the table in the narthex for your spiritual growth!
Online Advent resources:
- Dynamic Catholic
- Formed
- Bishop Barron
- Loyola Press
- Seasonal blessings from the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation for Catholic family homes for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany
Weekly Advent Faith-Sharing Groups
Additional Confession Opportunities: The Light is on for You
- A great way to prepare for the Lord's birth is through the reception of the sacrament of reconciliation. Click here to view additional times.
Fun Holiday Outings
- November 28th: Advent Wreath Making
- December 5th: Lessons and Carols
- December 8th: Tree Lighting and Potluck Dinner
- December 12th and 19th: The Nativity Play
Deceased Parishioners Bulletin Insert
Thank you to all who contributed to our Remembrance Fund commemorating All Souls Day. The names on the attached PDF bulletin insert are the deceased who have been offered up by our parishioners in request of our prayers.
Organ Update
Unfortunately, St. Maximilian Kolbe Organ is no longer fixable. With keys and stops no longer working, many of our favorite hymns cannot be played. Out of necessity, we will be purchasing a new organ. It is an ALLEN organ as seen above. The cost of the organ is $63,000 and over the next few months there will be opportunities to contribute to this beautiful instrument. This is a custom-made organ, and its construction is underway. We can expect delivery sometime after the new year. While we are waiting, Allen organ has been good enough to offer us a loaner to use during Advent and Christmas.
Table of Remembrance:
During the month of November, there will be Tables of Remembrance at each church on which parishioners are invited to place framed photos of deceased family members so that we might as a community commend the love ones who have gone before us to our prayers. All parishioners are welcome drop off a framed picture of a deceased friend or family member at the parish office. Please be sure to include your name and phone number on the back of the picture.
Thanksgiving Mass Date:
Please join us for our single parish Thanksgiving Mass on Thanksgiving (Thursday the 25th) morning at 9am at St. Bartholomew.
All Saints Day at John Paul II ParishMonday, November 1st is All Saints Day. When a special feast day falls on a Saturday and Monday it is no longer a day of obligation. Our Mass schedule this year will be:
- St Bartholomew 8AM
- Holy Cross 9AM the school and parish combined
- St Maximilian Kolbe 6PM
Advent Wreath Making:
On Sunday November 28th at 11:30am, all are invited to make Advent Wreaths at St Maximilian Kolbe Church.
The Advent wreath, is a tradition that symbolizes the passage of the four weeks of Advent, as we wait of the birth of Jesus. The wreaths are made with evergreen boughs and four candles, i.e. 3 purple and 1 pink. Please join Parish Life and Faith formation in creating an advent wreath for your home. It is a great family event.
The suggested donation for this event is $10 per family.
Please RSVP to attend or volunteer by going to the signup genius link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0948aaa729a0fa7-advent3
There will be light refreshments. We hope to see you there.
New Logo:
Stay tuned for the launch of our new parish logo, which will be released during the first week of Advent throughout our social media pages.
Vigil for Deceased Loved Ones:
On November 14 @ 6pm, we will gather as a parish community to pray for our deceased loved ones at St. Max.
Interested in receiving your flu shot? We are offering the upcoming clinics:
October 10th - St. Bartholomew at 10:00 am
October 16th - Holy Cross at 5:00 pm
October 17th - St. Max at 9:30 am
Knights News:
Sale of Trappist Preserves and Jams - All sales will benefit Council #11747’s charities. Contact Gerry Martin (317-1103), Ron Menard (939- 0113), or workinggodsplan@gmail.com.
The Cheverus Council #2344 is selling $50.00 gift cards as a fundraiser for Holy Cross School and other worthy charities. For more information, go to knightsofcolumbus2344.org.
Confirmation Reminder
Join us in praying for those making their Confirmation on October 23rd at 9:30AM and 1PM at St. Maximilian Kolbe.
Rosary Rally on October 16th
In Honor of Our Lady of Fatima, join the 2021 Public Rosary Crusade at a time when our nation is in great need of public prayer, repentance and conversion.
What: The Holy Rosary
When: Saturday October 16th, 2021 @ 12 noon (Rain or shine)
Where: 1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107 at the top of the hill near the flag pole.
Bring: A blanket or chairs, and all of your friends and family. This event is kids friendly, and is open to everyone, even if you’ve never prayed the Rosary.
FMI: Text/call Amanda 603-969-4009 at amandahuelat@gmail.com or visit www.maineneedsfatima.org
Bishop Deeley’s Statement on Vaccines and ExemptionsIn recent weeks, I have received correspondence from individuals both objecting to Governor Mills’ mandate requiring health care workers to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and asking the diocese for a “religious exemption” from doing so.
I am of the opinion that the vaccine is an effective way to deal with a virulent virus which is causing great destruction. In this, I follow the moral guidance given by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in 2005 in assessing that the moral good which comes from protecting us from this virus makes the use of these vaccines morally permissible. That teaching is repeated in the Notes published by the same Congregation on December 21, 2020. In that document, in No. 5, it states that “the morality of vaccination depends not only on the duty to protect one’s own health, but also on the duty to pursue the common good.” That common good “may recommend vaccination.” Three separate documents have been released by the Holy See that address the question of a cell line derived from a fetus being used in the development or testing of the vaccine. They conclude to the moral permissibility of those taking the vaccine. As such, I have no reason to take exception to Governor Mills’ mandate for health care workers. I conclude that receiving the COVID-19 vaccine does not violate Catholic moral teaching.
Following the examples of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Pope Francis, who have both taken the vaccine, I see the vaccine as a valuable aid. In fact, Pope Francis, as recently as August 21, urged people to get the vaccine as an act of care for the other. It needs to be pointed out, as well, that in Maine law there is no longer an allowance for philosophical or religious exemptions from vaccines, only medical exemptions.
Catholics care about the common good, and the Gospel calls us to care for each other. Receiving a COVID-19 vaccine protects and preserves the dignity of many in need. Join me in continuing to pray for a swift end to the pandemic and the serious harm caused by this terrible virus.
September News: We are currently hiring for 4 positions at the parish:1.) Assistant Faith Formation Director
With an Emphasis on Middle and High School Youth Ministry St. John Paul II Parish is seeking a dynamic, inviting, and enthusiastic individual to join their pastoral staff. The Assistant Faith Formation Director with an emphasis on Youth Ministry will oversee planning and leading a comprehensive youth ministry program. This responsibility includes organizing middle and high school youth events, including service opportunities and social activities within the parish. In addition, the individual will also assist with and encourage participation in diocesan and other youth events. The Assistant Faith Formation Director will recruit and engage adult volunteers to participate in events and will be responsible for supervising volunteers, including program leaders and support staff. The position includes leading Sacramental Preparation programming for our middle school and high school youth which includes facilitating and monitoring retreats. Applicants must be practicing Catholics in good standing. A Bachelor’s degree is required and the candidate must be willing to work nights and weekends.
2.) Music Minister
St. John Paul II Parish seeks a part-time Music Minister to be responsible for developing musical gifts with the parish to enhance all liturgical celebrations and for fostering full, conscious, and active participation in the liturgy by all parishioners. Other responsibilities include selecting music, accompanying and leading two choirs, planning and providing music for parish celebrations/events, mentoring cantors, developing volunteers, playing at funerals and on holy days. The successful candidate will possess strong communication skills and interact well with people.
3.) A part-time Bookkeeper
Duties include accounts payables, payroll, cash receipts/deposits, reconciliations, preparing hourly entries, and maintaining Excel spreadsheets. Prior bookkeeping experience required. Bachelor of Science degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business preferred.
4.) Facilities Worker
St. John Paul II Parish and Holy Cross School are looking for a Facilities Worker to join their team. This position is approximately 30 hours per week and will entail working late afternoon into the early evening, Monday through Saturday. Duties include cleaning, sanitizing, ordering supplies, and scheduling and overseeing outside maintenance contracts and inspections. Opportunity for reduced hours in the summer
To apply, send a cover letter and resume to Katie Benedict, Business Manager, 150 Black Point Road, Scarborough, ME 04074.
September News: Knights of Columbus #11747 Family Breakfast
Join the Knights on September 12th at St. Max for a family breakfast after the Morning Mass.
August News: COVID Updates
As of today, 14 out of 16 Maine counties are now considered to have “substantial” or “high” levels of COVID transmission according to the CDC. For that reason, masks are now *strongly recommended* for all persons in church. While this is a strong recommendation, it is not, however, a mandate.
August / September News: Faith Formation News
Middle School and High School Youth Ministry- Save the date of September 19 at 6PM at St. Maximilian Kolbe for Parking-Lot-Palooza! We will be starting our year off with a celebration and games!
Adult Sacramental Preparation- Have you thought about becoming Catholic? Are you Catholic but haven't received all of your sacraments? We would love to have you join our Wednesday evening Adult Sacramental Preparation gatherings. Contact Kris Benson for more information.
Children's Sacramental Preparation- Do you have a child entering first grade? Now is a great time to sign them up to prepare for their Confirmation and First Communion. This is a two-year program and is open to any child grades 1-5. Contact Michelle Valcourt for more information. You can register here: https://jp2me.org/sacramental-preparation-registration
Middle School and High School Sacramental Preparation- We are excited to say we have quite a few teenagers looking to complete their Sacraments of Initiation. If you have a teen that would like to join us, contact Michelle Valcourt for more information.
Adult Faith Formation Offerings- “Echoing Faith” at Maine Parishes in 2021. Are you interested in delving deeper into the faith? The Diocese of Portland is offering a dynamic, online program to help parishioners around the state of Maine gather and learn. This program is for any fully initiated Catholic (18 years of age or older) who wants to deepen their own relationship with Christ, practice skills for sharing the faith with others, and support the Church's mission of evangelizing and catechesis. For more information about “Echoing Faith,” visit the special section on the diocesan website at www.portlanddiocese.org/olff/echoing-faith. The next group of participants will need to register before September 28 to begin the sessions on October 6. Please contact Michelle at 883-0334 or Michelle.Valcourt@portlanddiocese.org to register or for more information.
July News: Save the Date for our Fall parish mission directed by Rev. Bill Garrott, OP.
Fr. Bill will be present at all of the Masses on the weekend of October 2/3.
The Mission will be held on October 4-6th at St. Maximilian Kolbe.
For a sneak peak, view a video of Father Bill below:
July News: Teen Ministry
Are you interested in helping with VBS? We have a couple of teenagers signed up to lead our children through the stations, but we definitely need more teens! We are looking for six to ten high school youth to help. VBS is being held on August 2-6 and we need your help from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon on those days. You will get to participate in the activities and lead the children in your group from station to station. If you are interested, go to vbspro.events/p/events/be64cf. Training is available. This is a fun and easy way to get service hours or just to spend the day!
July News: Registration for Faith Formation 2021-2022 is now open
Faith Formation at our parish has become an at-home program totally based on building families and the parish. We have written a curriculum for our parents to teach at home and we will be meeting monthly, based on your schedules, in small family groups with a catechist. You can give us an idea of the best times for your families when you register. This will be flexible throughout the year, but it will give us an idea of how to get things started. The goal and spirit of our programming is to empower parents to build a Catholic family based on love and virtues. Each month, we will also have parish gatherings for our families to attend. Events to be held include an All Saints Day Celebration, Advent Wreath Making, a Mardi Gras Party, an Easter Egg Hunt, and a May Crowning. To register, go to jp2me.org/faith-formation-registration. For more information about our program, contact Michelle Valcourt (michelle.valcourt@portlanddiocese.org, 883-0334 x228). Cost for the year is $50.00 per child with a family maximum of $150.00. If you need assistance with the cost, don’t hesitate to ask.
July News: Vacation Bible School Announced
Embark on an epic quest through hidden ruins, ancient caves, and dense jungles. Discover God’s greatest treasure isn’t diamonds, gems, or gold — it’s His children! We have set a date for Vacation Bible School!
In prayerful hope that we will be allowed to have 100 people in the building by August, we have scheduled August 2-6 (8:30a.m.-12:00 noon) for this year’s VBS.
To sign up, please go to http://vbspro.events/p/events/be64cf.sdf
The cost for the week is $50.00 per child for grades 3-5 and $35.00 per child for grades 6-8. The deadline to register is July 24th.
June News: Updates to COVID PoliciesSt. John Paul II Parish rejoices over the fact that the "new normal" COVID protocols of the last 15 months has become a thing of the past. Our parishioners are now able to worship without restriction for the first time in over a year.
And as we turn the page, it has been a joy to see the increasing number of parishioners returning to Mass and the literal tears of joy coming from some of you. Last Saturday, for example, one of our own Extra Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion had tears in her eyes while distributing the Eucharist for the first time since February 2020.
On the heels of our parish's and Diocese's return to normal, Bishop Deeley has announced last Thursday that “Catholics will once again be obligated to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days beginning on the 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time, June 19-20, Fathers’ Day Weekend.”
But even now the parish staff and priests continue to await with excitement the return of all parishioners to Mass in order receive the source and summit of our faith: The Eucharist. To that end, we wanted to alert you to our list of changes in protocol as we turn the
Here is an overview of the updates to our COVID protocols. Let's rejoice and praise God for the many things we have learned and the gifts we have received over the last fifteen months:
We will continue to:
- Have hand sanitizers available throughout the church
- Make the wearing of masks optional but not required
- Livestream the 5pm Mass from St Maximilian Kolbe Church
We immediately plan to:
- Reinstate the use of our Reconciliation Rooms
- Make Holy Water Fonts available once again
- Process in at the beginning of Mass with the Book of the Gospels
- Make Hymnals available once again
- Reinstate our Choirs
Over the next few weeks we will begin:
- Reinstating the Offertory Collection
- Processing to the altar with the gifts
- Reinstating regular Communion Stations
- Resuming the Sign of Peace
We are also now able to have gatherings in the parish with food for events, and funerals. We will continue to keep you informed of future changes we until we are fully back to normal.
June News: Enjoy taking photos?
Sometimes parish staffers are so busy working at church events that they aren't able to capture the special moments from things like Confirmations, Retreats or Fundraisers.
If you happen to be present at any upcoming Masses/Parish events and remember to take a picture, then Communications Associate Ryan Bilodeau would love it if you could email it to ryan.bilodeau@portlanddiocese.
org . Some upcoming happenings that we'd love to capture are:- Masses honoring high school graduates (June 19th)
- The Appeal Visit of the Medical Missionaries of Mary (June 26 and 27)
June News: Altar Server TrainingWHAT DOES AN ALTAR SERVER DO?
-Assist the priest and deacon at the Mass.
-Carry in the cross.
-Prepare the gifts and altar.
-Ring the bells.
WHY BE AN ALTAR SERVER?
-You don’t have to sit with your parents.
-You get a front row seat.
MORE IMPORTANTLY ...
-You are performing a very important ministry.
-You are a leader in the parish.
-You will learn more about the Mass.
-You will develop a closer relationship with Jesus.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND TRAINING?
-Those who were serving prior to the pandemic.
-Any youth who has been baptized, confirmed, and received First Eucharist.
ALTAR SERVER TRAINING SESSIONS
Fr. Jack and Fr. Peter will be hosting 2 altar serving training sessions.
Or you can sign up for your preferred session here on SignUpGenius.
Or call Kris Benson 207-883-0334 ext. 227
- Saturday, June 12—9:00-10:00 a.m.—Holy Cross Church
- Monday, June 21—10:00-11:00 a.m.—St. Maximilian Kolbe Church
We look forward to you joining us!
May News:A New Season for The Garden of Eaten
Garden of EatenParishioner Paul Chamberlain recently discussed the 6th season and recent history of the Garden of Eaten:
2021 marks our sixth season of a Ministry that has assisted many people in need in receiving fresh produce. We have donated close to 5000 pounds of fresh produce to the South Portland Food Cupboard over our first five years and that trend should continue 2021.
The Garden of Eaten, located at St. Maximillian Church is Scarborough, was established from a grant from Catholic Charities Maine in 2015. The purpose of the grant was to create garden plots where the parishioners of then Cluster 22, would grow vegetables, a portion of which would be donated to the South Portland Food Cupboard.
The Garden has eight garden plots that are 10’ x 12’ and forty-seven Kiddie Plots that are 2’ x 4’ and that surround the large plots. The Kiddie Plots were designed for kids in mind to pique their interest in gardening.
The Garden was constructed by many volunteers in the Cluster over a period of several months in the late summer/early fall of 2015 and opened in the spring of 2016. John McDonough, owner of JD Squared Construction, donated his time to build the shed where we keep our gardening tools, scale, etc. John and his crew put up the fence surrounding the Garden to protect our crops from animals. Broadway Gardens donated tons of soil and compost that fills the garden plots.
We currently have 15 individuals that plant and maintain the plots, growing an assortment of vegetables that include tomatoes, green peppers, carrots, beets, cucumbers, squash, onions, eggplant, string beans, peas, celery, etc. Each gardener donates a portion of their harvest during the course of the season to the SPFC.
Thank you to Paul and all other parishioners involved in this important ministry. In order to apply for a plot of land in the Garden, please visit https://jp2me.org/garden-of-eaten
June News: Sale of Trappist Preserves and Jams
Knights of Columbus Council 11747 will be selling Trappist Jams at the churches in our parish this June. Proceeds from our sales will go to local charities, including the Mother Seton House in Fryeburg, a nonprofit home for pregnant women in difficult circumstances. Contact Gerry Martin (317-1103), Ron Menard (939-0113), or workinggodsplan@gmail.com for more information.
Please visit us after Mass:- June 12 & 13 at St. Bartholomew Church
- June 19 & 20 at Holy Cross Church
June News: Do you enjoy making spaces more beautiful?
Do you want to become more involved in the parish? We are looking to establish Environment Committees for both St. Bartholomew and St. Maximilian Kolbe.This committee works to bring beauty to the house of God and inspire those who gather to worship. Learn how the liturgical environment and the symbols and actions in the liturgy enhance our worship.
This is a wonderful ministry to be a part of. If interested, contact Kris (kris.benson@portlanddiocese.
org , 883-0334 x227).
May News: Updates to COVID Policies Starting May 24th
If you heard about the recent changes to COVID policies in the state of Maine, you might be wondering how they affect our parish. To that end, we wanted to share some updates with you:
1) There are no limitations on the use of seating in the churches. Social distancing will no longer be required. We will make the halls available at St. Maximilian and St. Bartholomew if anyone wants to maintain social distancing.
2) Masks will no longer be required for anyone, but individuals are welcome to wear them if they desire.
3) Contact tracing lists will no longer be taken.
These changes follow the CDC guidelines and focus on getting into church. Any updates on the Mass itself and other activities will be determined in the following weeks.
May News: Several Adult Parishioners Confirmed
Several of our Adult Confirmation candidates made their Confirmation on Friday May 21st when we hosted Bishop Deeley at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church. Please keep them in your prayers as they advance in their faith in a special way with the help of the Holy Spirit.
May: Knights News
Gift Card Fundraiser
The Cheverus Council #2344 is selling $50.00 gift cards as a fundraiser for Holy Cross School and other worthy charities. Gift cards are currently available from Anthony’s Italian Kitchen, Arlberg Ski Shop, and Broadway Gardens. For more information, go to knightsofcolumbus2344.org.
Sale of Trappist Preserves and Jams
All sales will benefit St. Maximilian Kolbe Council #11747’s charities. Contact Gerry Martin (317-1103), Ron Menard (939-0113), or workinggodsplan@gmail.com.
American Flag Collection
St. Maximilian Kolbe Council #11747 is collecting American Flags that are tattered, faded, torn, soiled, or old and in need of proper disposal. On Flag Day, June 14, a ceremony to properly dispose of these flags will be held at the Maine Military Museum (50 Peary Terrace, South Portland) at 6:00 p.m.. The deadline for dropping off flags is June 6. We are accepting only American Flags.
May News: 8th Graders Graduate from Holy Cross
The 8th grade Holy Cross School graduation occurred on June 4th. On the heals of a difficult 2020, the ceremony was a beautiful one. Let's keep our 8th graders in our prayers as they move onto high school!
May News: Holy Cross Middle School Clean Up Day
This Friday the 7th will be a day of service for the middle school, which will participate in the annual Clean Up Day.
On this day, the Holy Cross middle school will hold no classes, except specials, and students will perform a variety of tasks in and around the school. Much of this is outdoors as they will work to spruce up the church and school campus after a long winter.
The Holy Cross community is more than just the students and staff. It includes the parishioners of Holy Cross and St. John Paul II parish. It includes our neighbors and this who visit the campus. All of these folks are most generous and considerate of our place in the community. As a small return, the Middle School performs this service once a year to give back.
May News: 6th Season of The Garden of Eaten
The Garden of Eaten (located at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church) is embarking on their sixth gardening season of raising fresh produce, a portion of which will be donated to the South Portland Food Cupboard to assist people in need.
We have donated over 4,500 pounds of produce over the past three growing seasons and we hope to continue that trend in 2021. We have several kiddie plots (2x4”) available to rent this season ($5.00 per plot).
You would be amazed how much produce can be grown in such a small area. If you are interesting in participating or receiving more information about this ministry, contact Paul Chamberlain (prtc65@gmail.com). And don’t hesitate to visit the garden site!
Garden of Eaten Application
Garden of Eaten Guidelines
May News: 2021 Graduating Seniors
The parish of St. John Paul II would like to honor our class of 2021 graduating High School seniors. We would like to place your children's names in our bulletin, and we would like to honor your children at any of our Masses the weekend of June 19 and 20. At the Mass, we will be offering a blessing and a small gift to our graduating seniors.
If you would like to add your child's name to appear in the June 20 bulletin, please send an email to michelle.valcourt@portlanddiocese.org. Include in the email your graduating child's name as you would like it to appear. You can also email us at that time which Mass you will be attending and the number of people attending with you. We can only guarantee seating for those who have contacted us before June 17. The Masses for June 19 at 20 are:- June 19, 4PM at Holy Cross
- June 19, 5PM at St. Maximilian Kolbe
- June 20, 8AM at St. Maximilian Kolbe
- June 20, 9AM at St. Bartholomew
- June 20, 10AM at Holy Cross
- June 20, 10:30AM at St. Maximilian Kolbe
Thank you for all of your help in honoring our High School Graduates of 2021!!
May News: Reserve a Tee Time for the Crazy Croquet Classic & Cookout to Benefit Our Parish Ministries
Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Calvary Council #8144, this rousing round of croquet crossed with miniature golf will be followed by a cookout and comradery!- When - May 16, 12:00 noon (Rain date: May 23)
- Where - St. Maximilian Kolbe Church
- Cost - $5.00 per team (up to 5 people)
Reserve a tee time, 12:00 to 5:00 p.m., by contacting Tom Osborne (749-8250)
Lunch is available (Hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, desserts, and drinks)
Prizes - Highest and lowest scores, best dressed team, best team name, and more!
May News: Ascension Thursday is a Holy Day of Obligation. Its schedule is as follows:
- 7:30 am at Holy Cross Church
- 8:00 am at St. Max
- 5:00 pm at St. Bart
- 6:00 pm at St. Max (in person & livestreamed)
May News: The Parish Mission Team Would Love Your Feedback
The St. John Paul II Parish Mission Team has launched a survey in order to get your feedback and help in planning for future Parish Missions.
Click here to fill out the survey: https://forms.gle/DWg1gPWtRB9KPJiF8
Any thoughts you have are greatly appreciated.
May News: 2021 Vacation Bible School
Embark on an epic quest through hidden ruins, ancient caves, and dense jungles. Discover God’s greatest treasure isn’t diamonds, gems, or gold — it’s His children! We have set a date for Vacation Bible School!
In prayerful hope that we will be allowed to have 100 people in the building by August, we have scheduled August 2-6 (8:30a.m.-12:00 noon) for this year’s VBS.
To sign up, please go to http://vbspro.events/p/events/be64cf.sdf
The cost for the week is $50.00 per child for grades 3-5 and $35.00 per child for grades 6-8.
May News: Our parish hosts various events every May meant to honor Mary:
1.) Recitation of the Rosary has resumed after the 4pm Mass at Holy Cross Church each First Saturday of the month in honor of Our Lady of Fatima. Those in attendance at mass will be welcome to stay in their pew for this time of prayer. If you are unable to attend mass we have another First Saturday Rosary opportunity via a Phone Rosary on the 1st Saturday, every month at 8 am: Dial-in number: (425) 436-6399 Access code: 2883277#
2.) Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary is taking place every Monday for the month of May (3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st) following the 8am Mass at St. Bartholomew. We will gather outside by the Mary garden. All are invited.
3.) The May Crowning occurred last Sunday May 2 at St. Bartholomew Church in the Mary Courtyard. It is a Catholic tradition to honor Mary, our Mother, during the month of May by placing on her statue a crown of flowers. This lovely devotional ceremony has been a favorite in our churches for years.
April News: Mass Registration no longer required
Starting April 11 there will be no signups for Sunday Masses. Mass attendance will only be on a first come, first served basis. Read more about our Updated Mass Attendance Numbers and Protocols here
April News: St. Maximilian Kolbe Church and the Parish Office will be opening to the public on April 5th
After a long year, St. Maximilian Kolbe Church and the parish office will open their doors to all. In order to keep everyone safe, there are bottles of hand sanitizer and surface sanitizer at the entrance of the church. Please sanitize your hands when you arrive and sanitize the area you use (your pew, the pew in front of you, and the kneeler) before you leave. We are excited to welcome you back!
April News: View our monthly e-mail newsletter
The monthly e-mail newsletter for April should have arrived in your inbox by now. Here is an online version for your viewing
April News: Sacramental Preparation for Teens and Adults
Are you an adult or teen that never had the opportunity to receive your Confirmation? Our parish will be hosting the Confirmation and First Communion Ceremony for anyone baptized in the Catholic Church who is a teen or adult on May 14 at St. Maximilian Kolbe. Contact Michelle Valcourt for more information on how to prepare for the Sacraments.
April News: Join us for Adoration
We invite you to spend some time before our Lord Jesus in adoration of the Blessed Eucharist each week immediately following the 8:00 a.m. Thursday Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe.
To help with our sanitizing process, please spray your seat area after leaving.
Starting May 7th and every first Friday of the month thereafter, Holy Hours are also being celebrated on a monthly basis after the First Friday 7:30 a.m. Mass at Holy Cross Church.
Friendly reminder: a face mask covering your nose and mouth must be worn at all times.
March News: Sacramental Preparation
Are you an adult or teen that never had the opportunity to receive your Confirmation? Our parish will be hosting the Confirmation and First Communion Ceremony for anyone baptized in the Catholic Church who is a teen or adult on May 14 at St. Maximilian Kolbe. Contact Michelle Valcourt for more information on how to prepare for the Sacraments.
March News: Consecration to St. Joseph
During this year of St. Joseph, St. John Paul II parish will be offering a chance to gather for the St. Joseph Consecration. You can join Fr. Peter and Michelle Valcourt for our virtual discussion each Monday evening at 6PM, you can read the consecration to St. Joseph by Fr. Donald Calloway or you can do both. Contact Michelle Valcourt for the link to the virtual discussion. On May 1, we will gather in person at St. Maximilian Kolbe at 1PM to pray the prayers of consecration together or join us through the live stream.
March News: Check your e-mail
Check your e-mail inboxes (and spam folders) for a special edition of our new e-mail newsletter with breaking news about the increase in Mass attendance numbers beginning on Palm Sunday. If you'd like to view it online, you can also click this link: http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/1760393/6a80 ceb955/543597811/255c4d4bb9/
March News: Palm Sunday & Easter Sunday Mass Registration
We will open registration for Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday on 3/15/21. You can register by clicking here.
March News: Mass Attendance Increases to 50% Capacity
With the increase in capacity allowed by the state, we are able to seat more people at Mass.- This allows us to revise our registration process.
- Your registration will now guarantee seating for the Mass, but no longer ensure seating specifically in the church or hall.
- The church doors will open 20 minutes before the start of Mass.
- The seating for registered families will now be on a first-come first-served basis.
- Seating Attendants will direct attendees to their seat based on their time of arrival.
- Seating will be provided in the church to capacity and then the hall for additional seating.
Our Communion protocols have been updated as well.- With the attendants’ assistance, all persons in a pew will exit toward the side aisle, receive the Eucharist, and return to their pew entering on the opposite side. It is no longer necessary for you to exit and enter on the same side.
- Masks are required and must be worn over your nose and mouth.
- Please always maintain social distancing.
- All churches will continue to be sanitized after every Mass.
March News: New E-Mail Newsletter
Did you receive the first volume of our newsletter? If not click here to view.
February News: First Saturday Rosary
Recitation of the Rosary in honor of Our Lady of Fatima will resume on the First Saturday of the month after the 4:00 p.m. Mass at Holy Cross Church. Those at
attendance at Mass are welcome to stay in their pew for this time of prayer. The next first Saturday is March 6.
If you are unable to attend in person, take part in the First Saturday Telephone Rosary at 8:00 a.m. The dialin number is 4254366399 and the access code is 2883277#.
February News: Availability of the Eucharist
We recognize that many in our community do not feel safe in attending Mass in person. We encourage those parishioners to watch our livestreamed Mass on our website or view a Mass on television. Unfortunately, a livestream Mass does not enable a person to receive the Eucharist. Those who would like to receive the Eucharist after viewing a Mass are invited to come to St. Maximilian Kolbe Church on Sundays, 11:45-12:15 p.m. A priest will be available in the church. All participants must wear masts and follow social distancing.
February News: St. Patrick's Day Take Out Lunch
A St. Patrick’s Day Take Out Lunch is being held at St. Bartholomew on March 14, 12:00-1:00 p.m. Contact Angela Best (2334216, bestn92@gmail.com) to order.
February News: 40 Cans of Lent
During this time and due to COVID, many people are finding themselves struggling to feed their families and pay their rent. One way we can help is through "40 Cans of Lent." Go here to learn more
February News:
The Diocese of Portland’s Office of Lifelong Faith Formation will partner with William H. Sadlier, Inc., to offer a free webinar for parents, guardians, catechists, and parish leaders. Learn more here
February News: Snow Day Reminders:
1.) Daily Mass and Snow Days
When there is a snow storm which causes South Portland to cancel school for the day and when a daily/weekday Mass was scheduled for that day at Holy Cross Church, the scheduled morning Mass will automatically be cancelled.
By making this “rule”, we avoid the difficulty of trying to notify daily Mass goers at Holy Cross in the event of a storm when the priest may be unable to get there.
In this event, the priest will celebrate a private Mass for the Mass Intention of that day. Daily Masses are never cancelled at St. Maximilian Kolbe or St. Bartholomew Churches since a priest lives at those rectories and can always get to Mass.
2.) Parish Office and Snow Days
When there is a snow storm which causes Cape Elizabeth, South Portland, or Scarborough schools to close, the parish office will also be closed.
February News: World Marriage Day Parishioner Video
Today is World Marriage Day, the conclusion of National Marriage Week! Please view a video of our parishioners on their wedding day and anniversary celebrations.
February News: Lent information is available on the website
Learn about Lenten parish programming, observances and COVID regulations on our website.
February News: Deacon Mark wraps up class 5 of his Bible Study
We welcome you to join us for Deacon Mark's last class on the Book of Jeremiah. Thank you for joining us each week and we look forward to offering you more opportunities to join us through Lent.
February News: Generator Generosity Keeps Power On at Holy Cross School During South Portland Outage on Thursday
“Due to a major CMP power outage, the South Portland School Department canceled classes for Thursday, January 28, but Holy Cross was able to stay open for in-person learning,” said Cindy Elwood, principal of Holy Cross, located on 436 Broadway.
The generator was donated to Holy Cross by SHP and installed by Gowen Power, which donated the labor, transfer switch, gas connection, and installation materials. The entire project came at no cost to the school. Read more here
February News: "Souper" Bowl Weekend
Due to the pandemic, parishes in Maine are taking different approaches to this year’s “Souper” Bowl of Caring. The annual event, always held on Super Bowl Weekend, is a weekend of giving and serving during which 100% of the monetary and food donations collected will be given to local charities to help tackle hunger in the community.
At St. John Paul II Parish, the youth of the parish will have soup pots set up in the narthexes of the three parish churches (St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, Scarborough; St. Bartholomew Church, Cape Elizabeth; Holy Cross Church, South Portland) at the end of every weekend Mass for parishioners to donate. The parish is also offering an opportunity for those unable to attend weekend Mass to participate by mailing a check made out to St. John Paul II Parish with “Souper Bowl” written on the envelope or in the subject line to: St. John Paul II Parish, 150 Black Point Road, Scarborough, ME 04074. Every dollar donated will go to help feed the hungry in the three communities.
February News: Parish Retreat Scheduled
Women of our parish are invited to gather virtually to experience a retreat based on "Consoling the Heart of Jesus: A Do-it-yourself Retreat Inspired by the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius" by Michael Gaitley.
The retreat is a blend of traditions including Ignatian Spirituality, saints, & Divine Mercy. The goal is to help us bring our hearts closer to Christ. It includes short weekly readings in advance. The group will watch the videos together as part of the weekly session and then discuss.
The 10 week retreat uses a book, workbook, and videos (available on FORMED through our parish subscription). We will begin on Thursday, February 25th and continue to meet on March 4, 11,18, 25 & April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6 from 9:30-11am. Participants can contact Jennifer Hansen at wwpmaine@gmail.com to receive the meeting link. The book can be found online or through the Abbey Bookstore.
January News: Funerals Scheduled
To see a list of currently scheduled funerals, click here.
January News: Consoling the Heart of Jesus Retreat Announced
Consoling the Heart of Jesus: A Do-it-yourself Retreat starts on Thursday, April 29, 2021, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM and repeats every Thursday until May 6, 2021. Consoling the Heart of Jesus: A Do-it-yourself Retreat Inspired by the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. by Michael Gaitley. Women of our parish will be gathering virtually to experience this retreat which is a blend of traditions including Ignatian Spirituality, saints, & Divine Mercy. The goal is to help us bring our hearts closer to Christ. It includes short weekly readings in advance. The group will watch the videos together as part of the weekly session and then discuss. The 10 week retreat uses a book, workbook, and videos (available on FORMED through our parish subscription). We will begin on Thursday, February 25th and continue to meet on March 4, 11,18, 25 & April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6 from 9:30-11am.
Participants can contact Jennifer Hansen at wwpmaine@gmail.com to receive the meeting link. The book can be found online or through the Abbey Bookstore.
January News: Let us Dream Book Discussion Announced
The Let Us Dream Book Discussion starts February 24, 2021, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM and repeats every Wednesday until March 17, 2021. This Lent, Barbara Smith will be leading a book discussion on Let Us Dream, the Path to a Better Future by Pope Francis. In this uplifting and practical book, written in collaboration with his biographer, Austen Ivereigh, Pope Francis explains why we must—and how we can—make the world safer, fairer, and healthier for all people now. This will be an online discussion that will be meeting on Wednesdays from February 24- March 17 from 10-11AM.
This book is published by Simon & Schuster and available on Amazon but can also be ordered through the Abbey Bookstore in Scarborough. Contact Michelle Valcourt at the parish office for more information.
January News: Join us for a St. Joseph 7 Sunday Devotion
The St. Joseph 7 Sunday Devotion starts on Sunday, January 31, 2021 and Repeats every Sunday until March 14, 2021Begun by the Franciscans, is the Seven Sundays Devotion, this devotion meditates on the seven sorrows and the seven joys of St. Joseph. This devotion is prayed on the seven Sundays leading up to the Solemnity of St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin on March 19. To learn more about the Devotion, please visit here
You can find the prayers themselves on this website
January News: Join us for a St. Joseph Event
On December 8, 2020, Pope Francis issued an apostolic letter, Patris Corde (“With a Father’s Heart”), for the 150th anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as the Patron of the Universal Church. To mark the occasion, the pope proclaimed a year dedicated to Mary’s husband, Joseph, foster father to Jesus. The special “Year of St. Joseph” will be held through December 8, 2021.
Our parish will holding our first celebration of the Year of St. Joseph on January 28 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM at St. Maximilian Kolbe. We will also be livestreaming this event. Join us to learn more about the Year of St. Joseph with an opportunity for prayer and meditation. In person attendance will be on a first come, first serve basis.
January News: Steeple Construction Completed
The construction on the steeple has been completed. Daily Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe at 8 AM will return on Wednesday January 27. Eucharistic Adoration will also return to St. Maximilian on Thursdays from 8:30- 9:30 AM.
January News: Holy Cross School Enrollment
Holy Cross School will begin accepting applications for new student enrollment February 1.
You may request an application packet by calling Casie Hitchcock at (207) 799-6661, emailing casie.hitchcock@portlanddiocese.org or by visiting our website: http://holycrossmaine.org/
We look forward to hearing from you!
January News: Funerals Scheduled
To see a list of currently scheduled funerals, click here.
December News: Phone Bank Update
VIRTUAL PHONE BANK
Volunteers from throughout St. John Paul II Catholic Parish’s three churches began calling their fellow parishioners this week in an effort to connect with those especially affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Because they are members of all 3 of our churches, they come from different parts of Southern Maine and as a result may be calling from unfamiliar phone numbers. We are not asking for money or anything other than to see how you are doing, and to ensure that your information is up to date in our database.
Those interested in helping from the safety of their own home should contact Communications Associate Ryan Bilodeau at ryan.bilodeau@portlanddiocese.org
December News: Steeple Update
WEEKDAY MASS UPDATE
Until further notice, Wednesday and Thursday daily Mass will be held temporarily at 7:30 AM at Holy Cross in South Portland. This change will remain while work on the St. Maximilian steeple continues.
Weekend Masses remain the same with the regular Saturday and Sunday Masses at St. Maximilian.
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