6. The Healing of the Man Born Blind: A Revelation of Divine Purpose
In the Gospel of John, we encounter a profound narrative of healing that transcends physical restoration to unveil deeper truths about divine purpose and the transformative power of faith. The story begins with Jesus encountering a man blind from birth, prompting his disciples to inquire about the cause of his condition – whether it was the result of his sin or that of his parents.
Jesus' response challenges conventional notions of sin and suffering, shifting the focus from assigning blame to recognizing an opportunity for the works of God to be made visible. He declares, "Neither he nor his parents sinned; it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him." This statement underscores the redemptive purpose inherent in human suffering, as it becomes a canvas upon which God's glory and transformative power are displayed.
Moreover, Jesus uses this encounter to impart a profound lesson about the urgency of doing the works of God while there is still time. He declares, "We have to do the works of the one who sent me while it is day. Night is coming when no one can work." This admonition serves as a call to action, urging his followers to seize the opportunity to participate in God's redemptive work in the world.
As Jesus proceeds to heal the man born blind, he demonstrates his divine authority and power through a simple yet profound act. He spits on the ground, makes clay with the saliva, and applies it to the man's eyes, instructing him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. The man obeys, and in an instant, his sight is restored, marking a miraculous transformation that symbolizes the illumination of spiritual truth and the revelation of God's redemptive power.
Read more: 6. The Healing of the Man Born Blind: A Revelation of Divine Purpose
Community Service At It's Best ~ 9th Grade Confirmation Class
This past April 7th, the 9th grade Confirmation class completed a community service event of assembling 120 bags of breakfast food items that were donated by the parishioners and the 9th grade Confirmation families of STJF to benefit ImmaCare Inc. located in Hartford. ImmaCare Inc., strives to eliminate homelessness in the Hartford region, by creating safe and affordable housing options and increasing the skills, income and hope of those who struggle with housing crisis. They had so much fun assembling these bags knowing that this food will help all those people in need in the Hartford area. A HUGE Thank You for all those families who donated these yummy food items! It was received with much appreciation!
5. Walking on Water: A Lesson in Faith and Trust
The biblical account of Jesus walking on water, as recorded in the Gospels, is a timeless narrative that continues to captivate hearts and minds, offering profound insights into the nature of faith, trust, and the divine presence amidst life's storms. This extraordinary event unfolds amidst a backdrop of tumultuous waves and winds, serving as a powerful demonstration of Jesus' authority over nature and his ability to instill courage and faith in his disciples.
The scene is set as Jesus, having dismissed the crowds, retreats to a mountain to pray, seeking solitude and communion with his heavenly Father. Meanwhile, his disciples embark on a journey across the Sea of Galilee, only to find themselves battling against fierce winds and waves as they struggle to reach their destination. In the midst of the storm, Jesus appears to them, walking on the water during the fourth watch of the night.
Upon catching sight of Jesus, the disciples are gripped by fear and confusion, mistaking him for a ghost amidst the tumultuous sea. In response, Jesus speaks words of reassurance and comfort, urging them to take courage and dispelling their fears with the simple declaration, "It is I; do not be afraid."
It is Peter, ever impulsive and eager in his faith, who responds to Jesus' call with a bold request: "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." In a remarkable display of faith, Peter steps out of the boat and begins to walk on the water towards Jesus. However, as he becomes aware of the raging winds and waves, fear creeps in, causing him to falter and begin to sink.
We Would Love to Have You Participate
There are many opportunities to participate in St. John Fisher Parish life by demonstrating your given talents and skills - be it in the various volunteer ministries, social groups or in support of staffed positions. In addition, we are looking for help in the following areas:
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Care and watering of the inside church plants and flowers
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Altar decorations and outdoor door decorations
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Decorating and care of the entrance areas and vestibule
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Periodic ironing of the altar cloths and banners
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Communications - internal, external and written correspondence
Please let our church secretary, Heather, know if you are able to help out in any of the above areas. Our many thanks in advance!
4. The Return of the Twelve and the Miraculous Feeding of the Five Thousand: A Testament to Divine Provision
In the Gospel narratives, the account of the return of the Twelve Apostles to Jesus and the subsequent feeding of the five thousand stands as a testament to the compassionate heart and miraculous provision of Jesus Christ. This powerful episode unfolds against the backdrop of a deserted place, where Jesus withdraws in a boat seeking solitude after receiving news of the death of John the Baptist. However, his solitary retreat is interrupted by a vast crowd who follows him on foot from their towns, hungering for his healing touch and life-giving words.
Upon seeing the multitude, Jesus' heart is moved with compassion, and he begins to cure their sick, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to minister to the physical and spiritual needs of those who seek him. As the day progresses and evening approaches, the disciples express concern for the well-being of the crowd, noting the deserted nature of the place and the lateness of the hour. They suggest sending the people away to nearby villages to procure food for themselves.
🤝 It’s Coffee and Donuts and Friends and Fellowship
It’s meeting new parishioners or connecting with those you’ve seen in church, but maybe never met.
It’s time to enjoy conversations and even brief moments of passing greetings.
It’s talking over Mass, the homily, or music.
It’s plans for Easter, dinner, or time at home with family.
It’s time to share pictures, experience you’ve have had or are coming up.
Thank you for the opportunity to bring this all together.
3. Healing at the Pool of Bethesda: A Testament to Jesus' Compassion
In the heart of Jerusalem, near the Sheep Gate, lies a pool known in Hebrew as Bethesda, surrounded by five porticoes. This site, steeped in history and significance, serves as the backdrop for a profound encounter between Jesus and a man who had been afflicted with illness for thirty-eight years. The narrative unfolds as a testament to Jesus' compassion and power to bring about miraculous healing.
The scene is set with a description of the pool of Bethesda, where a multitude of individuals suffering from various ailments – the ill, blind, lame, and crippled – gather in hope of receiving healing. Among them is a man who has languished in illness for nearly four decades, his life marked by suffering and despair.
Jesus, in his divine wisdom and compassion, approaches the man and engages him in a simple yet profound question: "Do you want to be well?" This inquiry goes beyond the surface level of physical healing; it delves into the depths of the man's desire for restoration and transformation.
The man, in his response, reveals the obstacles that have hindered him from receiving healing – the lack of assistance to lower him into the pool when its waters are stirred, believed to possess healing properties. His words resonate with a sense of resignation and hopelessness, reflecting the struggles faced by many who grapple with illness and adversity.
Read more: 3. Healing at the Pool of Bethesda: A Testament to Jesus' Compassion
Exciting News: Planning to Offer Children's Liturgy of the WordÂ
Priest Shares Powerful Truth About Catholicism!
Priest Shares Powerful Truth About Catholicism!
Archbishop’s Annual Appeal
The 2024 Archbishop’s Annual Appeal is now underway. Your support of this year’s Appeal ensures that essential charitable, educational and pastoral ministries of the Archdiocese of Hartford will be carried forward.
Since 1997, Archbishop’s Annual Appeal Vicariate Outreach Program has been able to provide over $21 million in funding to community-based local charities throughout Hartford, New Haven and Litchfield Counties to assist them in their important work of serving the needs of God’s people. In 2023, we were able to provide nearly $900,000 to over 150 various organizations. Organizations such as AHM and Marlborough Food Bank, right here in our own town, received funding.
Building Our Faith, One Page at a Time
Continue your Lenten journey with a selection from the Liturgical Seasons section of our Lending Library, such as:
“Lent, an Uncommon Love Story”
“Thirsting for Prayer”
“Bread and Wine: Readings for Lent & Easter”
“Living with the Mind of Christ”
ST. JOHN FISHER LENDING LIBRARY
2. The Second Sign at Cana: A Story of Faith and Healing
In the Gospel of John, the account of Jesus' second sign at Cana offers a profound narrative of faith, healing, and the transformative power of belief. Set in the town of Cana in Galilee, this miracle involves a royal official whose son is gravely ill in Capernaum. Let's delve into the rich layers of this narrative and explore its timeless lessons.
The story unfolds with the introduction of a royal official, a man of status and authority, whose desperation leads him to seek out Jesus upon hearing of his arrival in Galilee. Faced with the looming specter of his son's impending death, the official approaches Jesus with a plea for healing. Despite the urgency of the situation, Jesus responds cryptically, challenging the crowd's dependence on signs and wonders as a condition for belief.
In the face of Jesus' enigmatic response, the royal official persists in his plea, pleading with Jesus to come down and heal his dying son. Jesus, however, offers a surprising directive: "You may go; your son will live." In this moment, the official is confronted with a test of faith – to trust in Jesus' words without tangible proof or to succumb to doubt and despair.
Remarkably, the official chooses to believe. His journey back to Capernaum becomes a testament to his newfound faith as he encounters his servants on the road, who deliver the news of his son's miraculous recovery. The timing of the healing aligns precisely with Jesus' declaration, serving as a tangible confirmation of the divine intervention at work.
Read more: 2. The Second Sign at Cana: A Story of Faith and Healing
- Introduction to 10 Miracles of Jesus - 1. The Wedding at Cana
- Understanding Jesus as "The Lamb"
- The Entire Mass is from Scripture!
- AHM Bake Sale Photographs
- CRS Spotlight
- Drive-Thru Café Was a Huge Success!
- Service to Our Community ~ The Christian Outreach Committee
- Lenten Recipes ~ Compiled by the Ladies of St. John Fishers
- Photos of the Vatican Eucharistic Miracles Display
- A Wonderful Outpouring at the Vatican Eucharstic Miracles Display
- St. John Fisher Confirmation Class Bake Sale February 24-25
- Christian Outreach Committee & Community Giving Garden 2024Â
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