Parish News

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT OUR LADY'S...

JANUARY 19/20 - ROSARY HELD AT 12 NOON IN CHURCH FOR PEACE IN OUR WORLD AND IN OUR NATION

JANUARY 17, 2021 - OUTDOOR MASS

35 weeks we have been blessed with weather allowing us to continue our outdoor Masses. Over 200 people bundled up and braved the wind and cold. We need to keep our distance from each other, BUT not from God.

JANUARY 16/17 INDOOR MASSES

We are grateful to be able to continue our indoor Masses. Thank you to all the volunteers who make sure social distancing is maintained and thank you to all who understand this is for everyone’s safety.

JANUARY 9/10, 2021

Photos from Masses from January 9/10 weekend which concluded the Christmas Season.

GRATEFUL TO GOD FOR OUR 34TH CONSECUTIVE SUNDAY WITH GOOD WEATHER FOR OUR OUTDOOR MASSES

THANK YOU TO THE VOLUNTEERS WHO DECORATED OUR CHURCH ON CHRISTMAS EVE

OUR LADY'S PARISH SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS - 2020

Every year at Christmas, our Choirs would sing Christmas songs before our Christmas Eve Masses. With the change in this year, we still wanted to bring cheer to those who could not make it in person to our Masses. Some of our cantors, Alexandra and Alfreda Antonyraj, Lily Mass and Ron Martin, led by our music director Greg Castano recorded songs. A video was put together by Antony and Amali Antonyraj for all to enjoy. We hope you enjoy. Click HERE to listen.

CHRISTMAS EVE OUTDOOR MASSES - DECEMBER 24, 2020

The good Lord again blessed us with mild weather which allowed us to hold two of our four Christmas Masses outdoors.

THANK YOU TO THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS WHO CAME AND HELPED SET UP FOR THE OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS EVE MASSES

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT - DECEMBER 19 and 20, 2020

FR. DIPERRI AND FR. PHAM ADDED EXTRA CONFESSIONS TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS ON DEC. 19

MEMBERS OF OUR KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HANGING DONATED WREATHS FOR THE CHURCH

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT - DECEMBER 13, 2020

ST. VINCENT DEPAUL MEMBERS SEPARATING GIFTS GIVEN TO THOSE IN NEED OF THE PARISH FROM THEIR CHRISTMAS GIVING TREE PROGRAM

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is there for parishioners and other persons in our local area during their time of greatest need. Thank you to all who have humbly, quietly and faithfully contributed. We truly appreciate your thoughtfulness and continued donations.

FR. DIPERRI GIVING ALL THE BLESSING FROM RELIC OF ST. LUCY, PATRON SAINT OF THE EYES

DONATIONS TO THE HOMELESS OF BRISTOL LODGE FROM OUR LADY'S PARISH

Through donations of generous parishioners, Our Lady's purchased Burger King gifts cards for the homeless at Bristol Lodge Shelter. Hopefully giving them a few hot meals or hot coffee will help.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT - DECEMBER 6, 2020

Photos from December 5 and 6 weekend Masses. A hardy 38 people attended the Saturday 4:30pm indoor Mass traveling through the blowing snow. We had 85 shovel out to make it to the 9:00am indoor Mass and 137 braved the wind and cold and joined us at the 11:45am outdoor Mass.

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT - NOVEMBER 29, 2020

We were able to celebrate two indoor Masses and were again blessed with beautiful weather for our 28th consecutive week being able to celebrate our outdoor Mass.

THANKSGIVING DAY MASS

Photos taken from our Thanksgiving Day Mass. It was a rainy morning. We are grateful to God that we are able to celebrate Mass indoors with limited capacity.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CHRISTMAS WREATH SALE

Pictures below of some of the members of our Parish-based Knights of Columbus with Christmas wreath sale for parish and charities. Thank you to all who took part purchased a Wreath.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM
Our program continues weekly as we teach the faith and we continue to keep volunteer teachers and children safe during these unprecedented times. Thank you to all who give of themselves to teach our children their faith. Pictured are grades 1 and 3 with Mr. Tom Fallon.

ST. VINCENT DEPAUL GIVING TREE

We are grateful to all who have/or will take cards from the Giving Tree. Please know that we need all the gift cards returned by the end of the 11:45am Mass on Sunday, December 13. They may be placed in one of the two collection boxes in the church at any time or can be dropped off at the parish office until Friday, December 11. KINDLY DO NOT LEAVE THEM AT THE RECTORY.

We thank you for your participation and cooperation in our program and may you and your family be safe and enjoy the Blessings of Christmas.

Photos below from November 22 Sunday outdoor Mass, 27th week in a row with good weather. By far the coolest, but thankfully no rain.

Photos from this last Sunday’s indoor Mass on November 22. Grateful to god to be able to move back inside with limited capacity.

MESSAGE FROM FR. DIPERRI ON STATEMENT FROM CARDINAL O'MALLEY ON ABORTION AMENDMENT

November 18, 2020

The Cardinal asked that we reach out to all parishioners on a most urgent matter.

Last Friday, November 13, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed an amendment to the state budget, which greatly expands abortion in the Commonwealth.

This measure now rapidly moves to the State Senate where a vote will soon take place. Please see the Cardinal’s letter for the specific details.

Because of the speed that this matter is moving through the legislature, we are encouraging people to prayerfully consider calling/emailing their local State Senator and urge him/her to vote NO on any amendment that dramatically expands abortion in Massachusetts and lessens the few remaining protections on the sanctity of life.

Waltham/Lexington District:
- SENATOR MICHAEL J. BARRETT – (617) 722-1572 - mike.barrett@masenate.gov

Belmont area District:
- WILLIAM BROWNSBERGER – (617) 722-1280 - william.brownsberger@masenate.gov

Please visit www.macatholic.org for further listing of Senators if you live beyond the noted communities.

To read Cardinal Sean O’Malley’s letter – click HERE

God Bless you,

Fr. DiPerri, Pastor

OUTDOOR SUNDAY MASS - NOVEMBER 15, 2020

Photos below taken at our outdoor Mass on Sunday, November 15. Our 6th month/26th weekend in a row we have been blessed with good weather to celebrate our outdoor Mass. A little chilly, but still beautiful.

EUCHARISTIC EXPOSITION WITH DEACON DAN MCHALE NOVEMBER 13

FR. DIPERRI TEACHING OUR LADY'S ACADEMY RELIGION CLASS - NOVEMBER 10

OUR LADY'S PARISH CCD - NOVEMBER 8, 2020

Photos from last Sunday’s Religious Education Sunday morning program. Thank you to our students, parents and volunteers for your continued dedication, participation and support in teaching the Word of God and in keeping everyone safe in the process.

OUTDOOR SUNDAY MASS, NOVEMBER 8, 2020

Photos below taken outdoor Mass last weekend, November 8. Our 25th weekend in a row we were blessed with beautiful weather.

FIRST FRIDAY SCHOOL MASS, NOVEMBER 6, 2020

Photos from first Friday Our Lady’s School Mass on November 6. Congratulations to Gabriella DeStefano who received her First Communion.

REST IN PEACE—FR. BLACKWOOD

Please remember in your prayers Fr. Wallace Blackwood. Fr. Blackwood died on November 1, 2020. He was the 8th pastor of Our Lady’s from 1988 until 1994. Pray that his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.

OUTDOOR SUNDAY MASS - 24th SUNDAY IN A ROW BLESSED WITH CHILLY, BUT GOOD WEATHER - NOVEMBER 1, 2020

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION - NOVEMBER 1, 2020

Thank you to our CCD volunteers who are here weekly helping spread the word of God to the youth of our parish. Taking the health and safety protocols very seriously, the volunteers proudly wear embroidered Religious Ed masks specifically designed by parishioner Suzie Winchester-Miller.

Beatification of Father McGivney – October 31, 2020

On May 26, 2020, Pope Francis approved a decree recognizing a miracle attributed to the intercession of Father McGivney. A much anticipated step toward sainthood, the pope’s approval opens the way for Fr. McGivney to be beatified and declared Blessed.

ADORATION AND ROSARY FOR OUR NATION, OCTOBER 30 WITH FR. DIPERRI AND DEACON DAN

FR. DIPERRI TEACHING THE FAITH AT OUR LADY'S ACADEMY, OCTOBER 30

OUTDOOR SUNDAY MASS - 23RD SUNDAY IN A ROW BLESSED WITH BEAUTIFUL WEATHER - OCTOBER 25, 2020

OUTDOOR HALLOWEEN MASS FOR OUR LADY'S ACADEMY SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24

ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL SUNNY SUNDAY FOR OUTDOOR MASS, OCTOBER 18

If anyone told you last year that in the Summer of 2020, we would be in the midst of a pandemic BUT you will be blessed with 22 consecutive Sunday morning's with NO RAIN, you would not have believed it. But here we are, still in the midst of a pandemic and have been blessed with our 22nd Sunday with beautiful weather. May God continue to bless us all.

GRAND ANNUAL KICKOFF

Our 2020 Grand Annual talk was given October 18 by parishioiner and member of Our Lady's Parish Finance Committee, Jason Sweeney. He did a great job. Thank you Jason.

Fr. DiPerri's instruction with Grade 2 at Our Lady's Academy on Friday, October 16

OUTDOOR MASS, OCTOBER 11, 2020

So much is happening here at Our Lady's. We were blessed with another beautiful Sunday for us to celebrate our outdoor Mass.

October 10, 2020 - Outdoor Rosary on Waltham Common

OCTOBER 9 - EUCHARISTIC EXPOSITION AND ADORATION WITH DEACON DAN MCHALE

OUR LADY'S ACADEMY OUTDOOR ROSARY

School children and faculty praying for world and nation to honor God and ask Mary’s prayers for all her children before God’s Throne. Varying Services led by Fr Francis Pham and Fr DiPerri.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS AT OUR LADY'S - OCTOBER 6

On Tuesday, Fr. DiPerri and Fr. Pham celebrated the Blessing of the Animals which we do every year. Usually everyone brings in their pets, live and stuffed, and Father blesses them in the parking lot outside Our Lady's Academy. Well this year, with the pandemic, Father decided to keep everyone safe, he would do a "Drive-Thru" blessing of the animals. Worked out great.

OUR LADY'S ACADEMY OUTDOOR ROSARY GRADES 6-8 WITH FR. DIPERRI

OCTOBER 4 - 11:45AM CELEBRATION OF OUTDOOR MASS

OCTOBER 4 AT 9:00AM - FIRST SUNDAY CELEBRATION OF MASS INSIDE SINCE MARCH, 2020

OCTOBER 4 - OPENING DAY FOR OUR LADY'S RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM

OCTOBER 2ND - FIRST FRIDAY MASS FOR OUR LADY'S ACADEMY

SEPTEMBER 2020

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO OUR LADY’S ST. VINCENT DEPAUL SOCIETY FOUNDERS

Our Lady’s Chapter—30 Year Anniversary—Sunday, September 27

Appreciation to Our Lady’s Charter Founding Members: Dr. Vincent Failla, Peg Failla, Carole Portentoso and Lori Mazzarelli. They continue to this day the outreach to helping those in need in the name of Jesus Christ. Many thanks to those serving as members of the St. Vincent dePaul Society.

OUTDOOR MASS SEPTEMBER 27, 2020

ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL WEEKEND FOR OUTDOOR MASS

Truly a blessing to be able to celebrate Mass outdoors during these uncertain times.

Ainsley Flaherty received her First Communion at our September 20 outdoor Mass. Pictured below with her parents, Sean and Megan and baby sister, Mary.

ADORATION/ROSARY SERVICE on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 WITH FR. DIPERRI AND DEACON DAN MCHALE

Fr. DiPerri with students of Our Lady’s Academy. Creative ways to pass on the Faith during these challenging times.

CLASSROOM ADORATION PROCESSION WITH FR. FRANCIS

FATHER DIPERRI TEACHING KINDERGARTEN AND GRADE 5

CARDINAL SEAN O'MALLEY CELEBRATES OUTDOOR MASS AT OUR LADY'S - SEPTEMBER 13, 2020

Cardinal Seán O’Malley accepted Fr. DiPerri's invitation to celebrate an outdoor Mass at Our Lady’s. This Mass was an opportunity to join with our Cardinal Archbishop in praying for the end of this pandemic and to invoke God’s blessing upon our nation and the world. This was our 17th week in a row with beautiful Sunday morning weather.

CHURCH FLAT ROOF REPLACEMENT BY PROFESSIONAL ROOFING COMPANY

The replacement of two sides of Church flat roofs work has begun. This planned replacement is due to deteriorating conditions and to properly maintain parish property. Donations to the Church Building Fund has made this project possible. Any further donations toward this project would be appreciated by sending to Our Lady’s Parish by mail, dropping in collection container - inside or Sunday outside the church - or through one-time electronic giving found on our parish website. Simply mark Church Building Project.

VIDEO OF OUR LADY'S PARISH, PRE-COVID-19 THROUGH SUMMER 2020

Dear Parishioners:

A 16 minute video has been produced by volunteers highlighting some key moments of life here at Our Lady’s Parish in Waltham, MA, before and during the Coronavirus pandemic, through the summer of 2020.

The photography, audio and layout was conducted by parishioner, Lou Alvarez. The layout on the iMovie was done by a volunteer videographer and technician, and Kristina Kovacevich, worked on the final portion of the video formatting. On behalf of the parish, I express our gratitude for their dedication and quality work.

I am especially thankful to God for all His blessings and for all who strive to advance the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ at our parish, as we work together with those within our archdiocese and beyond. May Almighty God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, continue to strengthen each one of us during these challenging times. May the Blessed Virgin Mary continue to pray for us before the Throne of God. Together we journey as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Please know of my prayers for you and your families, as I kindly ask you to pray for me, and the needs of others throughout the world. Click HERE for video.

In Christ,

Fr. James M. DiPerri, Pastor

OUR LADY'S ACADEMY OPENING SCHOOL MASS - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020

Our Lady's Academy opened with on-site classes last Tuesday. Everyone was excited to get back. The faculty and students celebrated their first outdoor Mass on Friday. It was a bit cooler than we are used to, but went very well. Let us keep all students going back to school, in whatever manner, on-site, virtual or hybrid, in our prayers.

At this Mass, we also prayed for and remembered those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. We prayed for their families, the first responders and those who survivied and live with the memory of that tragic day.

CONGRATULATIONS TO FR. MAC LINGO

Fr. Mac Lingo served at Our Lady’s as his pastoral assignment in 2017-2018 - several hours each week - while pursuing his priestly formation at St. John’s Seminary. Congratulations to Fr. Mac Lingo and to the people whom he will serve as priest of the Diocese of Oakland California.

ADORATION AND ROSARY SERVICES WITH FR. PHAM - AUGUST 18 AND 25

Fr. Pham and those who attended prayed for racial harmony and peace throughout our world. They also prayed for an end to the pandemic.

FR. JOE HUBBARD CELEBRATES OUTDOOR MASS - AUGUST 9, 2020

Fr. Joe celebrated Mass on Sunday, August 9 here at Our Lady's. Another sunny morning we were blessed with. Fr. Joe is now assigned to St. Michael's Parish in North Andover. We wish him well and pray for him as he begins his faithfilled journey.

ORDINATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD - AUGUST 1, 2020

Congratulations to the following Deacons who were Ordained to the Priesthood August 1 at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.

May the Holy Spirit guide them in their ministry to the faithful of Jesus Christ.

Deacon Joseph Hubbard, Deacon Dennis Nakkeeran, Deacon Matthew Norwood, Deacon Fernando Vivas, Deacon Daniel Zinger

ADORATION AND ROSARY SERVICE - JULY 31, 2020

Fr. DiPerri held Adoration and a Rosary Service to pray for the Deacons who were to be ordianed into the priesthood on August 1. Fr. DiPerri and those who attended also prayed for racial harmony and peace throughout our world and nation.

FR. ROACH VISITS AND CON-CELEBRATES JULY 26 OUTDOOR MASS

FR. FRANCIS PHAM AND FR. DIPERRI VISIT MEADOW GREEN

On Tuesday, July 21, Fr. Pham and Fr. DiPerri had an outdoor Eucharistic procession around Meadow Green Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center organized by John Barry, parish volunteers with staff of Meadow Green for residents to spiritually support them.

DRIVE-IN MOVIE AT OUR LADY'S - Sponsored by Propagation of the Faith World Missions Sunday, August 9, 2020

JULY 19, 2020 - 9TH OUTDOOR MASS CELEBRATED AT OUR LADY'S

On July 19, we celebrated our 9th outdoor Mass. What another beautiful day it was. We have been blessed for the past 9 weeks with great weather and we hope it continues. Thank you to all who help make these outdoor Masses go so smoothly and a special thanks to Antonyraj Antony for doing whatever it takes to keep the phone cool enough to keep the Livestreaming of our Masses go uninterrupted. We are blessed!

DEDICATION OF MEMORIAL BENCH FOR LONG TIME PARISHIONER

On Tuesday, July 7, a Memorial Bench was blessed by Fr. DiPerri in memory of long time parishioner and dedicated volunteer Jane Leard. Members of Jane's family were present for her Mass and dedication including her precious grandson, Luke, who loved the bench.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR PASTOR, FR. JAMES M. DIPERRI

We pray in thanksgiving for our Pastor, Fr. James M. DiPerri as he celebrated his 32nd Anniversary of Priesthood Ordination on June 26.

The image below illustrates the Chalice containing the Blood of CHrist and Sacred Host which is the Body of Christ resting upon the Sacred Scriptures, covered by the priestly stole of ordination highlighting the significance of Mass. The olive branches symbolize the sacraments that blessed oil is used in their celebration. This articis image appeared on Fr. DiPerri's first Mass program in 1988.

Act of Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary written by Fr. DiPerri

Prayed publicly at first Mass on June 26, 1988 and prayed yearly on Ordination Anniversary.

O Most loving Mother of God, as I continue the work of your Son, I confidently entrust my priestly calling to you. Guide and protect me that I may be faithful to your Son, Jesus, and His Church, by fulfilling the sacred promises of my priestly vocation.

In my consecration to you, the Queen of Peace, may I ever seek refuge in your Immaculate Heart as I journey on this sacred pilgrimage.

May I grow deeper in my love for the One God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit; and for His people. Holy Mother, may I remain faithful in God's service to the end.

Amen

CELEBRATION OF MASS ON JUNE 21, 2020

Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ Outdoor Mass where 591 gathered socially distanced to partake in the Benediction at the end of Mass.

RACIAL HARMONY MESSAGES FROM CARDINAL SEAN O'MALLEY

Read Cardinal Sean O'Malley's HOMILY for Racial Justice on June 13, 2020 at Castle Island

Watch Cardinal Sean O'Malley VIDEO to Parishioners of the Archdiocese of Boston on Racism and the death of George Floyd.

FIRST COMMUNION CELEBRATION

First Communion celebrations were celebrated outdoors at Our Lady's on June 13 and June 27. Congratulations to all of the First Communicants.

CONFIRMATION CELEBRATION

The Archdiocese has given permission for local pastor's to confer the Sacrament of Confirmation in their parishes. Saturday, June 20, Confirmation was celebrated at Our Lady's outside in the church parking lot. Congratulations to all of the Confirmandi as they continue their journey of faith.

PRAYER SERVICE AT ST. MARY'S CHURCH FOR PEACE AND RACIAL HARMONY

On Friday, June 19, 2020 a Prayer Service for “Peace and Racial Harmony in the Nation and Throughout the World” was held at St. Mary’s Church in Waltham. Our Lady’s Parish collaborated in this effort – as this service was hosted by the Ugandan Catholic Community and St. Mary’s Parish.

HOLY HOUR AND MISSION TALK WITH DEACON JOE HUBBARD

Year of the Eucharist Holy Year – Our Lady’s Parish joined parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Boston during Mass on Sunday, June 14 in opening the Cardinal’s establishment of the “Year of the Eucharist”. Outdoor Eucharistic Adoration was beautifully celebrated June 15 and 16 to mark the beginning of our special year. Monday’s prominent theme was to also pray for Peace and Racial Harmony throughout the Nation and in the world, in addition to similar observance on Tuesday, as we join praying for justice and God’s blessings.

ROOF REPLACEMENT

Work has begun-Roof Replacement of Our Lady’s Academy (Early Childhood section ) by James and Patrick Shea of Professional Roofing. (June 8, 2020)

EUCHARISTIC BLESSING VISIT TO WALTHAM CROSSINGS SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

Fr. Francis Pham’s visit to Waltham Crossings for Eucharistic Adoration on June 3, 2020 coordinated by John Barry.

Click HERE for two prayers written by Pope Francis for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He is asking people to recite the Rosary and pray these prayers afterward especially during the month of May.

READ FR. DIPERRI'S LETTER TO UPDATE PARISH ON RESUMING MASSES - MAY 20, 2020 - Click HERE.

EUCHARISTIC BLESSING VISIT TO WALTHAM CROSSINGS SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

On Tuesday, May 12, Fr. DiPerri, Fr. Pham and Deacon Joe went to Waltham Crossings Assisted Living Facility and had an outside Eucharistic blessing for the residents. Some residents were able to come outside, but for those who could not, Fr. DiPerri, Fr. Pham and Deacon Joe processed around the building so the residents can be blessed through their windows. Let us continue to pray for each other during this crisis.

MAY 1 - Cardinal Sean and the Bishops of the US in a Prayer for the Consecration of the United States to the Care of the Blessed Mother.

APRIL 15, AT 2:49PM, Our Lady's Church BELLS rang in memory of the victims of the Boston Marathon.

Easter Sunday at 12 NOON ~ Ringing of Our Lady's Church BELLS joining in unison all churches of the Archdioceses of Boston.

Friday, March 27, 2020 - Fr. DiPerri and Deacon Joe Hubbard

Tuesday, March 24, 2020 - DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET - DEACON JOE HUBBARD

HAM-A-RAMA UPDATE

We hope to have a VIRTUAL Ham-a-Rama Spring Fundraiser. We are working out the details and will keep you posted.

PLEASE continue to mail in your tickets as the event WILL HAPPEN, it is just a matter of when.

Also, please still make the donations you planned on making. Email the parish office at parish@olca.org and we will make arrangements to get your donation.

Thank you for your continued support of Our Lady's and let us continue to pray for one another.

HAPPENINGS AT OUR LADY'S BEFORE THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK

Fire Truck Pictures

During our recent fire inspection at Our Lady's Academy, part of the Kindergarten class was lucky enough to take some pictures on the truck. We thank Waltham Fire and Waltham Police for always keeping us safe.

GIRL SCOUTS OF AMERICA

Last Sunday, March 8, the Girls Scouts from Waltham celebrated the 11:00am Mass with Our Lady's community. Below is a delegation representing the Girl Scouts.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LADY'S BASKETBALL TEAM

Last Sunday, March 8, Our Lady's Basketball Teams celebrated the 11:00am Mass in thanksgiving for a great season. Below is a delegation representing the Wildcats along team pictures.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS PASTA SUPPER

A great time was had by all who attended the Knights of Columbus Pasta Supper last Saturday, March 7. Congratuations to John Barry who received the Knight of the Year Award for all of his services to the Knights as well as to Our Lady's Parish.

FR. FRANCIS' VISIT HOME TO VIETNAM

Fr. Francis went home to visit his mother and family in Vietnam. He celebrated Mass in his home. He also celebrated Mass at his local parish church.

OUR LADY’S ACADEMY NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY

Congratulations to the new members of National Junior Honor Society from Our Lady’s Academy who celebrated their induction Mass on Friday, January 10.

FR. FRANCIS CELEBRATES MASS AND ANOINTS RESIDENTS AT WALTHAM CROSSINGS IN WALTHAM

During the first week in January, Fr. Francis Pham visited Waltham Crossings Assited Living and celebrated Mass and anointed residents of the facility.

MOSAIC BACKGROUNDS OF ST. THERESE AND ST. ANTHONY

Thanks to Suzanne Baratta Owayda of Mosaic Oasis Studio & Supply, Tom Anderson of Tom Anderson Tile Contracting and Beau Schless of Schless Studio for the design and installation of the back drop of St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Anthony.

Also many thanks to the Sanctuary Committee for volunteering to oversee both mosaic projects the past several months and especially to parishioners who donated the necessary funds to the Church Building Fund for making the project successful. Special thanks to Lou Alvarez who volunteered extensively on working on very specific details.

OUR LADY'S ACADEMY CHRISTMAS SHOW

On December 16 and 17, Our Lady’s Academy student body, led by Tom Fallon, the school’s Music Teacher, performed in the annual Christmas Show. What a great time.

ST. VINCENT DEPAUL GIVING TREE

The St. Vincent dePaul Conference of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted parish wishes to thank everyone for their generous support of the Giving Tree. This year 372 gifts were collected which assisted 33 local families, 96 family members and 75 Catholic Charities Foster Home children. Below is a picture of some members of Our Lady’s St. Vincent dePaul Society and those assisting last Sunday, December 15 in collecting the gifts from the Giving Tree and distributing them to those in need. Again, thank you for your kindness and generosity. Merry Christmas!

CONFIRMATION FIELD TRIP TO SEAPORT SHRINE AND SPIRIT OF BOSTON CRUISE

On December 14, Grades 9 and 10 joined Fr. DiPerri on an Advent Pilgrimage and Spirit of Boston Field Trip. The day started with Adoration at the Our Lady of Good Voyage Seaport Shrine and then continued with a cruise on the Spirit of Boston.

ADVENT PROJECT FROM CCD STUDENTS IN GRADES 7 AND 8 FOR THE LELAND HOUSE ASSISTED LIVING IN WALTHAM

Along with teachers Maria Caso, Claire O’Connell and Lorraine Rielly, the Religious Ed students in grades 7 and 8 made Christmas ornaments, Christmas cards and gift bags to be delivered to Leland House Assisted Living in Waltham bringing some Christmas cheer from Our Lady’s Parish to the residents.

CELEBRATION OF BAPTISM

On Monday, December 9 at the Immaculate Conception 9:00am school Mass, second grader Max Belbase, at his request, was Baptized and Confirmed. A small party was held in his classroom after the Mass. Fr. DiPerri then had Max and his family over to the rectory.

CONFIRMATION STUDENTS VISIT MEADOW GREEN AND WALTHAM CROSSINGS

On Sunday, December 8, Confirmation students in Grades 9 and 10 brought some Christmas Cheer to Meadow Green Rehabilitation Center and Waltham Crossings Assisted Living. The residents sang Christmas Carols with our students who also recited the Readings of the Day and distributed small bottles of holy water. Some of the students and residents tried their hand at a colorful Christmas Craft to decorate their rooms. Thank you to our Confirmation students, teachers and parents for this happy and entertaining morning at both Centers which meant so much to the staff and residents.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

On Sunday, December 8, our Parish School, Our Lady's Academy hosted its annual Breakfast with Santa. Over 600 people came to the event to enjoy breakfast, pictures with Santa, story time, face painting and great raffle prizes.

PIZZA PARTY AT THE RECTORY

On Friday, December 6, the Children's Choir and their families, along with choir director's Tom Fallon and Greg Castano, joined Fr. DiPerri at the rectory for a pizza party. A grea time was had by all.

ORDINATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD

On Saturday, November 30, we celebrated Fr. Francis Pham's Ordination into the Priesthood here at Our Lady's with Cardinal Sean O'Malley as celebrant. What a great day it was. All church photos of the Ordination are courtesy of George Martell.

Reception

CELEBRATION OF FIRST MASS

On Saturday, November 30 at 5:30pm at Our Lady' Church, Father Francis Huy Duc Pham celebrated his first Mass. We pray the the Lord will continue to bless Fr. Francis on this next journey of his life.

TURKEY-RAMA

Oh what a night! On Saturday, November 23, over 400 people gathered at Our Lady's for our annual Turkey-Rama Fundraiser. The night was filled with excitement as we kick off the hoilday season. Over 500 raffles were given away and a good time was had by all.

RETIREMENT LUNCHEON FOR FINANCE MANAGER

On Monday, November 18, Fr. DiPerri, Fr. English, Principal Minor, the parish staff and some parishioners gathered at the rectory with Miriam Dorovski as she retires after six years of service to Our Lady's. We wish her well and thank her for her dedication and service.

50th ANNIVERSARY

The weekend of November 9/10 we also celebrated the 50th Wedding Anniversary of parishioners. We wish them many more happy and healthy year's.

VETERAN'S DAY MASS

On Saturday, November 9 we celebrated our Veteran's at our 4:00pm Mass. We acknowledged all who were with us that served our country and we remembered all those who gave their lives. A nice reception was held in the back of church after Mass for all.

TV MASS CELEBRATED BY FR. DIPERRI

On Tuesday, November 5, Fr. DiPerri celebrated the TV Mass with Deacon Joe Hubbard and Deacon Francis Pham. Also in attedance were Fr. DiPerri's family and a few parishioners of Our Lady's.

OUR LADY'S ACADEMY TEACHER'S LUNCH AT THE RECTORY

Tuesday, November 5 was Professional Development Day and all the teacher's at Our Lady's Academy joined Fr. DiPerri at the rectory for lunch during their break.

MASS FOR THE DECEASED

On Sunday, November 3, Our Lady's remembered those who have been called home to the Lord since last November at the 11:00am Mass for the Deceased. During the Mass, the names of all deceased since last November were read aloud and a family member came forward to light a candle in their memory. This Mass was meant to help those who are grieving and let them know that we as a parish community are hear for them.

VISIT FROM ROWING TEAMS

On Saturday, October 20, the girls row team from Gwynedd Mercy Academy of Gwynedd Valley, PA and the men's row team from LaSalle College were in attendance at the 4:00pm Mass. They all took part in the Head of the Charles Regatta.

MARIAN CANDLELIGHT ROSARY SERVICE

On Friday, October 18, we held our Marian Candlelight Rosary Service in the church. The evening consisted of the recitation of the decades of the rosary enhanced with Marian hymns. We processed outside to the Blessed Mother statue where the final decade of the rosary was recited.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS PASTA SUPPER

The Knights of Columbus held their fall Pasta Supper on Saturday, October 5 at 5:00pm in the school cafeteria. A great time was had with music and dancing with guest entertainer Gary Leanues.

ROSARY RECITED AT THE BLESSED MOTHER STATUE

On Friday, October 4 at 8:30am, Fr. DiPerri and children from Our Lady's Academy recited the rosary at the Blessed Mother statue outside of the church followed by the first Friday Mass at 9:00am.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

On Tuesday, October 1 at 8:30am all the children in Our Lady's Academy brought their animals, yes, even the stuffed ones, and Fr. DiPerri blessed each and every one of them. There were all kinds of animals; dogs, birds, reptiles. What a sight!

OUR LADY'S CHOIRS - DINNER AT THE RECTORY

On Friday, September 13, approximately 70 from our Adult, Schola and Youth Choirs and their families joined Fr. DiPerri at the rectory for dinner. They were also joined by Music Director, Greg Castano and Children's Choir Director, Tom Fallon. A great night was had by all.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COOKOUT AT THE RECTORY

The Knights of Columbus and their families joined Fr. DiPerri for their annual cookout at the Rectory on Friday, July 12. Mother Nature was unsure of what to serve at the cookout as for the day she sent sun and rain! But for the hours of the cookout, she graced us with bright sun and humidity! A great time was had by all.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR PARISH SCHOOL - OUR LADY'S ACADEMY 2019 Boston Herald's Readers' Choice Awards

The Boston Herald's Readers' Choice Awards covers the Boston market and surrounding areas. This event begins in May with printed ballots in the Boston Herald newspaper. They also opened the voting to their digital readers through BostonHerald.com. Votes are compiled and the first place winners are notified and listed in the special Winners section of the Boston Herald at the end of June. Our Lady's Academy was a two-fold winner, winning for the Pre-School, as well as Private School, Grades 1-8. What a great accomplishment.

VISIT TO THE NEWLY RENOVATED CATHEDRAL OF THE HOLY CROSS SATURDAY, JUNE 29, 2019

A group of 50 visited the newly renovated Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Saturday, June 29 with Deacon Joe Hubbard and Fr. DiPerri in honor of Saints Peter and Paul. What a beautiful trip. The updates to the Cathedral are simply breath taking. Deacon Joe held Adoration in the Chapel. While the pictures are very nice, they do not do it justice. After the visit and Adoration, all went to Maggiano's Restaurant for lunch. A great time was had by all.

ADORATION/PRAYER SERVICE

Deacon Joe Hubbard led Adoration, a Prayer Service, Reflection and a Eucharistic Procession to celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on Friday, June 28.

THE MOST HOLY BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST (CORPUS CHRISTI)

On Sunday, June 23 at the 11:00am Mass, we celebrated the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ during Mass and concluded with a procession to the Blessed Mother statue outside where the Monstrance was placed on the stone altar. During the Mass, we also celebrated the Baptism of Kolyn Ward. During the procession, Kolyn was blessed in front of the Monstrance on the stone altar by Fr. DiPerri.

YOUNG ADULTS DINNER AT THE RECTORY

Young adults, ages 21-35, joined Deacon Joe Hubbard and Fr. DiPerri at the rectory for dinner on Friday, June 21.

FRANCISCAN RETREAT CENTER

Cardinal Sean with Boston Seminarians at the Franciscan Retreat Center in Kennebunkport, Maine from June 17-20, 2019

OUR LADY'S ACADEMY FACULTY ADORATION/REFLECTION

On Wednesday, June 5, Fr. DiPerri led an Adoration/Reflection time for Our Lady's Faculty as they come to the end of their academic year. A time to unwind, think about the year and be thankful.

OUR LADY'S GRADE 8 GRADUATION

Congratulations to Our Lady's Academy Class of 2019. Last Tuesday, June 4 our 8th Graders graduated and get ready to move onto High School. We wish them well as they begin the next journey of their lives. We remind them to always keep Jesus first and foremost and know they are always welcome at Our Lady's.

RE-DEDICATION OF FALZONE FIELD PARKACROSS FROM OUR LADY'S

On Tuesday, May 21, Fr. DiPerri and Our Lady's Choir, led by Music Teacher Mr. Tom Fallon, sang at the placing of the wreath for the annual re-dedication of Falzone Field.

ARCHDIOCESAN SCOUTING MASS, SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2019

This past Sunday, Fr. Paul Soper celebrated Mass here at Our Lady's for the Boys and Girls Scouts and their families at 2:00pm. We congratulate all of the achievements of young Scouts of young Scouts, the teen award recipients and the adult volunteers invested in Catholic Scouting. Some pictures below of the day.

DINNER AT THE RECTORY FOR BASKETBALL COACHES, MAY 18, 2019

This past Saturday, a delegation from Our Lady's Academy Wildcats Basketball coaches and families attended dinner at the rectory with Fr. DiPerri. Unfortunately all were not able to make it, but we thank all who give of their time and talent to help make Our Lady's basketball program a success.

FIRST COMMUNIONS - Sunday, May 5, 2019

Sixty-one students from Our Lady's Religious Education Program including students from Our Lady's Academy celebrated the Sacrament of First Communion at the 9 am and 11 am parish Masses on Sunday, May 5. The morning was a happy, holy and joyful occasion for all the families involved and for our parish family.

CONFIRMATION - Saturday, May 4, 2019

On Saturday. May 4, Bishop Robert Reed conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation to fifty students from Our Lady's Religious Education program.

MARIAN ROSARY SERVICE - Friday May 10, 2019

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, followed by the Marian Rosary Service. The last Decade was said in front of the Blessed Mother's statue, followed by the crowning of the statue.

YOUTH CHOIR - Pizza Party at the Rectory - Friday May 3, 2019

At the invitation of Father DiPerri, the children from the Youth Choir gathered at the Rectory on Friday May 3rd for pizza and ice-cream. All had a great time.

FIRST FRIDAY MASS - OUR LADY'S ACADEMY Friday, May 3rd 2019.

Crowning of the Blessed Mother's Statue following the First Friday Mass.

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY - APRIL 28, 2019

We celebrated the “Feast of Divine Mercy” beginning with Confessions from 1:00-2:00pm, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Act of Family Consecration to Divine Mercy Prayer, Catechesis on the Message of Mercy, Litany in Praise of the Divine Mercy, a Reflection on Divine Mercy, Litany of Reparation and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy at 3:00pm, followed by Benediction.

JESUS I TRUST IN YOU

HAM-A-RAMA FUNDRAISER - SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2019

Oh what a night! Almost 300 people joined us for a fun filled evening. Over 550 prizes were raffled off. Amazingly over 300 of those raffle prizes were donated to us. Such generosity among our community.

ANNUAL PARISH EASTER EGG "STAMPEDE" - APRIL 21, 2019

Three minutes, forty-five seconds, that is all it took for the children of Our Lady's Parish to collect 5,467 stuffed eggs on Easter morning after the 9:00am Mass. It was like watching a vacuum in action. It took weeks to stuff these eggs by our parish volunteers, and again just over three minutes for them all to be gone. What a sight!

HOLY THURSDAY, GOOD FRIDAY, EASTER VIGIL - April 18, 19, 20, 2019

Holy Thursday

GOOD FRIDAY

EASTER VIGIL

CONGRATULATIONS TO RCIA CANDIDATES WHO RECEIVED FIRST EUCHARIST AND CONFIRMATION AT THE EASTER VIGIL: JENNIFER BRAVERMAN, ABEMBOM AND BEMSIMBOM DIANGHA AND JAYE HUGHES

FILLING OF WATER BOTTLES FOR EASTER

On Monday, April 1 in Our Lady’s Academy Cafeteria, students from our Religious Educaiton Program along with parishioners filled, capped and labeled small bottles of water to be blessed and distributed at our Easter Services. Pizza was served and with so many helpers, we were able to fill just about 3,000 bottles to give out.

CONGRATULATINS TO OUR RCIA CANDIDATES

Congratulations to Andrea Larranaga, Timothy Oliveira and Christine Spinelli. They received their Sacrament of Confirmation on March 28 at St. Patrick's Church with Bishop Robert Reed.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK EUCHARISTIC ADORATION ON MONDAY, JANUARY 28

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK MASS, SUNDAY, JANUARY 27

Last Sunday, Our Lady’s Academy kicked of Catholic Schools week at the 9:00am Mass. Principal, Mrs. Minor spoke briefly after current student, Ava Palazzolo spoke about our school.

DINNER AT PADDY'S RESTAURANT IN WEST NEWTON - FRIDAY, JANUARY 25

High School and 8th Grade Altar Servers joined Fr. DiPerri and altar server coordinator, Paul Loscocco, at Paddy’s Restaurant in West Newton for dinner on Friday January 25 in gratitude for their faithful service. Grateful to O’Hara family, owners of Paddy’s for providing the meal.

RESPECT LIFE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION - JANUARY 22

Join Seminarian Joe Hubbard on Tuesday, January 22 beginning at 6:00pm in St. Joseph Chapel in the school. Please enter the building through the main entrance where the Holy Family statue is located. January 22, 2019 marks the 46th anniversary of the Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade. We invite you to come and pray for the unborn and for an end to abortion.

RESPECT FOR LIFE MARCH MASS - JANUARY 18

Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Seán O'Malley for Boston pilgrims at the Respect for Life March in Washington, DC on January 18. Pictured below is the delegation from Our Lady's Academy and their families. Let us continue to pray for the unborn and for an end to abortion.

OUR LADY'S ACADEMY INTERNATIONAL DAY - JANUARY 14

On Monday, January 14, our parish school, Our Lady's Academy, hosted an "Internation Day." The event was wonderfully organized by parishioner, Lou Alvarez, cominging the link between parish and school. The day celebrated the many cultures and ethnic backgrounds that give Our Lady's Academy its global atmosphere. During the morning, the students visited classrooms representing each country. They viewed videos and read articles about the history and culture of each particular country. Before lunch, the children prayed a decade of the rosary in ten different languages. Mr. Giles said a prayer and our pastor, Fr. DiPerri blessed everyone. Lunch was then served by parents and teachers. There was authentic food made by parents; fried rice was donated by Waltham's Sichuan Garden and some food was purchased at ethnic restaurants for all to sample. Lunch ended with good ole American apple pie and vanilla ice cream that was donated by Star Market on Lexington Street. In culmination of this day long event, the students engaged in a variety of ethnic dances led by Marcy Van Cleave, a professional folk dance instructor. It was a great day!

Altar Server Pizza and Ice Cream Dinner - January 11

The altar servers and their families joined Fr. DiPerri and altar server coordinator Paul Loscocco for a pizza and ice cream dinner at the rectory on January 11. What great kids! We are truly blessed to have such dedicated families in our parish.

ST. ANDREW'S DINNER 2018

Each year, the Vocation Office of the Archdiocese of Boston invites high school age young men for an evening of prayer, food, and conversation. This year Our Lady’s Parish was well represented by eight high school parishioners and their families. The event was held at Sacred Heart Parish in Watertown on Tuesday, November 27.

CHILDREN'S CHOIR PIZZA PARTY AT THE RECTORY

On Friday, November 30, Patrick Botti, Tom Fallon and the children's choir and their families had a pizza party at the rectory.

ADVENT FIELD TRIP

OUR LADY’S ACADEMY AND RELIGIOUS EDUCATION TRIP TO THE NORTH END

Our Lady’s Academy and Religious Education students in Grades 6, 7, & 8 will participate in an Advent Field Trip to the North End of Boston on Saturday, December 15. Led by Father DiPerri, who will share his immense knowledge of Boston history, we will visit the beautiful Seaport Shrine of Our Lady of Good Voyage, along with a couple of historic North End Catholic churches. Of course the group will stop for an authentic & delicious Italian lunch along the way! We will travel by bus, there is no cost, and parent chaperones are needed. Please contact Felicia Forger at 781-894-3481 or religiouseducation@olca.org to sign-up or for more information. It will be an interesting, fun, enjoyable afternoon with friends complete with magnificent Churches and pasta perfection.