Up-to-date info on coronavirus within the State of DE: de.gov/coronavirus

Up-to-date info on coronavirus within the State of DE: de.gov/coronavirus

News Updates from State of DE

• 9/17/21:  Mass for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online.  

• 9/16/21:  We will close the reservations for our 70th anniversary reception on Monday, Sept. 20th.  We are in need of adult & youth volunteers to help our at our 70th Anniversary event on 9/26.  To sign up visit our Event Volunteer Page.

• 9/8/21:  On Thursday, September 9th, after daily Mass we will open the Mass Intention book for 2022.  Mass Intentions can be set up online and in the parish office.  For more information visit our Mass Intention Page.

• 9/7/21:  Registration for the BULLDOG 5k is active now!  This run/walk event is taking place on Saturday, September 25th at 9:00 AM, beginning and ending at the school entrance.  Stick around post-race for ice cream, snacks and an award ceremony recognizing our race winners!  A virtual option has been added for supporters who want to run their race at another time!  Check out the Bulldog 5K Event Page

• 9/3/21:  Mass for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online.  Father Kirk is now back to his full normal schedule as celebrant at weekend Masses.

• 8/30/21:  We extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones & friends of Father Philip Sheekey. Father Sheekey was previously a priest in residence at St. Mary Magdalen.  More info in The Dialog article.

• 8/26/21:  Mass for the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online.  Father Kirk is now back to his full normal schedule as celebrant at weekend Masses.

• 8/25/21:  Fall Food Drive - Our Food Drive will run throught 9/19/21.  Help those in need in our community.  Due to COVID-19, SMM will again be collecting financial donations ONLY rather than non-perishable food items.  For more info visit our Fall Food Drive Donation Page. 

• 8/23/21: Join us for the 4th annual BULLDOG 5K, on Saturday, September 25th at 9am.  Our out and back 5k runs through Sharpley, beginning and ending at St. Mary Magdalen School.  More details about the event  & sponsorship:  Bulldog 5k Event Page & Sponsorship Opportunities Info.

• 8/18/21:  Father Kirk will be celebrant at the Sunday 8:30am Mass this weekend.  Then, next weekend he will be back to his full normal schedule.  Mass for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online.  The celebrant at the 4:30pm Saturday & 10:30am Sunday Masses this weekend will be Father Jackson. 

• 8/18/21:  Please keep Monsignor Joe Rebman, who is in Christiana Hospital, in your prayers.  Msgr. Rebman has had a tracheotomy placed and also requires supplemental oxygen. He has been diagnosed with ALS, (Lou Gehrig’s disease) by the neurologist. His mind is still sharp, but he can no longer speak because of the tracheotomy and has to write on paper to respond of which he eventually tires.  Christiana Hospital has completed all that they can do for him. His next step is probably acute rehabilitation.  Your prayers would be appreciated. 

• 8/13/21:  Mass for the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online. 

• 8/9/21: Bishop Koenig will be the main celebrant and homilist for our 70th Anniversary Mass on 9/26/21 at 10:30am.  RSVP for the reception following Mass if you haven't done so already and come celebrate with us!

• 8/5/21:  Mass for the 19th Sunday of Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday & 10:30am on Sunday, on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online. 

• 8/4/21:  Please share in our joy as Howard Eck & Justin Pollio are ordained to the Permanent Diaconate this Saturday, August 7th.  You are invited to watch the ordination live on the Diocese of Wilmington's YouTube channel at 11am on 8/7.  Two Masses of Thanksgiving will be offered here at SMM, both live streamed, with the opportunity to greet them after Mass:

1. Deacon Justin Pollio at 4:30pm on Saturday, August 7th.  
2. Deacon Howard Eck at 10:30am on Sunday, August 8th.  

• 8/3/21:  Dust off those photo albums!  We invite parishioners to submit pictures, the older the better, of St. Mary Magdalen Parish for the upcoming 70th Anniversary. More info about picture requests on our 70th Anniversary page.

• 7/30/21:  Mass for the 18th Sunday of Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online. 

• 7/26/21:  The Parish Office will be closed this week, 7/26 - 7/30, reopening 8/2.

• 7/22/21:  Mass for the 17th Sunday of Ordinary Time will not be be live streamed at SMM this weekend; instead we point you to the Cathedral live-stream on Sunday morning at 9:30am.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are available online. The Parish Office will be closed next week, 7/26 - 7/30, reopening 8/2.

• 7/22/21:  Message from Father Kirk on the Feast of St. Mary Magdalen:  Read the letter

• 7/20/21:  Howard Eck & Justin Pollio will be ordained to the Permanent Diaconate on Saturday, August 7th.  Please share in our joy & prayers for them!  (Attendance at this event is by invitation only).  Two Masses of Thanksgiving will be offered here at SMM, with the opportunity to greet them after Mass:

1. Deacon Justin Pollio will assist at his 1st Mass here at 4:30pm on Saturday, August 7th.  Father Norm Carroll will be the main celebrant, Deacon Pollio will preach.
2. Deacon Howard Eck will assist at his 1st Mass here at 10:30am on Sunday, August 8th.  Father James Jackson will be the main celebrant, Deacon Eck will preach.

• 7/11/21:  The Ordination and Installation of the Most Reverend William E. Koenig as the 10th Bishop of Wilmington by the Most Revered William E. Lori, Metropolitan Archbishop of Baltimore, will be live-streamed on Tuesday July 13th at 1:45PM on www.YouTube.com/DioceseofWilm and can be watched anytime after it airs.  You can also set your DVR for EWTN at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 15th. Ordination Worship Aid. 

• 7/8/21:  Mass for the 15th Sunday of Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are also available online.  

• 7/7/21:  Update from Father Kirk:  Dear Fellow Parishioners,  It has been three weeks since my valve replacement surgery, so I figured a little update is in order.  I am progressing very well.  I feel good in general although my overall energy level is still low.  I am obeying the doctor’s directives which basically means I’m doing nothing.  I am allowed to walk in timed intervals, so the rectory hallways have become my “track.”  I tire easy and nap a lot.  The pain of the incision is getting a bit better every day.  Sometime soon I will be starting cardio-rehab.Thank you for your well wishes and gifts and cards and especially your prayers.  Blessings on you all,  Father Kirk

• 6/30/21:  Mass for the 14th Sunday of Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The bulletin for this weekend is also available online.  There is no worship aid for this weekend, due to no music.    

• 6/28/21:  Parish Office closed for the Independence Day Holiday:  Monday, July 5th

• 6/24/21:  Bishop Malooly has lifted the dispensation reinstating the Sunday and Holy Day Mass obligation for Catholics in the Diocese of Wilmington, effective this weekend.  We will continue to live steam Mass for our homebound parishioners.  

• 6/22/21:  Update from Father Kirk:

• 6/17/21:  Mass for the 12th Sunday of Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Celebrant for this weekend:  4:30pm - Fr. James Jackson

• 6/16/21:  Post Surgery Update from Father Kirk:  Father Kirk has asked us to inform people that his surgery went very well and recovery is painful.  Upon discharge he will be recuperating in the rectory and will write more when he is able.  He is grateful for your continued prayers.

• 6/11/21:  Update from Father Kirk:

• 6/10/21:  Mass for the 11th Sunday of Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  

• 6/8/21:  Father Michael Preston will be saying the 4:30pm Mass this Saturday. Come and celebrate Father Preston's first Mass at SMM as a priest. He will be available to greet people and give blessings at the end of Mass.

• 6/7/21: Update from Father Kirk:  Dear Fellow Parishioners,  As you are aware I underwent a heart procedure on Friday, June 4th.  While the catheterization itself was uneventful, it DID indicate the somewhat urgent need for open heart surgery.  This is to correct blockages and to replace my aortic valve (for the 2nd time).  I’m not at all thrilled about this but it is the best of all options and I’ve been told by the surgeons that it needs to be very soon.  I will let you know exactly what “very soon” means as soon as I know myself.  I am in consultation with Bishop Malooly about how and who will cover the parish during recuperation which will be 8 - 10 weeks post-surgery.  Please continue to keep me in your prayers.  Father Kirk

• 6/3/21:  Mass for the Most Holy Body & Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  

• 6/2/21: Joyful News!  Bishop Malooly has lifted the dispensation reinstating the Sunday and Holy Day Mass obligation for Catholics in the Diocese of Wilmington, effective June 26, 2021.  The announcement was made today as part of a joint statement from the bishops of the Province of Baltimore and the Archdiocese of Washington.  Read the full statement.

• 6/2/21:  Upcoming school events at SMM that will be live streamed:

1. Kindergarten Closing Ceremony - 6/4 at 9:30am
2. 8th Grade Baccalaureate Mass - 6/4 at 1pm
3. 8th Grade Graduation - 6/8 at 7pm

• 6/1/21: Message from Father Kirk:  Dear Fellow Parishioners,  I was recently informed somewhat to my surprise that I need to undergo a heart procedure on Friday, June 4th in preparation for a heart valve replacement some time later in the summer.  As a precaution, I have scheduled a visiting priest and our Bishop to preside at the weekend Masses.  Fr. James Jackson a retired but very active priest of the diocese will say the 4:30 p.m. Mass on Saturday Evening and the 10:30 a.m. Mass on June 6th. Bishop Malooly will say the 8:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday, June 6th.  Thanks for your understanding and prayers.  Father Kirk 

• 5/27/21:  Mass for the Most Holy Trinity will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.   

• 5/24/21:  Updated COVID-19 Guidelines - In light of new CDC recommendations and executive orders from Governor Carney, Bishop Malooly has issues new COVID-19 Guidelines for all parishes in the Diocese of Wilmington.  View them on our updated COVID-19 Guidelines page.

• 5/20/21:  Mass for Pentecost Sunday will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Bishop Malooly will be the Celebrant at our10:30am Mass this Sunday 5/23/21.  Mass with Bishop Malooly will be live streamed in addition to our normal stream.  

• 5/17/21:  Gov. Carney & the Delaware DPH announced major changes to the COVID-19 restrictions effective 5/21/21.  We will reconfigured the church to close off every other pew, 3 feet of social distance.

• 5/13/21: Mass for the Ascension of the Lord will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  It is also First Communion weekend at SMM & May Crowning on Monday (not open to the public).  All will be live-streamed & available on YouTube to watch anytime after they air.

1. May 15th 1st Communion at 10:30am link
2. May 15th 1st Communion at 1pm link
3. May 16th 1st Communion at 12:30pm link
4. May 16th 1st Communion at 3pm link
5. May 17th  - May Crowning at 1:30pm link

• 5/13/21:  Worldwide Rosary to Pray for an End to the Pandemic - The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has been chosen by the Holy See to lead the worldwide recitation of the Rosary on Monday, May 17, at 12 noon ET/6pm Rome time, in response to Pope Francis’ call for a “marathon” of prayer during the month of May “to ask for the end of the pandemic.”  The recitation of the Rosary will be livestreamed at www.nationalshrine.org/mass and will be shared with the Holy See for transmission throughout the world.

• 5/12/21:  UPDATE - our phone issues have been resolved.  Yesterday our phone lines were down completely.  Today you are able to call in, but we are still unable to call out.  The Verizon issue has been reported & is being worked on; it is a large outage affecting our area.  Thank you in advance for your patience.

• 5/10/21:  Changes coming to COVID-19 Restrictions - On Tuesday May 4th Gov. Carney & the Delaware Division of Public Health announced major changes to the COVID-19 restrictions that will go into effect on May 21st.  New & revised COVID-19 restrictions will be forthcoming from the Diocese as well.  We are in the process of updating our current guidelines and once finalized, they will be emailed to parishioners and posted on our website and in the bulletin. 

• 5/5/21: Mass for the 6th Sunday of Easter will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.

• 5/1/21: Mass for the 5th Sunday of Easter will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.

• 4/30/21:  Msgr. William E. Koenig named 10th bishop of Wilmington in announcement from Pope Francis, read The Dialog article.  Bishop Malooly introduced Bishop-elect Koenig at a news conference today at the Cathedral of Saint Peter, and presided at a concelebrated Mass of Thanksgiving at 12:10 p.m. Both events were live-streamed on the Diocese of Wilmington's YouTube Channel.  Visit the diocesan website for more info:  https://www.cdow.org/newbishop

• 4/29/21:  Confessions will be held the 1st Saturday, 5/1/21, after 8:30am Daily Mass in a pew, socially distant, with masks.

• 4/28/21:  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for Susan Datilio on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 11:00 AM here at SMM Church. The Mass will follow Covid-19 protocols such as face masks, social distancing and the capacity limit of 150 people. We will live stream the service.   A private interment will follow the Mass. 

• 4/27/21:  Thank you to everyone who placed ordered the St. Joseph Statues.  Our order has been placed with our contact in the Holy Land and statues are due to come into SMM by June for you to pick up.  We will notify you by email when they come in.  The Holy Land has been devastated with no tourism and not visiting parishes to sell their goods, so we thank you again for supporting them.

• 4/22/21: Mass for the 4th Sunday of Easter will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.

• 4/22/21:  Only a few days left to order you St. Joseph statue.  Orders must be placed by Monday, April 26th. 

• 4/15/21: Mass for the 3rd Sunday of Easter will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.

• 4/12/21: St. Joseph Statues from the Holy Land for Sale.  In celebration of the dedication of this year as the Year of St. Joseph and in honor of Father's Day, we have teamed up with Christians of the Holy Land in presenting the opportunity to own a hand carved olive wood statue of St. Joseph.  Your statue will be blessed in the Holy Land with an official letter from Bethlehem.  Two sizes available:  11 inch St. Joseph at $120 per statue and 9 inch St. Joseph at $100 per statue.  Orders must be placed by April 26th and we expect them to come into SMM by June 2021 for you to pick up.  Visit our statue online order page for more information and online payment.  St. Joseph Statue flyer  

• 4/7/21: Mass for the 2nd Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday) will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  

• 4/4/21:  Jesus Christ has risen today!  Alleluia!  Wishing you a Happy Easter!

• 3/29/21:  HOLY WEEK 2021 - Join us this Holy Week for the Sacred Paschal Triduum: Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday (reservations not needed for the Triduum & no morning daily mass these 3 days).  All 3 days of the Triduum will be in person & live-streamed and available on our You Tube Channel after it airs.  Easter Sunday Masses at 8:30am & 10:30am require reservations and will not be live-streamed.  Links to the Worship Aid Booklet for the Triduum & Easter Sunday and the Easter bulletin are below:  

1. Holy Thursday 7pm live stream
2. Good Friday 3pm live stream
3. Easter Vigil 8pm live stream
4. Worship Aid Booklet for Triduum & Easter Sunday
5. Easter Bulletin 
6. Easter Letter from Bishop Malooly

• 3/29/21:  Thank you all so much for your generosity!  All 20 of our Easter Dinner donations have been filled for families in need within our neighboring community.

• 3/27/21:  We apologize for the technical difficulties with the 4:30pm Mass tonight and the inconvenience to those at home who depend on the stream for Mass.  We will restream Mass for Palm Sunday tomorrow morning at 8:30am.

• 3/25/21: Mass for Palm Sunday will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 3/28/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Palms will be available at the exits; those left will be available in the parish office M and TH 9am-3pm.

• 3/24/21:  EASTER SUNDAY RESERVATIONS - Reservations will be required for Easter Sunday 8:30am & 10:30am Masses this year.  Currently all slots are filled, but check back often.  If someone cancels their reservation, those seats will be made available again.  Also, if canceling reservations, please do so as far in advance as possible to allow others to sign up for your seats.  Don’t wait until the last minute to cancel.

• 3/22/21:  Confessions on Palm Sunday - Father Kirk will be available for Confessions after the 8:30am & 10:30am Masses on Palm Sunday; next to the baptismal font, socially distanced, mask required.  

 

• 3/22/21:  Help a family in need have an Easter Dinner.  A donation of $20 would cover the cost of 1 Easter Dinner and we want to provide 20 Easter dinners for families in need within our neighboring community.  You have the option to donate more if you wish.  To donate visit Easter Dinner Donations today.

• 3/19/21: Mass for the 5th Sunday of Lent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 3/21/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  

• 3/19/21:  EASTER SUNDAY RESERVATIONS - Reservations will be required for Easter Sunday 8:30am & 10:30am Masses this year.  The reservation button above will go live on Monday, March 22nd at 9am.  Those that not have access to a computer, the parish office will have the ability to take your reservation over the phone, pending availability.  

• 3/18/21:  Tomorrow is the Feast of St. Joseph.  Father Kirk will be holding daily Mass at 8:30am on Friday, March 19th for the Feast of St. Joseph.  Learn more about the Year of St. Joseph that the Pope declared in Dec. 2020 by reading this article from the Catholic News Agency.

• 3/16/21:  Easter Egg Hunt - Join us Easter Sunday, April 4th, on the rectory lawn after the 10:30am Mass.  2 categories for the hunt: ages 5 and under & ages 6-8.  Please bring your own basket or bag to collect eggs.  The Easter Bunny will be on hand for pictures, socially distant.  We will also have a "Best Dressed" competition so wear your Sunday best!  Registration required - Easter Egg Registration.  

• 3/16/21:  Volunteer Opportunities - We currently have a Youth Volunteer Opportunities SignUpGenius available for Palm Sunday & our Easter Egg Hunt.

• 3/12/21: Mass for the 4th Sunday of Lent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 3/14/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  

• 3/11/21:  Join us for in-person stations of the Cross Friday 3/12 at 6pm led by Deacon Candidate Howard Eck. The 3/12 Stations will also be live streamed; worship aid to go along with Station.  Stations will also be held 3/26 at 6PM led by Deacon Candidate Justin Pollio. 

• 3/8/21:  EASTER SUNDAY RESERVATIONS - Reservations will be required for Easter Sunday Masses this year & the links to register will be here on our website & go live on March 22nd.  Monday 3/22 you will be able to sign up online, or if someone does not have access to a computer, the parish office will have the ability to take your reservation beginning March 22nd, pending availability.  We will have 2 masses on Easter 4/4 at 8:30am & 10:30am.

• 3/5/21: Mass for the 3rd Sunday of Lent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 3/7/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  

• 3/4/21:  Father Kirk will be holding daily Mass at 8:30am on Friday, March 19th for the Feast of St. Joseph.  Learn more about the Year of St. Joseph that the Pope declared in Dec. 2020 by reading this article from the Catholic News Agency.

• 3/4/21:  Congrats Bishop-Elect Msgr. Jerome Feudjio.  On 3/2/21 Pope Francis named Monsignor Jerome Feudjio the new Bishop of Saint Thomas in the Virgin Islands; a friend to SMM & Father Kirk.  A note from Father Kirk, “I am so thrilled that Monsignor Jerome has been named the new bishop of Saint Thomas.  He is one of the finest most humble prayerful priests I know.  His people are blessed to have him.  If I can arrange my schedule, I will be attending his consecration in his Cathedral church on April 17th.  Please keep Bishop Jerome in your prayers.”  The diocese of St. Thomas is a very poor diocese.  We would like to purchase Msgr. Jerome’s Episcopal Cassock vestment for him as a gift from our parish.  If you would like to donate to this cause, please send in your donations in an envelope indicating it is for Bishop Jerome’s vestments.

• 3/3/21:  Stations of the Cross In-Person:  Father Kirk will lead an in-person Stations of the Cross at 9AM on 1st Friday March 5th.  We will also hold stations at night: 3/12 at 6PM led by Deacon Candidate Howard Eck & 3/26 at 6PM led by Deacon Candidate Justin Pollio.  All will be live streamed & available to view after.

• 3/1/21:  Father Kirk will be providing written Lenten Daily Reflections everyday throughout Lent on our website & facebook page.  This does not mean he is having mass every day.  Our mass schedule remains the same.

• 2/25/21: Mass for the 2nd Sunday of Lent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 2/28/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Pretzels will be given out after all mass as a Lenten snack, read our Lenten pretzel overview.  

• 2/22/21:  Stations of the Cross:  Father Kirk will lead an in-person Stations of the Cross at 9AM after 8:30AM mass on First Friday March 6th.  This will be live streamed and available on our YouTube channel after it airs. 

• 2/19/21: Mass for the 1st Sunday of Lent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 2/21/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  View the Lent 2021 Information on this page for activities we currently have available.

• 2/19/21:  Youth Volunteer Opportunity - We are in need of young people to assist with the distribution of Lenten Pretzels on Feb. 27 & 28 after all of the masses.   Youth Volunteer SignUpGenius.

• 2/17/21:  Father Kirk will be doing Lenten Daily Reflections throughout Lent.  They will be available on our website & facebook.  He will list the readings and his reflection for that day; a great daily addition to your Lenten activities!   

• 2/17/21:  Due to the impending weather, the parish office will be closed Thursday, Feburary 18th. 

• 2/14/21:  Key Chain Sunday - If any of our new drivers would like a keychain, contact Melissa Pollio with your name & address and she will mail them one.

• 2/11/21: Mass for the 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 2/14/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Notices for this weekend:

1. Key Chain Sunday at SMM 2/13 & 2/14:  We will be blessing teens & giving out key chains to those that have received their license in the past year at the Vigil & Sunday Masses.
2. CRS Rice Bowls:  Join our faith community & Catholic communities across the U.S. in a life-changing Lenten journey with CRS Rice Bowl.  Pick up your family’s CRS Rice Bowl as you enter & exit the church; rice bowl introduction letter.   

• 2/10/21:  Holy Light Catholic Prayer Candles for sale:  As part of Candlemas, we blessed some Holy Light Catholic Prayer Candles that are 100% beeswax with Chrism essence.  Every Catholic we know just loves to get a whiff of a newly baptized baby. Why? Because they smell so, so good!! That's the distinct smell of Chrism.  We have a limited amount of 4oz. candles which burn approximately 25-30 hours and are selling them for $20 each. If you would like one, please contact the parish office or email Stephanie Casey and we will set one aside for you. 

• 2/8/21: Hallow Plus Catholic Prayer & Meditation App:  We are happy to announce parishioners can create their free Hallow Plus account to use this Lenten Season at https://hallow.com/smmwilmington.  View the step-by-step guide instructions on how to create your free Hallow Plus account.

• 2/7/21:  Ash Wednesday 2021:  Reservation links will go live on Monday, 2/8/21 for our 3 Ash Wednesday services:  8:30am daily Mass, 12:30pm & 6pm prayer service.  Half of our seating will be done by reservations and the other half by first come first serve that day.

• 2/5/21:  Mass for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 2/7/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Notices for this weekend:

1. Adoration & Confession: this Saturday after daily Mass, beginning at 9AM.
2. Candlemas:  This weekend is Candlemas at SMM Parish which celebrates the Presentation of Jesus in the temple.  This is traditionally when all the candles are blessed that will be used on the altar & in the sanctuary for the year.  We will be blessing them here & also giving out blessed candles and crepes, a traditional Candlemas food, to take home after each mass this weekend.  More info on Candlemas provided by Father Kirk.
3. Ash Wednesday: This weekend's bulletin includes information from Father Kirk about Ash Wednesday 2021, specifically ash distribution times (8:30AM Mass, 12:30pm & 6PM Prayer Service), seating by both reservations and first come first serve and how ashes will be distributed.

• 2/1/21:  Please keep the Ifkovits family in your prayers.  Our heartfelt condolences goes out to the Ifkovits family for the loss of Stella Ifkovits yesterday, David's mother and Ryan's grandmother.       

• 2/1/21:  Share your Catholic School pics & office closed Tuesday - In honor of Catholic Schools Week, share your Catholic School throwback pictures on our facebook account.  Our parish office will be closed Tuesday, 2/2/21 as well.

• 1/31/21:  Office Closed - We will be closing the parish office Monday, 2/1/21 in anticipation of the accumulating snow. 

• 1/31/21:  Information about several upcoming events:  

1. Feast of St. Blaise:  Wednesday, Feb. 3rd, is the Feast of St. Blaise, the patron saint of throat illnesses.  The Catholic rite of Blessings of Throats will take place at the 8:30AM daily Mass.  This will be a general blessing at Mass, not individual throats being blessed.  Father will do the general throat blessing at the Vigil & Sunday Masses on Feb. 6th & 7th as well.
2. Candlemas at SMM 2/6 & 2/7:  Candlemas celebrates the Presentation of Jesus in the temple.  This is traditionally when all the candles are blessed that will be used on the altar & in the sanctuary for the year.  We will be blessing them here on Feb. 6th & 7th.  We will also be giving out blessed candles and crepes, a traditional Candlemas food, to take home after each mass that weekend.  More info on Candlemas provided by Father Kirk.
3. Key Chain Sunday at SMM 2/13 & 2/14:  We will be blessing teens & giving out key chains to those that have received their license in the past year at the Vigil & Sunday Masses.  

• 1/28/21:  Mass for the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday as well as at 10:30AM Sunday for our Catholic Schools Week Mass and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 1/31/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  This weekend's bulletin includes our initial response from our Parish Update Survey data and additional information about Candlemas provided by Father Kirk.

• 1/28/21:  We still have reservations open for our Catholic Schools Week Mass this Sunday 1/31 at 10:30AM.  Then join us for coffee, hot chocolate and donuts on the rectory lawn after Mass.

• 1/24/21: Please keep Bishop Malooly in your prayers as he awaits cardiac bypass surgery this coming Thursday.  More information in The Dialog.

• 1/22/21:  Mass for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 1/24/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 1/20/21: Information on several upcoming events:

1. Catholic Schools Week Mass:  We will celebrate CSW at SMM on Sunday 1/31/21 at our 10:30AM Mass.  Reservations are required; sign up today.  Members of our school community will assist during Mass a greeters, altar servers, lectors, ushers and Eucharistic Ministers.  We will have coffee, hot chocolate and donuts on the rectory lawn after Mass.
2. Feast of St. Blaise:  Wednesday, Feb. 3rd, is the Feast of St. Blaise, the patron saint of throat illnesses.  The Catholic rite of Blessings of Throats will take place at the 8:30AM daily Mass.  This will be a general blessing at Mass, not individual throats being blessed.  Father will do the general throat blessing at the Vigil & Sunday Masses on Feb. 6th & 7th as well.
3. Candlemas:  Candlemas celebrates the Presentation of Jesus in the temple.  This is traditionally when all the candles are blessed that will be used on the altar & in the sanctuary for the year.  While it is customary to bless the candles on Feb. 2nd, marking 40 days after Crhistmas, we will be blessing them here on Feb. 6th & 7th.  We will also be giving out blessed candles and crepes, a traditional Candlemas food, to take home after each mass that weekend.
4. Key Chain Sunday:  We will be blessing teens & giving out key chains to those that have received their license in the past year at the Vigil & Sunday Masses the weekend of Feb. 13th & 14th.  

• 1/19/21:  Phone Issues - We had technical difficulties with our phones this past weekend.  We apologize if you called and were unable to leave a message.  This issue has since been resolved.  

• 1/16/21:  Celebrate Catholic Schools Week with us on Sunday 1/31/21 at our 10:30AM Mass.  Reservations will be required for only this Mass to ensure that state guidelines for occupancy are followed (the reservation link will go live 1/19/21).  School students, parents & teachers will assist during Mass as Greeters, Altar Servers, Lectors, Ushers & Eucharistic Ministers.  We will also have coffee, hot chocolate & donuts on the rectory lawn after Mass.

• 1/14/21:  Tax Letters - 2020 tax donation letters were emailed today to those parishioners that have requested for annual statements to be automatically sent.  If you would like a 2020 tax donation letter please email Stephanie Casey or call the parish office 652-6800 ext. 145.  At that time you can also request for them to be sent annually if we have an email address on file.

• 1/12/21:  We have several upcoming events starting the weekend of Jan. 31st:  Catholic Schools Week, Candlemas, Feast of St. Blaise / Blessing of Throats, and Key Chain Sunday.  Be on the look out for more detailed information via our website, bulletin and social media over the next few weeks. 

• 1/10/20:  Blessing Kits - Our Blessing Kits were such a hit we ran out. If you were unable to pick up one in Mass this weekend, we will have kits available in the parish office for those that want one. Our office hours are Monday & Thursday 9am-3pm.  Each kit will include a piece of blessed chalk and a home blessing so you will be able to chalk your door & bless your home. There will also be blessed hay from our Christmas creche.

• 1/8/21:  Mass for the Baptism of the Lord will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 1/10/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 1/7/21:  Please take a moment to read the statement from Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in response to yesterday’s violence in the United States Capitol.

• 1/15/21:  Mass for the 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 1/17/21 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 1/5/21:  The Parish Update Survey will close on Monday, January 11th at the end of business day.  If your family has yet to fill it out, please do so within the next few days.  

• 1/4/21:  Blessing kits will be given out at Mass this weekend.  Each kit will include a piece of blessed chalk and a home blessing so you will be able to chalk your door & bless your home. There will also be blessed hay from our Christmas creche. If unable to make it to Mass, we will make the kits available in the parish office next week.

• 1/4/21:  Tax Letters - Due to the Christmas holiday & the office being closed, we are still processing offertory from December. Once completed, the 2020 tax donation letters will be sent via email on Jan. 15th to those parishioners that have requested for annual statements to be sent each year. After Jan. 15th, if you would like a 2020 tax donation letter please email Stephanie Casey or call the parish office. You may also request to have tax donation letters automatically emailed each year.

• 12/31/20:  Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, will be held Friday Jan. 1st at 8:30am.  Reminder, we will have Adoration & Confession on the 1st Saturday, Jan. 2nd, after 8:30am daily mass. Come spend some quiet time with Our Lord.  Confessions will be in a pew socially distanced with a mask from 9-9:45AM.

• 12/26/20:  Mass for the Feast of the Holy Family will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 12/27/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 12/25/20:  Merry Christmas from St. Mary Magdalen Parish.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord - Luke 2:11.  View pictures of St. Mary Magdalen Parish this Christmas.

• 12/22/20:  Christmas Eve 4PM Mass & Christmas Eve 8PM Mass will be live streamed and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The 8PM live stream will go live at 7:45PM to highlight the pre-mass Schola program.  The 4PM, 6PM & 10:30AM worship aid, the 8PM worship aid & the Christmas bulletin are also available online.  View the Diocesan Christmas live-stream list & a Christmas message from Bishop Malooly. 

• 12/21/20: Christmas Eve & Day Updates -  It is important to understand that reservations are required for all Christmas Eve & Day Masses.  Registrations are full, so if you do not have a reservation, please do not come to Mass. 
  • For those without reservation, we will live stream the 4PM & 8PM Mass. 
  • For those with reservations, please be aware:
  • Doors will open 1 hour before Mass.
  • Ushers will check you off the roster prior to letting you go to your seats.
  • There will be no assigned seating, but we ask that larger pews are used for larger parties (5+).  Smaller groups should sit in smaller pews.
  • At this point we are unable to adjust reservations to add more people.  You will only be able to bring in the number you initially gave us. 
  • The 8PM is the full traditional “midnight” Mass.
  • There will be a pre-mass program offered by the St. Mary Magdalen Schola beginning at 7:45 pm on Christmas Eve.  This smaller choir will be wearing the appropriate singing masks.  
  • Blessed hay from the creche will be in baskets at both exits for you to take.
  • If you would like to take pictures, we ask that you exit church after communion and come back in through the front doors for pictures.
  • We appreciate you following our normal COVID guidelines for the safety of all in attendance and wish you a Merry Christmas.

• 12/17/20:  Mass for the 4th Sunday of Advent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 12/20/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Use our Prayer at the Advent Wreath when lighting your advent candle(s) each week.  

• 12/15/20: Pictures from our Bambinelli Blessing & the Angel Tree Gifts

• 12/14/20:  Christmas Reservation Update:  Reservations links for all Christmas Eve & Day Masses are closed, registrations are full.  No more Masses will be added.  Please take a moment to listen to this message from Bishop Malooly about Christmas.  To be placed on the waitlist, email your specific Mass request (Eve: 4pm, 6pm, 8pm, or Day: 10:30am) to Stephanie Casey. 

• 12/14/20:  Thank you to everyone that donated angel gifts and/or angel gift cards to help give Christmas to 25 families at Saint Paul’s Outreach Center. Gifts were dropped off this morning for families to begin picking up. 

• 12/13/20:  Angel tree gifts were due today at the 10:30 AM mass. Those who still have yet to turn in their gift have 1 last opportunity to turn them in, today from 3 to 4 PM in church while the gifts are sorted by families. Any gifts not submitted today, the responsibility will be put on the gift giver to deliver them to Saint Paul’s Outreach Center.

• 12/10/20:  Mass for the 3rd Sunday of Advent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 12/13/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Use our Prayer at the Advent Wreath when lighting your advent candle(s) each week.  

• 12/10/20:  Reminders for this weekend

1. Angel Tree gifts - due  this Sunday by 10:30am Mass, delivered Monday.
2. Angel Tree gift sorting - we still need help sorting gifts Sunday from 3-4:30pm.  Sign up if you can help.
3. Bambinelli Blessing - Join us after 10:30AM Mass this Sunday for a Bambinelli Blessing on the rectory lawn; please register for this event.  Following the blessing, we will offer self serve photos with Santa and Grab & Go munchkins, hot cocoa & coffee.  We will also have a sock drive for the homeless.
4. Messge from Bishop Malooly - Please take a moment to listen to this message from Bishop Malooly about Christmas.

• 12/9/20:  This year, SMM has our very own "traveling St Nicholas statue" that will travel throughout our community spreading a little joy. "Traveling Nicholas" made his appearance at someone's home this past weekend and will travel from family to family until December 24/25.  Pictures of his adventure on our Facebook page. 

• 12/9/20:  Christmas Reservation Update:  Reservations links for all Christmas Eve & Day Masses are closed, registrations are full.  No more Masses will be added.  To be placed on the waitlist for Christmas Eve or Day Masses email your specific Mass request (4pm, 6pm, 8pm, or 10:30am) to Stephanie Casey. 

• 12/8/20:  Reminder that Angel Gifts are due by this Sunday, wrapped with the Angel Gift tag attached. Gifts can be dropped off at the Parish Office this Thursday 12/10 from 9am-3pm, if you are unable to drop off this weekend. Gift drop off to St. Paul's Outreach Center is Monday morning, so be sure to drop off your gift on time.

• 12/7/20 - Several Updates for today:

1. Christmas Reservations: Christmas reservation links went live today:  4PM & 6PM Masses are filled, spots are still available for 8PM & 10:30am.  
2. Changes to Bambinelli:  We had originally scheduled a Bambinelli Fest, but with the new COVID guidelines, felt it safest to just do the blessing with activities that can be done in a grab & go fashion.  Money from those that previously registered has been refunded.  Join us after 10:30AM Mass 12/13 for a Bambinelli Blessing on the rectory lawn; you must register for this event.  Following the blessing, we will offer self serve photos with Santa and Grab & Go munchkins, hot cocoa & coffee.  We will also have a sock drive for the homeless.
3. Angel Gift Card donation slots have all been filled.  Thank you!
4. Angel Gifts Due & Gift Sorting Help:  Angel Gifts are due back to the main vestibule by 12/13, wrapped, with the angel used as the gift tag.  Next Sunday afternoon we will be sorting and prepping the gifts for delivery. If there are any students who need hours or adults who just want to volunteer we will need some help to make it light work.  Sign up today.
5. Help us decorate the trees out infront of church on 12/9 from 3-4pm.  We are in need of 4 families, 1 family per tree, to decorate.  All items will be proivded.  Sign up today.

• 12/6/20:  Christmas Eve & Day reservation links go live tomorrow, 12/7 at 9am.

• 12/6/20:  Thank you all so much for your generosity!  The remainder of our Angel Gift Tags have been claimed as of the last mass this weekend, as well as all our Christmas dinner donations for inner-city families!  Please return wrapped gifts (with the angel as the gift tag) next weekend 12/13 to the main vestibule. If looking for other ways to bless others this Christmas we still have Angel gift card donations for St. Paul's families available.   

• 12/4/20:  We have over 70 Angel Gift Tags that still need to be claimed in the main vestibule at church, as well as online Angel Gift Card Donations which provide Christmas presents to 25 families in need at St. Paul's Outreach Center.  Gift are due to main vestibule on Dec. 13th.

• 12/4/20: Mass for the 2nd Sunday of Advent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 12/6/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Use our Prayer at the Advent Wreath when lighting your advent candle(s) each week.  

• 12/3/20: Help a needy family have a Christmas Dinner, info & to donate online.

• 11/30/20:  We have 2 new updates to our COVID guidelines.  First, we have imposed a mask policy for Lectors:  any reading from the ambo will now require masks.  Second, we submitted a plan to the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) on Nov. 22nd seeking permission for 150 people at Mass (due to Gov. Carney’s updated guidelines limiting houses of worship to 30% of capacity, up to 100 people, effective Nov. 23rd).  Our plan to have 150 people in Mass was approved by the DPH, with the following modifications to our guidelines:  we must implement the wearing of gloves when distributing communion.  These changes will go into effect on 12/5/20.  Eucharistic ministers will now have gloves made available to them that they must put on after they themselves receive communion & then sanitize.  

• 11/30/20:  Bring your Bambinelli (Jesus from your Manger) to the 10:30am Mass 12/13 for a special blessing that mirrors the one Pope Francis does in Rome. We will also host a BambinelliFest after mass on the rectory lawn. You must pre-register for this event so we can ensure a safe # of participants. Also, calling all artists and artisans, we will have 6 bazaar tables spots available. Apply today! 

• 11/27/20: Mass for the 1st Sunday of Advent will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 11/29/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  Use our Prayer at the Advent Wreath when lighting your advent candle(s) each week.  3 big events this weekend: 

1. Christingle kits (candle, orange, gum drops, etc.) will be given to children at all masses this weekend.  Learn how to put yours together by watching our Christingle Tutorial video.  
2. Angel Gift Tags will be available online and in the main vestibule starting this weekend.
3. Advent Grab and Go bags ordered in advance will be available for pick up on the rectory lawn on Sunday from 9-11am.  We will have a few extra available to purchase day of.  Watch our Advent Wreath Tutorial video.

• 11/23/20:  Thanksgiving Day Mass will be live streamed at 10am, Nov. 23rd; Thanksgiving Day Mass worship aid. 

• 11/23/20: Thank you to everyone that donated turkey vouchers and or Thanksgiving Baskets to the families at St. Paul’s Community Center. They were delivered this morning for families to start picking up today for their thanksgiving dinner.  Reminder to those that rregistered for Thanksgiving Day Mass, it will be held 11/26 at 10am.

• 11/21/20:  Friday, Governor Carney issued a 3rd revision to Omnibus COVID-19 emergency order:  Houses of worship are limited to 30% of capacity, up to 100 people, effective Nov. 23rd.  We will be submitting a plan to the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) seeking permission for additional capacity.  This plan will need approval from DPH first to have more than 100 people in church.  

• 11/19/20: We will be pushing the opening of Christmas Reservations from Nov. 30th to Dec. 7th due to the new restrictions.  Thank you for your patience as we work through implementing these guideline changes.

• 11/17/20:  Governor Carney announced additional COVID-19 restrictions today that services in houses of worship will be allowed a max of 50 people effective Monday, 11/23/20.  Parish Staff are meeting tomorrow morning to discuss how these additional COVID-19 restrictions will affect upcoming masses, Thanksgiving & Christmas Masses.  Please be patient as we work through these guidelines.  More info to come.

• 11/16/20:  All of our Thanksgiving Baskets & Turkey Vouchers have been claimed!  Thank you so much for your generosity.  All Thanksgiving baskets are due back to the parish office by this Friday, Nov. 20th. 

• 11/16/20:  All of our Thanksgiving Baskets & Turkey Vouchers have been claimed!  Thank you so much for your generosity.  All Thanksgiving baskets are due back to the parish office by this Friday, Nov. 20th. 

• 11/12/20:  Mass for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 11/15/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 11/12/20:  We have 3 Thanksgiving food baskets left to be claimed.  This is a great way to give back.  Our food basket program benefits St. Paul's Community Center.  If interested, register for a basket today.   

• 11/10/20:  If you are in need of service hours or would like to volunteer at the parish we now have a SignUp Genius for our Youth Volunteer Opportunities.  As more opportunities become available the list will be updated as well.  Check it often!

• 11/6/20:  Mass for the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 11/8/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online

• 11/6/20:  Reminder we will have Adoration & Confession every 1st Saturday beginning this Saturday Nov. 7th after 8:30am daily mass.  Confession from 9-9:45am and Adoration until 10:30am.  Come spend some quiet time with Our Lord.

• 11/3/20:  By now you should have received the letter from Father Kirk in the mail about our Parish Update Survey. Please help us gather updated parishioner contact information by filling out the parish survey today! Preferably online.

• 10/30/20:  This Sunday 11/1 we will hold our annual Memorial Vespers (live streamed); an afternoon prayer service in remembrance of those parishioners listed in our Book of the Dead from Oct. 2019 - Sept. 2020.  We have also added an All Souls Day Mass on Monday 11/2 at 8:30am for all the deceased members of our parish.  Come join us as we remember those we have lost.

• 10/30/20:  Mass for the Solemnity of All Saints will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 11/1/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 10/29/20: Our Trunk or Treat will be held this Saturday 10/31 from 1-3PM.  Additional information and a map of the parking lot can be found on our Trunk or Treat Flyer.  Reminder, ONLY those who registered in advance are able to attend this event, as we were limited to the number of people per the state guidelines.

• 10/27/20: We will be doing our Thanksgiving Basket Program which benefits St. Paul's Community Center and our Turkey Vouchers again this year.  We will also offer an Advent Wreath Grab & Go kit to purchase, as well sets of Advent Candles only if you need them for your home.  For more information visit the sign up links. 

• 10/25/20:  NEW MASS ADDITION - On All Souls Day Monday, Nov. 2nd we will hold a special daily mass at 8:30am for all of the deceased members of the parish.

• 10/23/20:  Mass for the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 10/25/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 10/21/20:  Gospel of John Class on Nov. 8th 3-5pm via Zoom.  This adult faith formation class will be taught by SMM School Principal Patrick Tiernan.  To find out more about this class and how to register visit our Adult Formation Page.

• 10/14/20:  Confirmation 2020 - We are excited to have 70 students receiving the sacrament of Confirmation this weekend.  Please keep these students in your intentions and continue to support them on their faith journey.  All Confirmations will be lived streamed.  Links to live streams:  Oct. 17th at 10am, Oct. 17th at 12pm, Oct. 17th 2pm, Oct. 18th at 12pm, & Oct. 18th at 2pm.

• 10/14/20:  Mass for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 10/18/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 10/8/20:  Mass for the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed at 4:30pm on Saturday and available on our YouTube Channel after it streams.  The worship aid & 10/11/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online.  The parish office will be closed Monday 10/12/20 for Columbus Day.

• 10/7/20:  Please take a moment to read the Letter from Father Kirk that updates you on several matters.  This letter is being emailed to parishioners this morning, posted on our Facebook page and will be included in this weekend's bulletin.

• 10/5/20:  Adoration & Confession: 1st Saturday of each month starting in November.  All are welcome to join us on Saturday November 7th after 8:30am daily mass for Adoration and confession.  Confessions will take place from 9 - 9:45am in a pew socially distanced with masks.  Adoration will go until 10:30am. 

• 10/2/20:  Trunk or Treat, Saturday Oct. 31st from 1-3pm.  SMM will be holding a socially responsible Trunk or Treat on Oct. 31st from 1-3pm in our parking lot. You must pre-register for this event so we can ensure a safe number of participants. We will be limiting registration to 50 cars (max 6 participants per car). The cost is $5; pay online when registering. More information & guidelines on the registration.

• 10/2/20:  Mass for the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be available at 4:30pm & on our YouTube Channel.  The worship aid & 10/4/20 bulletin for this weekend are also available online. 

• 10/1/20:  Thanksgiving Day Mass, Thursday Nov. 26th at 10am.  Sign up required this year.  We will holld Mass onThanksgiving morning at 10am and are asking you to sign up this year & let us know how many people are coming and if you would like a loaf of blessed bread for your Thanksgiving table.  Register today!

• 9/24/20:  New procedure for receiving communion & communion distribution: Communion will continue to be at the end of mass. We ask that you remain in your seat until an usher dismisses your pew for communion. Those sitting in the larger center pews, proceed to communion as usual up the center aisle once dismissed. NEW PROCEDURE for those in outlining pews: After distributing communion to the center aisle, the Eucharistic Ministers will move to the outlining areas for distribution. Once dismissed by an usher, you will GO UP YOUR AISLE to receive communion, then depart. The arrows on the floor have been updated to reflect this change. If receiving on the tongue you must go to the end of the communion line.  (Our communion procedures have been changing and we apologize if this has caused confusion. Based on the most up to date information, we are doing our best to make decisions that reflect the safest procedures. To ensure we are well ventilated, the top windows will remain open and our newest communion procedure listed below helps to lower the flow of movement between people. Reminder, the cry room / training room remains unavailable due to the lack of ventilation. Please do not sit or stand in this area.)

• 9/18/20:  Mass for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live-streamed at 4:30pm on our YouTube Channel & available to view after.  The worship aid for this weekend & 9/20/20 bulletin are also available online.

• 9/11/20:  Mass for the 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live-streamed at 4:30pm on our YouTube Channel & available to view after.  The worship aid for this weekend & 9/13/20 bulletin is available online.

• 9/10/20:  We will be live-streaming the Opening SMM School Mass at 10AM this Friday 9/11 for our A week students & Monday 9/14 for our B week students.

• 9/9/10:  Please read the "Call to Informed Participation in the Political Process" from Bishop Malooly which also includes the Litany of St. Thomas More.

• 9/4/20:  Mass for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live-streamed at 4:30pm on our YouTube Channel & availabe to view after.  The worship aid for this weekend & 9/6/20 bulletin is available online.

• 9/1/20:  Our SMM School students start back to school today & tomorrow with a hybrid program. Please keep our students & all those heading back to school in your prayers as they begin this new school year. Please also pray for teachers, staff, and all those educating & helping students throughout the day.

• 9/1/20:  The Parish Office will open to the public starting Thursday, September 10th with office hours of Monday & Thursday 9AM - 3PM.  A mask is required when entering the parish office.   We will also be opening the 2021 Mass Intention book on September 10th after daily mass.  Limit 5 intentions per person.   

• 8/30/20:  Mass for the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time is available on our YouTube Channel.  The worship aid for this weekend & 8/30/20 bulletin is available online, printed bulletin in church as well. We apologize for the partial stream of mass that was posted Saturday as we encountered technical difficulties.   

• 8/22/20:  Mass for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time will be available on our YouTube Channel at 4:30pm.  The worship aid for this weekend & 8/23/20 bulletin is available online, printed bulletin in church as well.   

• 8/19/20:  Please see the updated message below from Father Kirk in regards to CYM Fall sports:  "After further consideration and consultation and after a close examination of the CDOW CYM Fall Sports Safety Rules & Procedures, I hav decided to allow SMM to participate in the CYM Fall Sports Program. - Father Kirk"  CYM Fall sports will begin on August 31st.  ONly outdoor sports will be offered.  Volleyball will be moved to the Spring, and Softball will be offered in teh Fall, along with Soccer and Cross Country. 

• 8/17/20: The parish office will be open to the public starting September 10th with office hours of Monday & Thursday 9AM-3PM.  A mask is required upon entering the office.  We will also be opening the 2021 Mass Intention book on September 10th, more info to come in this weekend's bulletin.

• 8/13/20:  Mass for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live-streamed at 4:30pm on our YouTube Channel & availabe to view after.  The 8/16/20 bulletin for is available online, printed bulletin in church as well.  There will be no music this weekend, no worship aid.

• 8/9/20:  Congratulations to Howard Eck & Justin Pollio, our candidates for permanent diaconate, as they were installed in the ministry of acolyte yesterday!  See pictures of both of them in the article from the Dialog.

• 8/6/20:  Mass for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live-streamed on our YouTube Channel Saturday at 4:30m.  The 8/9/20 bulletin and worship aid for this weekend are available online; printed bulletin in church as well.

• 7/30/20:  Phase 2 beigns this Saturday, August 1st, with more mass offerings.  Mass for the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be live streamed on our YouTube Channel Saturday at 4:30pm.  The 8/2/20 bulletin & worship aid for this weekend are available online; printed bulletins in church as well.

• 7/24/20:  Mass for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be available on our YouTube Channel Saturday at 5pm.  The 7/26/20 bulletin and worship aid for this weekend are available online only at this time.

• 7/21/20:  July 22nd, is the Feast Day of St. Mary Magdalen.  In 2016, recognizing St. Mary Magdalen’s role as the first to witness Christ's resurrection and as a "true and authentic evangelizer," Pope Francis raised the July 22 memorial of St. Mary Magdalen to a feast on the church's liturgical calendar.  We pray to her: St. Mary Magdalen, who by conversion became the beloved of Jesus, thank you for your witness that Jesus forgives through the miracle of love. You, who already possesses eternal happiness in His glorious presence, please intercede for me, so that someday I may share in the same everlasting joy. Amen.

• 7/14/20:  Phase 2 beginning Saturday, August 1st.  After consulting with several groups & individuals, SMM Parish will begin Phase 2 on Saturday August 1st which will include the addition of more daily masses as well as more weekend masses (including time changes).  Note the time change from 10am to 10:30am on Sunday.
•  

  Phase 2	Starting Saturday August 1st
  Daily Mass	8:30am Tuesday  8:30am Wednesday  8:30am Thursday  8:30am 1st Friday  8:30am Saturday
  Weekend Mass	4:30pm Saturday  8:30am Sunday  10:30am Sunday

       
• 7/3/20:  Please note the new configuration when coming to church. The caution tape has been taken down, and there are now signs on pews indicating which ones are closed for social distancing. If you see a pew with a sign that says “pew closed” please do not sit there. You may sit on either side of the pews that are open. There is blue tape in the middle of open pews indicating what 6 feet of social distancing looks like.  Your family can cross the blue tape line as long as the next person(s) outside of your family are 6 feet apart.  (Example, a family of three people can sit on the right side of the pew and a couple could sit on the left side of the pew as long as you ensure there are 6 feet between the two parties.)  Ushers on hand to assist.  

• 7/17/20:  Mass for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be available on our YouTube Channel Saturday at 5pm.  The 7/19/20 bulletin and worship aid for this weekend is available online only at this time.

• 7/10/20:  Mass for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time will be available on our YouTube Channel Saturday at 5pm.  The 7/12/20 bulletin and worship aid for this weekend is available online.

• 7/7/20:  Updated Mass times starting July 14th.  Beginning next Tuesday, we will be having daily mass on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and moving the time of those masses back to 8:30AM.  Our weekend mass will continue to be 10AM Sunday. 

• 7/4/20:  Mass for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time is now avaiable online, along with the worship aid & this weekend's bulletin.

• 6/27/20:  First Communions will be live streamed on our YouTube Channel today at 10am, 1pm and 4pm; Sunday at 1pm & 4pm.  Mass for the 13th Sunday in ordinary time will be available at 5pm & the 6/28/20 bulletin is now available online.  Photos from our First Holy Communions are also available online.

• 6/26/20:  First Communions - Anyone wanting to tune into our live stream of our First Holy Communions this weekend, our first one is today at 4PM.  Please click on our YouTube Channel at the time of the mass to see.

• 6/19/20:  Mass for the 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time is now available online and Mass will be held at SMM on Sunday at 10AM.  The 6/21/20 bulletin is available online.  Also, the Diocese of Wilmington salutes Christ's earthly guardian and a model for all fathers, with a video of images of Saint Joseph from the churches of the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington. Saint Joseph, pray for us.  Happy Fathers' Day!

• 6/16/20:  Bishop Malooly has joined the other bishops who serve Maryland in a joint statement on racial justice titled, "Building Bridges of Understanding and Hope."  It was published on June 15, 2020 by the Maryland Catholic Conference. You can read it here https://www.mdcatholic.org/racial_justice_letter

• 6/15/20:  Please read the Letter from Father Kirk 6/14/20 addressing SMM Parish, parish offertory and finances, & racism in America.

• 6/13/20: Mass for the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, Corpus Christi will be available today at 5PM, with reflection given by diaconate candidate Justin Pollio.  The 6/14/20 bulletin is available online.

• 6/9/20:  Message from Father Kirk:  I am looking for a few individuals who would be willing to launder and iron our altar linens.  (These are the linens used by the priest while celebrating Mass – corporals, purificators, and finger towels.)  The process involves presoaking, washing, and hand ironing.  You will be provided with specific instructions on how they are to be folded and ironed.  My hope is that with several people they can share the responsibility and only have to take a “turn” every few weeks.  If you have interest, please contact me at 302-652-6800 Ext 112 or smmkirk@smmchurch.org or  stephanie.casey@smmchurch.org or ext. 145.  

• 6/7/20:  The Link to the SMMS 8th Grade Graduation Parade will go Live today, June 7th at noon & the SMMS 8th grade Graduation will be made available online at 4pm & the SMMS 8th grade graduation slide show available at 4:30pm.

• 6/6/20:  The June 7th bulletin is now available online, our special graduation issue, and online mass for Trinity Sunday this weekend will be available today at 5pm. 

• 6/5/20:  Eucharistic Minister (EM) Training Video is now available online.  Please remember in Phase 1, EM's are now scheduled in advance.

• 6/5/20:  SMM School's 8th grade Baccalaureate Mass is available online. 

• 6/3/20: As we prepare to open our doors tomorrow for our 1st daily Mass at 10am, a few reminders: please familiarize yourself with the reopening guidelines & watch the instructional video prior to coming. There will be no worship aids for daily masses, but you can bring your own missal or visit our website on your mobile device for the link to today's readings from the USCCB. See you tomorrow!

• 5/31/20:  Parishioners reopening instructional video is now available online.  This video will assist parishioners with returning to mass.  We ask anyone planning to attend mass to please view this video and follow our reopening guidelines.

• 5/30/20:  Pentecost Sunday Mass is now available online.

• 5/29/20:  Reopening schedule announced:  1st daily mass will be June 4th at 10AM & 1st weekend mass will be June 7th at 10AM.  As SMM reopens, Phase 1, we will offer 2 daily masses per week (T & TH) and one weekend mass (Sunday).  Our approach is to have a safe and gradual opening, giving time between masses to learn and make changes as needed, ensuring the best practices are utilized. 

• 5/27/20:  Daily Mass for 5/27/20 offered for Fran & Kay Reilly's 70th Wedding Anniversary is available online.  Interview with the couple is posted after the Mass.

• 5/22/20:  Mass for the Ascension of the Lord / 7th Sunday of Easter  is now available online, along with the bulletin for the weekend of May 24th. 

• 5/21/20:  A letter from Father Kirk addressing heading back to church is now available online and will also be mailed to all parishioners.  The letter addresses general information, celebration of the Eucharist, directives for the distribution of and instructions for those receiving Holy Communion. Please keep checking our website for the most up to date information as it is available.  

• 5/19/20:  Father Kirk is pleased to announce the newly formed SMM Parish Reopening Task Force.  The task force members are as follows:  Stephanie Casey, Bill Dowdell, Howard Eck, Garvan McDaniel, Megan McGlinchey, and Melissa Calvanico-Pollio.  They have been charged with creating guidelines for the reopening of SMM Church and the resumption of Masses.  Father Kirk expects their work to be completed as quickly as possible however please be aware that this will still take some time.  Bishop Malooly will be issuing directives for reopening in the very near future.  We will issues updates as they become available.  Keep praying.  Stay patient.

• 5/19/20: Governor Carney's announcement 5/18/20 regarding church opening guidelines and the resumption of public worship services in DE: Please know the specific details of "when" and "how" masses in the Diocese of Wilmington will resume are still being determined.  

• 5/19/20:  In our June 7^th bulletin, we will be listing our graduates from SMM School (8^th grade) & our parish high school graduates.  Families with college graduates / info requested: we would also like to publish a list of parishioners that graduated from college as the Class of 2020.  If you are a parishioner & have a graduate from college this year, please send their name, college name, & major to Stephanie.Casey@smmchurch.org.  

• 5/16/20:  Mass for the 6th Sunday of Easter is now available online.

• 5/13/20:  Today at 10AM, Bishop Malooly will live-stream a School Mass for Catholic School Students and their families.  All are welcome to join.

• 5/10/20:  As we celebrate Mary during the month of May, and salute our earthly mothers on Mothers' Day, we present images of Our Lady from the churches of the Diocese of Wilmington video. We pray that one day soon we will be worshiping together again in our beautiful church buildings.

• 5/9/20:  Mass for the 5th Sunday of Easter is now available.  Prayers go out today to all the children that would have received their 1st Holy Communion this weekend.

• 5/8/20:  The 5/10/20 bulletin is now available online.        

• 5/7/20:  Memorial Mass Live Streamed Thursday 5/7/20 at 5PM.  We invite you to join us via live stream as Father Kirk will be offering a Memorial Mass to remember all those who have passed away during the time of quarantine. We will remembering the names that have already been brought forward by parishioners.  All are welcome.  

• 5/5/20:  Please read the Looking Ahead PDF provided by the diocese.  It should be helpful to the many people who are inquiring as to when we will open our churches and what to expect when we are back in our churches.  As you will see, there are still many realities to consider.     

• 5/3/20:  On this World Day of Prayer for Vocations, a vocation day message from Craig Kursinsky is now available.

• 5/2/20:  Our 4th Sunday of Easter Mass for this weekend is now available.  

• 5/2/20:  Prayers go out today to all the children that would have received their 1st Holy Communion this weekend.

• 5/1/30:  The Catholic Diocese of Wilmington invites all of us to join together in the 9 day Coronavirus Novena from May 2nd through May 10th.  All 9 days of the Novena, from Mr. John-Paul Deddens.  Listen to the excerpt from Catholic Forum airing this weekend where Father Kirk discusses the novena.  

• 4/30/20:  Watch the special video from Bishop Malooly regarding Friday's reconsecration of our country to Mary, Queen of the Church, and about the Diocese of Wilmington's Coronavirus Novena (Saturday, May 2nd to Sunday, May 10th).  All 9 days of the Novena. 

• 4/29/20:  Join Archbishop José H. Gomez, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and archbishop of Los Angeles, in renewing our consecration to Mary on Friday, May 1st at 3PM!  Livestream available on LA Catholics website & facebook.  This moment of unified prayer will give our Church the occasion to pray for Our Lady’s continued protection of the vulnerable, healing of the sick, and wisdom for those who work to cure COVID-19.  Worship aids available.

• 4/27/20:  Join us each week on facebook for the "Question of the Week."  This week we ask if you know someone who has passed away during this time & the family wasn’t able to have a funeral? If so, please place their name in the comments on facebook as we have created a virtual prayer chain to lift up in prayer all those listed.

• 4/24/20:  The 4/26/20 bulletin is now available online.  Bulletins during this time will be available online every other week and be shortened in size.   

• 4/25/20:  Our 3rd Sunday of Easter Mass for this weekend is now available online.

• 4/25/20:  Today's daily Mass available online for the Feast of St Mark the Evangelist.  Celebrant is Father Kirk Pastor. Howard Eck, diaconate candidate for the Diocese of Wilmington gives the reflection on the readings of the day.

• 4/24/20:  The 4/26/20 bulletin is now available online.  Bulletins during this time will be available online every other week and be shortened in size. 

• 4/21/20:  Thank you message from Father Kirk to all SMM teachers.

• 4/19/20:  Our latest video, Easter symbols for kids, is now available online. Have your children watch and join Father Kirk as he explains the symbols of Easter.      

• 4/18/20:  Our 2nd Sunday of Easter Mass / Divine Mercy Mass for this weekend will be made available online & posted at 5PM.

• 4/17/20:  In addition to our website for resources, we wanted to make you aware of a new page created on the diocesian website:  Resources in Times of Pandemic.  It is a clearinghouse for resources for:  prayer, spritual formation, resources for all (young adults, young people, children, parents & families, pastoral ministers), resources in Español, best practices and mental health.

• 4/14/20:  Virtual Best Dressed Contest - Congrats to the following winning families chosen by Father Kirk: McNiff, Farrell, Hamill, Mieczkowski, Marley, Riegel, Zogheib & McHugh Family.  Your gift cards werew mailed to your home 4/27/20. Thank you to everyone that participated!  We loved seeing your families.

• 4/12/20:  Easter Message from Father Kirk available online.

• Parishes with live stream for Easter Sunday morning:  8AM Cathedral of Saint Peter, Wilmington, DE, 9AM Saint Elizabeth Parish, Wilmington, DE, 9AM Saint Ann, Bethany Beach, DE, 9:30AM Saint Mary of the Assumption, Hockessin, DE, 10:30AM (Latin Mass) St. Patrick, Wilmington, DE

• 4/12/20:  Our Easter Sunday Bulletin.  During this time of quarantine, bulletins will be available online every other week and be shortened in size.

• 4/11/20:  Saturday Easter Vigil - Part 1 & Easter Vigil Part II  - 8PM live stream, online after.  We experienced some technical difficulties during the stream, breaking it into two parts.  To those watching, thank you for your patience & understanding.

• 4/10/20:  Good Friday of the Lord's Passion was live streamed at 3PM, available online after that.   

• 4/9/20:  Holy Thursday Mass - The Lord's Supper is now available online. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we had technical difficulties. 

• 4/8/20:  Memorial Mass now available online. This mass is being offered for the repose of the souls of our beloved dead who have left us during the pandemic. 

• 4/5/20:  Father Kirk's video message for children available now online.  He explains the significant symbols of Holy Week and calls for the young people of the parish to join him in prayer.  

• 4/4/20:  A letter from Father Kirk was mailed to all parishioners and should be delivered this weekend.

• 4/4/20:  Mass for Palm Sunday now available online.  Please subscribe to our YouTube channel when viewing videos.  By obtaining 1,000 subscribers we will have the capability to live stream with better ease.    

• SMM Community: we want to see how you are keeping church alive in your homes.  Send pictures to Stephanie.casey@smmchurch.org and/or share them yourself on facebook using the hashtag  #smmchurchathome and we will feature them on our website & facebook page.   

• 4/3/20:  Thursday, 5th Week of Lent video, Father Norman Carroll reading the Gospel and Seminarian Craig Kursinsky giving a reflection

• 4/4/20:  A letter from Father Kirk was mailed to all parishioners and should be delivered this weekend.

• 4/4/20: Daily Mass is now available online.  During this mass, SMM's permanent diaconate candidate Justin Pollio gives a reflection on entering Holy Week.   

• 4/2/20:  It is with great sadness to inform you that Father Hilary Rodgers, former Associate Pastor at SMM, passed away.  Read the Dialog article.

• 4/1/20:  Updated Message from Bishop Malooly

• 4/1/20: Please watch the Urgent Personal Message from Father Kirk.  We have had parishioners ask how they can give during these times.  Information on ways to give today.

• 3/31/20:  SMM School's 3rd Grade Stations of the Cross available on online.

• 3/30/20: No Palm distribution announced.  Read the Dialog article.

• 3/28/20:  Mass for the 5th Sunday in Lent is now available online. Celebrant is the Most Reverand W. Francis Malooly, Bishop of Wilmington with concelebrant is Very Reverand James T. Kirk.  

• 3/27/20:  Stations of the Cross with Benediction with Father Kirk is now available online.  Please use our guide for adoration with children if watching as a family since the stations include adoration.

• 3/27/20:  Daily Mass with Father Kirk was added to our YouTube channel.  Father is saying daily masses, all intentions are begin fulfilled & we will be posting one a week online for people to view.  Previous masses on our YouTube channel.

• 3/25/20:  The Rosary with Father Kirk is now available online.  Start off your morning praying the rosary with intentions for the swift end to the Corona Virus.

• 3/18/20:  Video message from Father Kirk on our new YouTube channel

• 3/17/20:  Letter from Father Kirk to the Parish.  

• NEW! Online giving is now available on our website for offertory donations.  We appreciate your continued support during this time.  Offertory envelopes can be mailed to the parish office. 

• We ask that you use Pope Francis’ Prayer to Blessed Mary during the Coronavirus Pandemic in your daily prayer.

• Effective 3/15/20: Bishop Malooly, at the advice of government officials, and after consultation with medical professionals, has canceled all public Masses in the Diocese of Wilmington until further notice.  This effort is designed to help safeguard the public and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  

• 3/15/20:  The diocesan Office of Communications set up https://cdow.org/coronavirus in order to keep the Catholic community up-to-date regarding the coronavirus.   

• 3/13/20:  All diocesan and parish Catholic schools and religious education programs are closed or canceled. As of now, schools are scheduled to reopen on Monday, May 18, 2020.  SMM Church Hall, School & Gym will be closed to any outside activities & all CYM Sports events have been cancelled until further notice.

• 3/13/20:  Eucharistic Ministers to the sick & homebound will not make any home or nursing home visits until further notice as a precautionary measure.