Author: Tracy Jordan

Immaculate Conception / St. Bridget’s Church
A Roman Catholic Community of African American Tradition
“We’ve Come This Far By Faith”

Mission Statement: The Parish of Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s is a Roman Catholic faith community whose worship reflects and celebrates the cultural gifts and diversity of its members. We welcome all believers to worship God, love one another, evangelize the good news of Jesus Christ and serve those in need.

January 4, 2026

445 Frederick Douglass Street, Rochester, NY 14608
(585) 235-3340 ~ (585) 235-8315 Fax
Emergency Line: (585) 723-6531
www.immaculateconceptionrochester.org
rimmacul@dor.org
Office located at: 34 Monica Street, Rochester, NY 14619
Office Hours: 9:00 am — 3:00 pm (Monday-Friday)
Parish Staff
Rev. Raymond Fleming, Pastor
fr.ray.fleming@dor.org
Richard Rall, Deacon
richard.rall@dor.org
Myrtle Fontenette, Religious Education Coordinator
& RCIA Coordinator
myrtle.fontenette@dor.org
Emanuel Colon, Multi Parish Finance Director
emanuel.colon@dor.org
Jeanne Engelbrecht, Finance Manager
jeanne.engelbrecht@dor.org
Tracy Jordan, Administrative Assistant
tracy.jordan@dor.org
Joanie Fraver, Finance Council Chair
Ramona Moore, Pastoral Council Chair

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
The Magi undertook an arduous journey to see Jesus. For us, sometimes even a short trip to Mass can feel like a challenge. Yet the God who set the stars in the sky desires an intimate relationship with each of us. This year is a good time to renew our commitment to grow closer to God. A star revealed Jesus’ birth to the Magi; let us ask God to reveal himself to us today.

Sunday Mass ~ 9:00 a.m.
Holy Days: Consult bulletin or call the office.
Sacrament of Reconciliation: By Appointment.
Sacrament of Marriage: Pre-Cana is a Diocesan Requirement. Arrangements should be made at least six months in advance.
Baptism: Please call the office to make arrangements.
Catechumenate: Adults interested in joining the Roman Catholic Church, please call the office.

Sunday, January 4, 2026
Dalton Doucette
Requested by Betty Wells & Family

Please pray for the sick of the parish and for family and friends of parishioners: Earl Barnes, Fr. Robert Bradler, Clara Bray, Jocelyn Bucchan, Fr. Giles Conwill, Tom Degnan, Jacquelyn Dobson, Tom Fugate, LaVaughans Holcomb, Denise McGowan, Harold Moore, David Powe, Bing Reaves, Carolyn Walker, Kathy Wheeler

LECTOR SCHEDULE
Sunday, January 4, 2026
Reader I & II—Andre Fontenette
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Reader I & II—Keith Parris
Sunday, January 18, 2026
Reader I & II—Maureen Corral
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Reader I & II—Lynn Fulmore
Sunday, February 1, 2026
Reader I & II—Makeeda Tatum/Violet Booker
Sunday, February 8, 2026
Reader I & II—Marcia Fugate/Teyana Pappin
Sunday, February 15, 2026
Reader I & II—Don Toyer
Sunday, February 22, 2026
Reader I & II—Lynn Fulmore

Mass Intentions can now be scheduled for 2026. Please call or stop by the office to schedule Mass Intentions. The cost is $10.

Offerings for December 28, 2025
Offerings: $1,237 Attendance: 57
Online Giving: $160 Online Givers: 4
Christmas: $1,029 Attendance: 50
Thank you for your generous support.

JANUARY
Sun. Jan. 4 Blood Pressure Screening
Mon. Jan. 19 Martin Luther King Day—Office Closed
Wed. Jan. 28 Finance Council Mtg.—3:00 pm St. Monica
Fri. Jan. 30 St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality

January Christian Action
Make a Difference:
Join a ministry. Change a bad habit.
Help a stranger. Do more than is expected.
Say God bless you! Say please and thank you!
Listen instead of speak! Pray for someone!
Hold the door open for someone!
Let someone go ahead of you!

Parish—Goal $11,000
$6,749 Pledged
61.35 % of Goal
As of this date, 19 families have contributed to the CMA. We thank those who have given generously and ask all who have not yet given to prayerfully consider doing so. The CMA helps our Church and our parish in so many ways. Please consider all the ways that God has blessed you and your family, and how the Church has brought goodness into your lives. Join our appeal and give back what you can so that we remain strong and able to do God’s great work!

Blood Pressure Screening will be offered today in the sacristy. Please have your blood pressure taken before leaving church.

Epiphany of the Lord
Epiphany means “manifestation.” It is the feast in which we celebrate not only Christ’s manifestation to the Gentiles but rather the revelation of God to the world in Jesus Christ. The Magi were the very first person to journey toward the Lord. They are seen as the forerunners of a call and response in faith. To the Magi, the star was the sign of the great King. It burned like a flame pointing the way to God. As soon as they saw the star, they departed immediately from their homeland, bringing with them gifts to present to the great King. The light of the star led them to the Light of Lights.
How can we be the Magi of today? The feast of the Epiphany draws us into a journey toward the Lord. Daily we acknowledge Christ as the light of our life. The Magi offered gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh: we offer only our humble selves. Are we really Magi today? Yes, we have received the Light and “it cannot be hidden under a bushel basket but must be placed on a lampstand for all to see.” What a wonderful responsibility every Christian bears! We must let the divine light of Christ shine through us. How very blessed we are to be the bearers of Christ today!

A Prayer to Keep God First This New Year
Dear God,
Thank you that you make all things new. Thank you for all that you've allowed into our lives this past year, the good along with the hard things, which have reminded us how much we need you and rely on your presence filling us every single day.

Dear Friends of Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s Church,
On behalf of the member of Eastern Service Workers Association (ESWA), thank you for your donation of holiday food and toys collected to aid our holiday campaign. Your generosity is greatly appreciated, especially this year, with so many more working families in our community hard-pressed to afford necessities.
With your participation we are building material hope through self organization seven days a week 365 days of a year toward our goal to end poverty.
Thank you again. We wish you all a happy and safe holiday and new year.
Sincerely,
Your friends from ESWA
Thank you to everyone who helped support the families of the Eastern Service Workers Association for Christmas. Your generosity is always appreciated and a blessing to those you helped provide for during the holiday season.

Please remember to sign up for Coffee Hour held once a month on the second Sunday of the month.
You may now bring in homemade items as well as store bought items.
Thank you!

Welcome Visitors!
We are blessed by your presence.
Please come again.

St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality / A Rochester, NY Catholic Worker Community / 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607 / 585-232-3262	REJOICE IN THE LORD ALWAYS. I SAY IT AGAIN REJOICE! / PHILIPPIANS 4:4
Corn Hill Neighborhood Association / 133 S. Fitzhugh Street Rochester, NY 14608 / www.cornill.org	Skips on the Ridge / 640 West Ridge Road / Rochester, NY 14615 / 585-865-3896	Jack & Elvira Powell / Thankful For Two Lives Well Lived Endearing Legacies and, A Love Everlasting
In Loving Memory of the / QUAMINA & HARPER FAMILIES / Love Gail, Elise, Joyce, Richard	In Loving Memory of / RAPHAEL NGUTI / Love Mom, Michael, Camille	Alzheimers Association / Our free 24/7 Helpline provides support and information. Call 800.272.3900 today.
In Loving Memory of / RACHAEL ALICEA & THEODORE ALICEA-SMITH / Rick & Colleen Brade	In Prayerful Remembrance of the Deceased Members of the / CANEPA, CULLEN, MILEY FAMILIES / Love Ralph & Maureen	In Loving Memory of / JOE HAUSER / The Wingo Family
In Loving Memory of / DR. NATHANIEL HURST / The Wingo Family	In Loving Memory of My Guess Family, / CHARLES, MERCEDES, ERIC & MARVA / Out of sight but never out of mind! Marcia Fugate	In Prayerful Remembrance of the Deceased Members of the / CORRAL, DESTEPHANO FAMILIES / Love Ralph & Maureen
In Loving Memory of / JAMES STOKES / The Stokes Family	In Loving Memory of / TOM & NELLIE BOSTICK & / ALICE WALTERS	Linda Nash As You Feast in Heaven We'll Place An Empty Chair In Your honor, In Love, With Thanks / Lynn & Shlonda
In Loving Memory of / BILL CASTLE / The Castle Family	In Loving Memory of / DAVID & LOUISE MILES / Gone, but Never Forgotten / Bill Sr., Bill Jr., Shannon, Shannel & Brandon	“In Memory of the great bass player Tim Sullivan / Doug and Victoria Parker on behalf of the GateSwingers Big Band “
In Loving Memory of / JOANNE LESSLEY / Joanne Gordon / In Loving Memory of / ALL THE DECEASED MEMBERS OF THE McGEE FAMILY / James & Melissa McGee / SPACE AVAILABLE	In Loving Memory of / Joseph Ronald Weber / Roxana C. Weber / In Loving Memory of / TALLAM NGUTI / Love your Wife & Children / SPACE AVAILABLE	In Loving Memory of / Sarah & Donald Gordon & HENRY BELL SR. / The Gordon/Bell Families / In Loving Memory of / MICHAEL & JULIANA NWOKELO SR. / The Nwokelo Family / SPACE AVAILABLE

Blessing of Throats
We will bless the throats of the faithful through the intercession of St. Blasé after Mass today.

Thank You
I would like to thank all of my Immaculate Conception/ St. Bridget’s family who have kept me in prayer, and sent cards and greetings during my recent illness. I am home now and on the mend. Thank you all for your love. Harold Moore

The parish office will be closed on Friday, July 4th in observance of the July 4th Holiday.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

Keep in Prayer
Please keep the Doucette Family in your thoughts and prayers. Morris Doucette, a long time parishioner of Immaculate Conception passed away on Wednesday, August 27th. Please pray for the repose of his soul.

We sincerely thank you for your expressions of sympathy. In our loss you have given us peace, healing, comforting words and we are forever grateful. Whatever you did to console our hearts, we thank you so much, whatever the part.
May God bless you.
From the family of Edward Leroy Harrington
Thelma Uter & Mary Wingo

The parish office will be closed on Monday, September 1st in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, September 2nd.
Have a Safe and Happy Labor Day!

Keep in Prayer
Please keep Adrianne O’Hagan and the O’Hagan Family in your thoughts and prayers. Kevin O’Hagan, a long time parishioner of Immaculate Conception passed away on November 25th. Please pray for the repose of his soul.

Living Faith
Say It, Pray It, Aloud
Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord, and let your faithful ones bless you. Let them discourse of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might. Psalm 145:10-11
One of the reasons my kids think I’m a bit nuts might have to do with the times when, out of nowhere I say something like, “Flour, I need to get flour at the store. Flour.” In response to their quizzical looks, I have to explain once again that saying it out loud just helps me remember.
Similarly, I’ve always found that the best way for me to remember a fact, process an idea is to teach it to someone else. Aloud.
In the same way, making a habit of giving thanks to the Lord aloud, blessing him with my voice and “discoursing” aloud of God’s goodness might help me remember all those vital truths when I’m overwhelmed and the temptation to forget can be so strong.
Lord, I praise you and give you thanks—aloud!
Amy Welborn

Blood Pressure Screening will be offered today in the sacristy. Please have your blood pressure taken before leaving church.

Welcome Jurnee Charles, Shiloh Henry and Indyiaroya Massey Claude who were newly baptized into our parish community on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

New members are welcome at Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s Church. For more information on how to join the parish, please call the parish office at 235-3340 ext. 116.

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:8

ri. Mar. 28 St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality
Stations of the Cross—6:00 pm

Welcome visitors we are blessed by your presence.
Please come again!

CASE (Creating A Safe Environment) Training Policy
CASE training is a diocesan requirement for those who work with children/vulnerable adults. This training is a way to create safety for our most vulnerable individuals, who we are called to protect in the church. They are beloved children of God, and this training is important to understand who is at risk and how to protect them.
The following ministries require CASE training:
Eucharistic Ministries
Ushers
Cantors
Lectors
Choir members (if there are youth members)
Catechist (working with youth in any capacity—Faith, Formation, Youth Group, Vacation Bible School, Children’s Liturgy, and any other youth activities)
Any committee that involves youth or vulnerable adults (including ministry and fundraising activities)
Any social groups that involve vulnerable adults or youth (including ministry and fundraising activities)
CASE training is done online and takes about an hour. It also includes a background check and signed code of conduct. CASE training, the background check, and the signed code of conduct must be updated every 3 years. Those over 70 who have taken CASE training in the last 3 years do not need to renew the training, only the background check and the code of conduct.
Tracy Jordan is the CASE coordinator for Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s. If you need to take the training, please email tracy.jordan@dor.org for instructions.
Thank you for keep our youth and vulnerable adults safe!

Blood Pressure Screening will be offered today in the sacristy following Mass. Please have your blood pressure taken before leaving church.

Welcome Visitors to Immaculate Conception / St. Bridget’s Church
We are blessed by your presence.
Please come again!

Love Your Neighbor
All of Them

Sunday Mass ~ 9:00 a.m.
Holy Days: Consult bulletin or call the office.

REMINDER: If you attend another local Catholic church on the weekend, you can place your Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s donation envelope in their collection basket and your donation will be returned to us.

BULLETIN SUBMISSIONS:
Please send bulletin submissions to Tracy by 4pm on Mondays: tracy.jordan@dor.org with photos.

Building Foundations Caregiving explores the role of caregiver and changes they may experience, building a support team and managing caregiver stress.
Supporting Independence focuses on helping the person living with dementia take part in daily activities, providing the right amount of support and balancing safety and independence while managing expectations.
Communicating Effectively teaches how dementia affects communication including tips for communicating well with family, friends and health care professionals.
Responding to Dementia Related Behaviors details common behavior changes and how they are a form of communication, non-medical approaches to behaviors and recognizing when additional help is needed.
Exploring Care and Support Services examines how best to prepare for future care decisions and changes, including respite care, residential care and end-of life care.

Join the ICSB Liturgical Dance Team
Instructor: Nicolette Ferguson
Start Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
For youth and adults
Class starts 9am sharp each week
Wear comfortable clothing
See the Ministry Coordinator, Penny Parris or Joanne Gordon to sign up.

WE NEED WEEKLY MASS INTENTIONS! Please consider scheduling Mass Intentions during the week. Please call or stop by the office to schedule. Thank you

Thank you to everyone who helped support the families of the Eastern Service Workers Association for Christmas. Your generosity is always appreciated and a blessing to those you helped provide for during the holiday season.

Coffee Hour will be held on the second Sunday of each month. Please consider hosting a coffee hour for a special event or for a loved one. Sign up sheets are available in the gathering space. Please no home baked goods, only purchased items. For more information or questions please see Isabelle Walters or Ruth Miller. Thank you

The Wisdom of Fulton Sheen
The Church knows too that to marry the present age and its spirit is to become a widow in the next.

Thank you to all who helped us reach our team goal of $2,000 for the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, October 4th. If you would still like to make a donation please do so by donating here:
http://act.alz.org/goto/KOPCLA
If you have any questions please reach out to any of the Ladies Auxiliary members:
Lynn Fulmore Gail Whitcraft Myrna Barthelemy
Pat Nguti Rose Stokes Michelle Horman
Yvette Reaves Shelly Smith Joanne Gordon
Jackie Bryant Verma Brown Maurini Strub

REMINDER
If you attend another local Catholic church on the weekend, you can place your Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s donation envelope in their collection basket and your donation will be returned to us.

Ministry Schedule
Sunday, December 29, 2019
Lectors
Reader I—Walter DeRouen
Reader II—Maureen Corral
Eucharistic Ministers
George Fontenette—Roxana Weber
Ushers
Bing Reaves—Tim Sullivan
George Fontenette—Wayne Uter
Wednesday, January 1, 2020 ~ New Year’s Day
Lectors
Reader I—Kathryn Castle
Reader II—Ruth Miller
Eucharistic Ministers
Marcia Fugate—George Fontenette
Sunday, January 5, 2020
Lectors
Reader I—Don Toyer
Reader II—Ruth Miller
Eucharistic Ministers
George Fontenette—Jackie Bryant
Ushers
Lee Wingo—Joe Catalli
Aloys Bukuru—Mike Nwokelo

Thank you to all who came out on Saturday, October 11th and helped clean up and help make the Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s Church grounds beautiful! “Many hands make light and good work”

St. John Living Community
150 Highland Ave, 14620
Volunteer Opportunity
The Spiritual Care department holds Mass and Prayers Services with the Distribution of Holy Communion on Tuesdays at 11:00 AM. Volunteers are needed to assist residents from their rooms to the chapel and assist them at dismissal. The time commitment is from 10:00 AM to Approximately 12:00 PM. Volunteers will be trained and supported within a team environment. Seeking assistance once, twice, or as often as you like per month. Contact: Deacon Bill Rabjohn at (585) 760-1327. wrabjohn@stjohnliving.org -or- bill.rabjohn@dor.org

Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s
Parish—Goal $12,000
As of this date, 32 families have contributed to the CMA. Thank you to all who have made their pledge and for supporting our mission. We have exceeded our goal by 122.75% ($14,730).
Once again, thank you.

Living Faith
Our Family in God
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience...
Colossians 3:12
Among all the genres of viral videos out there, one that I find most affecting is one I’d call “Children meeting their newborn siblings for the first time.”
From teens to toddlers, those moments are nothing but joy. Even small children break into happy tears when their tiny swaddled-up brother or sister is gently placed in their arms. What a mysterious, profound bond is family love!
In Jesus, those natural bonds of “mutual affection,” as Paul calls them elsewhere (Romans 12:10), are expanded. Baptized into him, we’re all brothers and sisters now, called to treat each other with that profound, deeply rooted love and to welcome one another into our lives with open arms and gratitude for the unique gift each one brings into this family—this family of God.
Father, help me grow in love for the brothers and sisters I have in you.
Amy Welborn

Love Your Neighbor—All Of Them

Upcoming Family Game Day at St. Monica!
Sunday, November 2nd from 1:00-4:00 pm.
Pizza lunch will be provided.

Census
Don’t forget to go online to fill out the census card. You can also obtain a census card from an usher or by visiting the link to complete the census: https//tinyurl.com/2cfg9yx3. Or scan the QR code with your smartphone’s camera to access the census. Thank you!

Creating a Safe Environment
(for Volunteers)
All adult volunteers working with children, youth, or vulnerable adults need to complete the Creating a Safe Environment for Volunteers training—whether they are new, renewing after 3 years, working with children/youth, or working with vulnerable adults. In-person training remains an option, and it is the only option for teen volunteers.
For more information or questions, please call the church office.

LECTOR SCHEDULE
Sunday, November 2, 2025
Reader I & II—Andre Fontenette
Sunday, November 9, 2025
Reader I & II—Keith Parris
Sunday, November 16, 2025
Reader I & II—Marcia Fugate/Teyana Pappin
Sunday, November 23, 2025
Reader I & II—Norma Thom
Sunday, November 30, 2025
Reader I & II—Maureen Corral
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Reader I & II—Don Toyer
Sunday, December 14, 2025
Reader I & II—Makeeda Tatum/Violet Booker
Sunday, December 21, 2025
Reader I & II—Makeeda Tatum/Violet Booker
Sunday, December 28, 2025
Reader I & II—Makeeda Tatum/Violet Booker

The 2023 Mass Intention book is now available to schedule Mass Intentions. Please call or stop by the office to schedule Mass Intentions. The offering is $10

Welcome Kavon Ferdinand-Claude who was newly baptized into our parish community on Sunday, May 18, 2025.

Living Faith
No Labor Is in Vain
...be firm, steadfast, always fully devoted to the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
1 Corinthians 15:58
The life of any disciple is one of fits and starts, of sin, of mercy and reconciliation. The saints walked that same path, no matter how finished they might appear to us now. It is tempting to get frustrated as we compare ourselves to that (incorrect) vision of holiness, but as St. Paul himself writes here, when we sincerely put God first, none of our labor for the Kingdom is in vain.
Lent, that most welcomed season of honest self-examination, begins in a few days. As one of those companions on the journey—Dorothy Day—a woman acutely aware of her own failings, yet also confident that the Lord’s work through her weakness was not in vain, encourages: This is Lent, and Lent is a wonderful time to begin again.
Jesus, let your love work through me even in my weakness and doubt.
Amy Welborn

The Knights and Ladies of Peter Claver
On November 19th, during our 2023 Black Catholic History celebration, Dr. Althea Porter and Sr. Roberta Fulton from the Diocese of Buffalo’s chapter of the Knights and Ladies of Peter Claver, spoke on the relevance of this organization today and invited members of ICSB and St. Monica’s churches to consider re-activating the Rochester chapter of this organization.
The Knights and Ladies Auxiliary of Peter Claver was formed in 1909 for service and outreach to the community. Peter Claver, a Spanish Jesuit priest, became patron of slaves due to his outreach and ministry to them. The Jesuits set up the Knights of Peter Claver for African Americans who could not join other fraternal organizations. The national goals involve addressing social justice issues, concentrating particularly on human trafficking, dignity, racism, environmentalism, and prison ministry. The Diocese of Rochester had a chapter that began around 1947 but went dormant in the ‘60’s.
If you would be interested in being a part of the re-activation of the Rochester chapter of the Knights and Ladies of Peter Claver and a chapter for young people, please give Tracy Jordan (our Church’s secretary) your name and contact information by calling 235-3340. The Chapter is open to ALL regardless of race.

Bulletin Ads/Memorials
If you have a bulletin/memorial ad listed in the back of the bulletin and have not paid for your monthly slot, please contact Tracy if you would like to keep the ad/memorial placed in the bulletin. If not, the ad/memorial will be taken out by the end of August, so someone else can utilize the space.
If you have any questions please contact Tracy Jordan.
Thank you

Jumbo Red Hots & Italian Sausage ~ $15 Each
6-Pack Soda ~ $5
Please see Don Toyer to purchase.

Thank you to everyone at Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s Church for your continued support for our annual Nona Patterson Chambers Scholarship. Each year you help make our scholarship program and concert a success!

Mass Intentions can be scheduled for 2023.
The 2023 Mass Intention book is now available to schedule Mass Intentions. Please call or stop by the office to schedule Mass Intentions. The offering is $10.

22nd Annual Fr. Chester P. Smith
National Black Catholic Men's Conference—New Orleans, LA
Registration is now open!
September 4-7, 2025
Theme: The Forge (Matthew 28:18-20)
Registration Fee: $175 Adult; $100 Youth age 10-17
Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA
For more information check the Bowman Francis Ministry Website: www.bowmanfrancis.org

Mass Intentions are available for the deceased, special intentions, birthdays or anniversaries. Please call or stop by the office if you would like to schedule Mass Intentions.

If you are interested in advertising or including a Memorial in the bulletin please call the Office.
Welcome Visitors to Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s Church
We are blessed by your presence.
Please come again!

Are you interested in becoming Catholic?
RCIA is now called OCIA.
During their November '21 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meetings, the U.S. Bishops changed the name of the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) to Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). Are you or is someone you know:
- interested in becoming Catholic and receiving the sacraments of baptism, communion, and confirmation?
- baptized in a Christian faith and interested in receiving the sacraments of communion and confirmation?
To learn more contact:
Fr. Ray Fleming at fr.ray.fleming@dor.org or
Myrtle Fontenette at myrtle.fontenette@dor.org, or call the office at 235-3340.

Creating a Safe Environment (CASE TRAINING)
VOLUNTEERS: All volunteers who encounter youth and vulnerable adults need to complete online Creating a Safe Environment training, background check and sign a Code of Conduct every three years. To complete the online course, go to dor.org online training.
Requires CASE Training: Eucharistic Ministers, Ushers, Cantors, Lectors, Choir Members (only if there are youth members)
Complete the Online CASE Training, test and PRINT out your Certificate at http://ec.dor.org
Print and Sign the Volunteer Code of Conduct to be placed with your CASE Certificate
Complete the Consent for Background Check (bringing your valid ID to our office when turning in the paperwork.)

New members are welcome at Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s Church. For more information on how to join the parish, please call the parish office at 235-3340.

CASE (Creating A Safe Environment) Training Policy
CASE training is a diocesan requirement for those who work with children/vulnerable adults. This training is a way to create safety for our most vulnerable individuals, who we are called to protect in the church. They are beloved children of God, and this training is important to understand who is at risk and how to protect them.
CASE training is done online and takes about an hour. It also includes a background check and signed code of conduct. CASE training, the background check, and the signed code of conduct must be updated every 3 years. Those over 70 who have taken CASE training in the last 3 years do not need to renew the training, only the background check and the code of conduct.
Tracy Jordan is the CASE coordinator for Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s. If you need to take the training, please email tracy.jordan@dor.org for instructions.
Thank you for keep our youth and vulnerable adults safe!

Jesus, the Light of the World, as we celebrate your birth . . . .
may we begin to see the world in the light of the understanding you give us.
As you chose the lowly, the outcasts, and the poor to receive the greatest news the world had ever known, so may we worship you in meekness of heart.
May we also remember our brothers and sisters less fortunate than ourselves in this season of giving.
Amen.

REMINDER
If you attend another local Catholic church on the weekend, you can place your Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s donation envelope in
their collection basket and your donation will be returned to us.

Keep in Prayer
Alice Walters passed away on January 18, 2025. Alice was a long-time parishioner of Immaculate Conception Church. Please keep the Walters family in your thoughts and prayers and pray for the repose of Alice Walters soul.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
on the Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxillary visit
www.kofpc.org or local Knights & Ladies contact:
Rochester Knights of the Fr. Charles Hall Council &
Ladies of the Sr. Thea Bowman Court #106
Grand Knight Mr. George Fontenette: gfont1202@gmail.com
Grand Lady Mrs. Lynn Fulmore: mail@epictrainings.com

Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester
Victims of sexual abuse should always report the civil authorities.
To receive help and guidance from the
Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester
contact our Victim Assistance Coordinator:
Deborah A. Housel
585-328-3228, ext. 1555
Toll Free: 1-800-388-7177, ext. 1555
or by e-mail to victimsassistance@dor.org

Reminder that you must be CASE trained to do your ministry. This is a policy of the Diocese of Rochester.
All volunteers who encounter youth and vulnerable adults need to complete online Creating A Safe Environment training, background check and sign a Code of Conduct every three years. To complete the online course, go to dor.org online training or email tracy.jordan@dor.org.

Do Something Beautiful for God
The Essential Teachings of Mother Teresa
A joyful heart is the normal result of heart burning with love. Joy is not simply a matter of temperament. It is always hard to remain joyful—all the more reason why we should try to acquire it and encourage it grow in our hearts.

CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE!!
There are many new and exciting things to check out on the website. See what’s going on in the bulletin and newsletter as well as follow us on Facebook.
www.immaculateconceptionrochester.org

Please remember to sign up for Coffee Hour held once a month on the second Sunday of the month.
You may now bring in homemade items as well as store bought items.
Thank you!

REMINDER
If you attend another local Catholic church on the weekend, you can place your Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s donation envelope in their collection basket and your donation will be returned to us.

Musicians! Lectors! Greeters! Ushers!
Reminder that you must be CASE trained to do your ministry. This is a policy of the Diocese of Rochester.
Contact tracy.jordan@dor.org if you need to be trained or update your CASE training, which must be done every 3 years.

Can we hear Christ’s voice speaking to us today?
Can we hear Christ’s voice speaking to us today? Or are we like those who, recognizing God’s intention to gather the whole world into his fold, were filled with jealousy and deaf to the Good News? We may have moments where we can hear, and moments where distractions deafen us to our shepherd’s voice. Let us pray for new hearts and open ears to follow Christ.

Are you interested in becoming Catholic?
Do you know someone who was baptized Catholic but never learned or practiced their Catholic faith? If you, or someone you know, would like to learn more, contact Myrtle Fontenette, RCIA Coordinator by email: myrtle.fontenette@dor.org or call the office, 325-3893 or 235-3340.

St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality / A Rochester, NY Catholic Worker Community / 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607 / 585-232-3262	BUCKMAN’S PLAZA / 2590 W. Ridge Road, Rochester / Visit our many stores including City Mattress, Visionworks, Pino’s Deli, Megan Nail Spa, / Red Cross, Hair Finale Morgan School of Driving, Orville’s Appliances and many more.
CORN HILL NEIGHBORHOOD / ASSOCIATION / 133 S. Fitzhugh Street Rochester, NY 14608 / www.cornill.org	Mileage Master Center of Rochester / 2488 Browncroft Blvd. / Rochester, NY 14625 / 585-586-1870 / The perfect place for all of your grilling needs	TOM ZUBERT, REALTOR / RE/MAX REALTY GROUP / 585-721-1313 / zubert.tom@gmail.com / (ICS Graduate)
In Loving Memory of the / QUAMINA & HARPER FAMILIES / Love Gail, Elise, Joyce, Richard	In Loving Memory of My Wife / ILONA WHITE / Alphonse White	Skips on the Ridge / 640 West Ridge Road / Rochester, NY 14615 / 585-865-3896
In Loving Memory of / HENRY FAISON JR. / Love Mom, George, Adrian, Andre	Prayerful Remembrance of the Gordons / ARTHUR, SARAH, PEGGY, BUD, BOB, NANCY, GARY / Blessings Bill & Family	In Loving Memory of / JOE HAUSER / The Wingo Family
In Loving Memory of / DR. NATHANIEL HURST / The Wingo Family	In Loving Memory of / DAVID MILES / Love your Wife & Children	In Prayerful Remembrance of the Deceased Members of the / CULLEN & CORRAL FAMILIES / Love Ralph & Maureen
In Loving Memory of / JAMES STOKES / The Stokes Family	In Loving Memory of / JAMES WALTERS / Alice Walters	In Loving Memory of / JEFFREY WALTERS / Alice Walters
In Loving Memory of / DOUGLAS SIMMONS / Alice Walters	In Loving Memory of / ADA FULLWOOD / The Augustine/Fullwood Families	In Loving Memory of / RITA VIOLET AUGUSTINE / The Augustine Family
In Loving Memory of / CREÓLE MON’AE FONTENETTE / Love your Grandparents / For all the Deceased Families, Friends & Parishioners of Immaculate Conception/St. Bridget’s Church / Love Rose Stokes / In Loving Memory of all the deceased DOUCETTE FAMILY / Love Louise & Shannon	In Loving Memory of / Joseph Ronald Weber / Roxana C. Weber / In Loving Memory of / JOANNE LESSLEY / Joanne Gordon / SPACE AVAILABLE	In Loving Memory of / HENRY BELL SR. & Donald Gordon / The Bell/Gordon Families / In Loving Memory of / MARY JACKSON / Thomas & Nellie Bostick / SPACE AVAILABLE

St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality / A Rochester, NY Catholic Worker Community / 402 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607 / 585-232-3262	FUSION4 RESTAURANT / Upscale Caribbean, African & Soul Food Cuisine / OPEN HOURS: 11AM – 9PM / Tuesday – Saturday . . . 585-328-1302 / 719 S. Plymouth Avenue, Rochester / www.FUSION4.COM	DR. PENELOPE PARRIS / Pathway Pediatrics / Now accepting new patients from birth to 24 yrs. Old / 585-256-2210 / www.pathwaypediatrics.com
Corn Hill Neighborhood Association / 133 S. Fitzhugh Street, Rochester, NY 14608 / www.cornill.org	This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent
In Loving Memory of the / QUAMINA & HARPER FAMILIES / Love Gail, Elise, Joyce, Richard	In Loving Memory of My Wife / ILONA WHITE / Alphonse White	In Loving Memory of / OPHELIA (FEE FEE) SMITH / Precious & Family
In Loving Memory of / HENRY FAISON JR. / Love your Mom, George, Adrian Andre	Prayerful Remembrance of the Gordons / ARTHUR, SARAH, PEGGY, BUD BOB, NANCY, GARY / Blessings Bill & Family	FOR THE PROTECTION OF LIFE FROM CONCEPTION TIL NATURAL DEATH / Tom McAfee
This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent
This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent
This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent
This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent	This Space for Rent