<HTML> <HEAD> <META NAME="GENERATOR" CONTENT="Adobe PageMill 3.0 Mac"> <META HTTP-EQUIV="Content-Type" CONTENT="text/html; charset=windows-1252"> <TITLE>St.Basil the Great Parish Handbook</TITLE> <META NAME="Template" CONTENT="Power HD:Microsoft Office 98:Templates:WebPages:Blank Web Page"> </HEAD> <BODY BACKGROUND="http://www.stbasils.org/church/basilseal.gif"> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Welcome</CENTER></H2> <H2><CENTER>to</CENTER></H2> <H2><CENTER>St. Basil the Great</CENTER></H2> <H2><CENTER>Kimberton, Pennsylvania</CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Directory of</CENTER></H2> <H2><CENTER>Parish Services,</CENTER></H2> <H2><CENTER>Staff, and</CENTER></H2> <H2><CENTER>Organizations</CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H1><CENTER>Parish Mission Statement</CENTER></H1> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>In union with the universal church under the leadership ofthe Pope, and the church in Philadelphia, under the leadershipof the Archbishop, we at St. Basil the Great Parish in Kimberton,under the leadership of our Pastor, profess to be members of theone Body of Christ. As such, we are called to fulfill in our localcommunity the mission of our head, Jesus Christ, that all personsbe saved and brought to a knowledge of the truth Accordingly,led by the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, we commit ourselvesto:</P> <P>1. Proclaim in our lives, especially by our conduct at Massand in the reception of the other Sacraments, our total dependenceupon God from whom we have come and to whom we shall return;</P> <P>2. Assist our parish to become a real community by strivingto know one another better so that, recognizing the unique giftsof each member, we can work together to achieve our goals;</P> <P>3. Bring back those who no longer practice the faith and toshare the good news with those in our community who are not yetmembers of the household of the faith;</P> <P>4. Teach the saving message of Jesus Christ to our young membersin religious education programs and to provide our adult memberswith ongoing opportunities to further their knowledge of the goodnews;</P> <P>5. Reach out to our community by helping those in need withappropriate measures.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H1><CENTER>Parish History</CENTER></H1> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>St. Basil the Great Parish was established by John CardinalKrol on June 9, 1965. Father William J. Finigan was named as foundingpastor.</P> <P>The first Sunday and holy day masses for the new parish wereheld in the Kimberton Grange Building on Kimberton Road whileour new church was being built. The initial parish rectory waslocated at the corner of Route 113 and Coldstream Road. Weekdaymasses were held in this building.</P> <P>The first mass in the new church was celebrated on Palm Sunday,1966, and the building itself was dedicated on June 18, 1966.</P> <P>Construction on the rectory and convent began in November of1966 and was completed in August of 1967. The school buildingwas begun in March of 1967 and was ready for the opening of schoolin September 1967.</P> <P>St. Basil's is located on twenty and a half acres of groundin the community of Kimberton, PA, which is part of East PikelandTownship in Chester County. The parish extends approximately sixtysquare miles and encompasses parts of six townships. Most of thisarea was formerly part of St. Ann's parish in Phoenixville.</P> <P>The initial parish membership consisted of approximately 250families and now comprises nearly 1200 families. Parish growthis expected to continue with further development within our geographicboundaries.</P> <P>Our beautiful new church was dedicated on January 15, 2005by Justin Cardinal Rigali.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H1><CENTER>St. Basil the Great, Our Patron Saint</CENTER></H1> <H1><CENTER><IMG SRC="http://www.stbasils.org/church/basil.jpg" ALIGN="BOTTOM"></CENTER></H1> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Basil was born in Caesarea, in Asia Minor, in the year 329.His father and mother were nobles and also saints. There wereten children in the family, four of whom became canonized saints.</P> <P>Basil went to school in Constantinople and then in Athens wherehe lived with his friend, St. Gregory Nazianzen. The two friendsbecame great scholars. Basil opened a school of oratory and practicedlaw in Caesarea. So many people wished to hear him speak in publicthat he was tempted by thoughts of pride. He therefore sold allof his goods, gave the money to the poor, and became a monk. Heconsecrated to God all his knowledge and eloquence.</P> <P>Basil visited the monks who lived in the desert. He then foundedseveral monasteries and drew up rules for the monks. AlthoughBasil was in poor health he performed many penances.</P> <P>Basil became the Archbishop of Caesarea and defended the freedomof his people against the Roman Emperor.</P> <P>Basil wrote many books and defended the Church against theArian heretics. He was given the titles &quot;Doctor of the Church&quot;and &quot;Father of the Church&quot;. He died in 379.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H1><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.stbasils.org/church/staff.html">ParishStaff</A></CENTER></H1> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Addresses and Phone Numbers</CENTER></H2> <P>Rectory</P> <P>Address: 2300 Kimberton Road (corner of E. Seven Stars andKimberton Roads)</P> <P>P.O. Box 637</P> <P>Kimberton, PA 19442-0637</P> <P><B>Rectory 610-933-2110</B></P> <P><B>Church Hall 610-933-1422 </B>(2320 Kimberton Road)</P> <H4>Office of <A HREF="mailto:sbasilschool@yahoo.com">Mrs. AngelaRufo, M.Ed.,</A> Principal 610-933-2453 (2330 Kimberton Road)</H4> <H4>Office of <a href="mailto:dre@stbasils.org">Erin Gauntner</a>,Director of Religious Education 610-935-1261</H4> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Parish Office Hours</CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><B>Monday through Thursday: 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.</B></P> <P>Anytime by Appointment.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Schedules</CENTER></H2> <P>Church Hours: The chapel is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to3:00 p.m.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Mass Schedule</CENTER></H2> <P>Sunday: Saturday Evening, 5:00 p.m.</P> <P>Sunday Morning, 8:30 and 11:00 a.m.</P> <P>Weekdays: 8:45 a.m. in Chapel. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday andFriday</P> <P>Holy Days: 12:15 PM and 7:30 PM</P> <P>Christmas and New Year's Day: Special schedule will apply.Please see Parish Bulletin or call the rectory.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Confessions</CENTER></H2> <P>Saturdays: 4:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.</P> <P>Anytime upon request if Father is available.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Mass Intentions</CENTER></H2> <P>Arrangements may be made during office hours at the rectoryto have a mass offered for your intentions. Both the living andthe deceased may be remembered in this way. When the intentionis &quot;announced&quot;, the mass is scheduled for a particulartime and day (weekday) at St. Basil's. The offering is $10.00.When the intention is &quot;unannounced&quot;, the Mass will beoffered at an unscheduled time. Mass cards are provided at theRectory, and can be arranged for by phone during office hours,Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 2 PM, and picked up in the rectoryfoyer anytime between 8 AM and 8 PM on any day without even ringingthe bell.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Eucharistic Fast</CENTER></H2> <P>Regular meals and solid food or liquids may be taken up toone hour before receiving Holy Communion. Water and medicine neverbreak the Eucharistic fast and may be taken anytime. These regulationsapply at all times, whether Holy Communion is received at massin the morning, afternoon, evening, or at midnight. The sick andinfirm, as weld at mass in the morning, afternoon, evening, orat midnight. The sick and infirm, as well as those who care forthem, may receive Holy Communion even if they have taken somethingduring the previous hour.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Fast and Abstinence During Lent</CENTER></H2> <P>Everyone over the age of 14 is obliged to abstain from meaton Ash Wednesday and all Fridays of Lent. On Ash Wednesday andGood Friday, everyone between the ages of 18 and 59 is also obligedto observe the law of fast by limiting themselves to a singlefull meal. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are the only days ofboth fast and abstinence.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Sacramental Liturgies - Policies and Practice</CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Baptisms</CENTER></H2> <P>Sundays: 12:00 noon</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Baptism is the first step leading to full membership in thechurch. The Sacrament of Baptism is administered most Sundaysat 12:00 noon. <B>Please make arrangements beforehand by calling<a href="mailto:dre@stbasils.org"> Erin Gauntner</a> at 610-935-1261.</B></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Pre-Jordan- Baptismal Preparation Classes are held the 4thThursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the rectory.<B> Please call<a href="mailto:dre@stbasils.org"> Erin Gauntner</a>, Director of Religious Education, at 610-935-1261 to make arrangements to attend Baptismal Preparation Classes.</B></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Since parents are seen as their child's &quot;first and best&quot;teachers, the Pre-Jordan Program seeks to offer parents both thesupport of the community and an opportunity for reassessing theirown faith and responsibilities. Prior to their child's baptism,parents are required to attend an evening session that includesa review of the history and theology of the Sacrament of Baptism,reaffirms the faith of the parents, and offers them a chance toshare their faith and concernffirms the faith of the parents,and offers them a chance to share their faith and concerns withother parents.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><B>Godparents- Sponsors </B>(godparents) and parents presentthe infant for Baptism. The role of the sponsor is to help thebaptized person to lead a Christian life and to fulfill the obligationsconnected with it. <B>The Church has established the followingrequirements for sponsors (Godparents):</B></P> <P>1. Sixteen years of age or older.</P> <P>2. Must have received the Sacraments of Initiation, namelyBaptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.</P> <P>3. If married, marriage must have been witnessed by a Catholicpriest or by special exception approved by the Archbishop.</P> <P>4. Presently active in the practice of the Faith by celebratingthe Eucharist and receiving the sacraments regularly.</P> <P><B><I>If you cannot sign a statement swearing that the abovefour requirements are true, you are not eligible in Canon Lawto stand as a sponsor, and cannot be given an Eligibility Certificateby the Pastor or DRE.</I></B></P> <P>Note: Only one sponsor is necessary, however if there are twosponsors, they should be of different genders. A baptized Christianwitness may take the place of the second sponsor but he/she mustbe a practicing member of a Christian church.</P> <P>Letter of Eligibility- Sponsors from parishes other than St.Basil's are requested to present a certificate of eligibilityissued by their parish.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Holy Eucharist</CENTER></H2> <P>Children of the parish, including those who are enrolled inthe second grade of the parish school and the C.C.D. program ofreligious instruction, receive the sacrament of First Eucharistin the spring of each year. Contact <B><a href="mailto:dre@stbasils.org">Erin Gauntner</a> at 610-935-1261 </B>for additional information.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Confirmation</CENTER></H2> <P>Each year, sixth grade students in both the parish school andC.C.D. program are invited to participate in a program of preparationfor receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation in the spring. Contact<B> <a href="mailto:dre@stbasils.org">Erin Gauntner</a> at 610-935-1261</B>for additional information.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Matrimony</CENTER></H2> <P>Couples planning to marry should contact St. Basil's at least6 months prior to the proposed wedding date so that appropriateassistance in marriage preparation may be provided.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Pre-Cana Program- Each couple is required to attend a Pre-CanaProgram for Marriage Preparation. The Archdiocese conducts regionalprograms that meet once a week for four consecutive weeks. Anotheroption is participation in an &quot;Engaged Encounter&quot; weekend.<A HREF="mailto:stbasil@chesco.com">Call the rectory for furtherdetails.</A></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Weddings can be scheduled on Saturdays between 10: AM and 2PM.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Anointing of the Sick and Visitation of the Sick</CENTER></H2> <P>Sick calls will be made at anytime. Please notify us if anyoneis sick or in the hospital.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><A HREF="mailto:stbasil@chesco.com">Please notify the rectory</A>if you or anyone in your family has been hospitalized or confinedat home due to sickness, infirmity, or age so they may be visited.Our pastor as well as Eucharistic ministers visit and bring HolyCommunion to those unable to get out.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Christian Burial</CENTER></H2> <P>At the time of a death in the family, please call the rectoryfor the prayers and support of the parish community. The funeraldirector assists in the preparations for the Mass of ChristianBurial, working together with the pastor and the parish staff.Either the family or the family?s funeral director may call therectory for coordination of the arrangements. Whenever possible,the family of the deceased takes part in planning the Mass ofChristian Burial by choole, the family of the deceased takes partin planning the Mass of Christian Burial by choosing readings,lectors, hymns, and other aspect of the funeral rites.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Funerals are normally celebrated in the parish of the deceased.However, any member of the faithful, or those responsible forthe deceased person?s funeral, may choose another church; thisrequires consent of the pastor of that church and notificationto the pastor of the deceased.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>With very few exceptions, the Catholic faithful are entitledto receive Christian burial. The Church permits cremation providedthat it is not chosen as a denial of faith in the resurrectionof the body. It is required that the cremated remains be buriedin a cemetery.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>A Catholic cemetery is considered a sacred place and supportsour belief in the resurrection of the body and the communion ofsained place and supports our belief in the resurrection of thebody and the communion of saints. It is only by way of exception,therefore, that Catholics are buried in a non-sectarian cemetery.St. Basil's Parish uses the St. Ann's Cemetery located on PothouseRoad in Phoenixville.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER><A HREF="mailto:sbasilschool@yahoo.com">Parish School</A></CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Catholic schools are unique expressions of the Church's effortto achieve the purposes of Catholic education among the young.They &quot;are the most effective means available to the Churchfor the education of children and young people&quot;. (<I>To Teachas Jesus Did, A Pastoral Message on Catholic Education</I>, NationalConference of Catholic Bishops, November 1972.)</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Our parish school opened September 11, 1967, with six grades(115 pupils) and continued to grow with the addition of the seventhand eighth grades in 1968 and 1969, respectively. In Septemb theaddition of the seventh and eighth grades in 1968 and 1969, respectively.In September of 1974, the kindergarten was added. To accommodatethe growing enrollment, an addition to the school building wasdedicated in the Spring of 1993. A pre-K program for three andfour year olds was added in 1994.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>The present enrollment is two hundred seventy six (276) students,and shows a healthy growth pattern<B>.</B></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><B>Our school is fully accredited by the Middle States Associationof Colleges and Schools, Commission on Elementary Schools, havingbeen awarded a Certificate of Accreditation for the period April27, 2001 to May 30, 2011.</B></P> <P><IMG SRC="http://www.stbasils.org/church/MidStat.jpg" WIDTH="667" HEIGHT="513" NATURALSIZEFLAG="0" ALIGN="BOTTOM"></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>For the first 16 years, the school was administered by theHandmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In 1983, the Sisters ofSt. Francis of Philadelphia assumed this administration. In 1993administrative duties were assumed by a lay administrator. Theprincipal, Mrs. Angela Rufo, M.Ed., is assisted by a lay staffof 10 full-time and 4 part-time teachers in addition to variousstaff personnel.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Activities include student government, yearbook and instrumentalmusic. Various math, art, computer technology, academic, and writingcompetitions are encouraged. There are after-school Cub Scouting,Brownie, and Jr. Girl Scouting. Presently, there are boys? andgirls' basketball and track, girls' softball, and cheerleading.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>A hot lunch program directed by a volunteer parent group isavailable to all students. It is part of the National School LunchProgram and is prepared by the Great Valley School District.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>As part of the school philosophy, the acquisition of knowledgeis an ongoing process for the advancement of intellectual, social,spiritual, physical, and emotional growth. Our purpose is to encourageand enhance these areas of development while celebrating our Catholicfaith and values.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Within the approved curriculum, skills are introduced sequentially,regularly enforced, and built upon as a child progresses througheach stage of learning. We strive to recognize each child's uniquepotential by creating a stimulating, challenging, and structuredenvironment where children feel free to express themselves ina responsible manner.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>The faculty of the school assists parents by using skill, time,and experience in striving to impart the Gospel message of FAITH,HOPE, LOVE, AND SERVICE among staff and students and by endeavoringto broaden the faith community.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>A tuition, registration, and supply fee is charged to eachstudent; however, no student is denied this education opportunityfor lack of resources. Enrollment is open o student is deniedthis education opportunity for lack of resources. Enrollment isopen first to children of St. Basil parishioners, followed byparishioners of parishes who do not have a school. Other childrenwill be considered if space is available.</P> <H4><CENTER>Do your Christmas and other shopping online through</CENTER></H4> <H4><CENTER>the <A HREF="http://www.schoolcash.com/">schoolcash.com</A>link below, and raise money for our school</CENTER></H4> <H4><CENTER>without spending a dime!</CENTER></H4> <P><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.schoolcash.com/sharedgraphics/Clicks.cfm?formindxRefererID=527"><IMG SRC="http://www.schoolcash.com/sharedgraphics/ShowImage.cfm?formindxRefererID=527" WIDTH="289" HEIGHT="59" BORDER="0" ALT="SchoolCash.com(SM)" NATURALSIZEFLAG="0" ALIGN="BOTTOM"></A></CENTER></P> <P><A HREF="mailto:sbasilschool@yahoo.com"><B>The school officephone number is 610-933-2453. Please call <I>during school hoursonly!</I></B></A></P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Religious Education</CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><B>Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (C.C.D.)</B>- The purposeof our C.C.D. Program is to assist parents of children in publicschools in the religious education of their children through weeklyinstruction on the basic doctrines of the Catholic Faith as wellas preparation to receive the sacraments of Penance, Eucharist,and Confirmation according to the guidelines of the Archdioceseof Philadelphia. The program is open to all students, kindergartenthrough grade 12.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Parents of C.C.D. students are encouraged to participate inthe program by functioning as teachers or aides, by performinglight office duties, or by helping in any other way that willenhance the program.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><B>Children's Liturgy of the Word</B>- The Liturgy of the WordProgram is offered to children ages 4 to 9. The liturgy programrecognizes that in order to nourish the faith of children, anenvironment sensitive to their needs is essential. Led by a teammember, the children gather for their liturgy in a special placeand have the opportunity to be with a community of peers, to sing,hear the Word of God, and respond to God's Word. This children'sprogram takes place during the 8:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Parents are always welcome to join the team of volunteers.In addition to your children's participat always welcome to jointhe team of volunteers. In addition to your children's participation,if you would like to volunteer a little time to help us continuethe tradition of Children's Liturgy, please let us know!</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><B>Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.)</B>- TheR.C.I.A. Program is a resurrection of the early Church's methodof initiating adults into membership. Today the R.C.I.A. is replacingprivate instruction as the way adults become members of the Church.It is a process of complete conversion and transformation. Besidesimparting basic beliefs of our faith, the program gently invitespeople to change their lives. The group setting provides a morecomplete integration into full, active, involved membership ina parish community.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/directory/archoff.htm">ArchdiocesanServices</A></CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER><A HREF="mailto:cgrantham@CHS-ADPHILA.ORG">CatholicSocial Services</A></CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>St. Basil's is located in Chester County; thus, the field officefor Catholic Social Services is as follows:</P> <P>Christine Grantham, Parish Outreach<BR> Catholic Social Services<BR> 125 N. Darlington Street<BR> West Chester, PA 19380<BR> <B>610-344-7028 EXT 32103<BR> <A HREF="mailto:cgrantham@CHS-ADPHILA.ORG">cgrantham@CHS-ADPHILA.ORG</A></B></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Catholic Social Services provide a variety of services includingcounseling for families and couples, as well as individuals. Dayand evening hours are available each Tuesday and Wednesday. Insuranceplans are utilized when possible and sliding-scale fees are available.Call <B>Thomas Patrick Hall</B> at <B>610-344-7028 </B>for anappointment or for more information.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/directory/archoff.htm">FamilyLife Office Regional Programs</A></CENTER></H2> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>The following programs are conducted on a regular basis throughoutthe year as a service to parishes and to the community.<B> Forcurrent schedules on any of the following programs, please contactthe <A HREF="mailto:familfe@adphila.org">Family Life Office</A>at 215-587-5639.</B></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Marriage Encounter</CENTER></H2> <P>A weekend experience for married couples given by a team ofmarried couples and a priest. The purpose of the program is tohelp people rediscover the beauty and vitality of their marriage,to increase their communications, and to evaluate their apostolicrole in the Church.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Natural Family Planning</CENTER></H2> <P>A two-session program in which married couples help other coupleslearn, understand, and become confident in using natural methodsof family planning. The two sessions, each about two hours long,are approximately six weeks apart.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Separated and Divorced Support Groups</CENTER></H2> <P>Support groups meet to provide spiritual and emotional supportfor those experiencing marital separation or divorce. Meetingsare held on a monthly basis.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>To Live Again</CENTER></H2> <P>Monthly meetings help widows and widowers cope with the lossof their spouses. In addition to group support, these meetingsprovide spiritual, educational, and other special programs. Call<B>610-664-6565</B> (this is a volunteer answering service).</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Young Widows and Widowers</CENTER></H2> <P>Offering spiritual and educational programs, this support groupmeets on the second Friday of each month at the Family Life Centerat St. Charles Seminary.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Engaged Encounter Weekend</CENTER></H2> <P>Weekend programs of intensive reflection and dialogue for engagedcouples. There is a fee to cover costs and a prior deposit isrequired.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Courage</CENTER></H2> <P>A support group for homosexual men and women (married or single)who help each other lead chaste lives in accordance with the Church'steaching on homosexuality<B>. Call 215-587-4505</B>.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER><A HREF="http://pw2.netcom.com/~adphltrb/">Tribunal</A></CENTER></H2> <P>Provides assistance to anyone seeking an annulment. <B>Call215-587-3750</B>.</P> <H1><HR ALIGN=LEFT></H1> <H1><CENTER>Parish Liturgical Ministries</CENTER></H1> <H2><CENTER>Ministers of the Eucharist</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinator: <B>Joan Rook 610-935-8237</B></P> <P>Extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist at St. Basil's consistingof Sisters, lay men, and lay women are trained by the ArchdiocesanOffice for Worship and appointed by the Archbishop to serve a3-year term of service. Eucharistic ministers help with the distributionof Holy Communion at daily and Sunday masses. In addition, theybring Holy Communion on Sundays to parish residents who are homebound.</P> <P><A HREF="http://www.stbasils.org/church/EMschedule.html">EucharisticMinisters's Schedule Online</A></P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Ministers of the Word (Lectors)</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinator: <B><A HREF="mailto:JUNEdonW@aol.com">Mrs. JuneWeiland 610-933-6021</A></B></P> <P>Ministers of the Word are lay men and lay women of the parishwho proclaim the Word of God at daily and Sunday masses and otherspecial liturgies. Anyone interested in helping out with the Ministryof the Word should contact the coordinator or the rectory anytime.No experience is necessary.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Altar Servers</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinators:<B> <A HREF="mailto:camr@msn.com">Mrs. CatherineA. Rothenberger 610-935-8294</A></B></P> <P>Boys and girls of the parish, regardless of the school theyattend, are eligible to become altar servers as soon as they areof 5th grade age.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>We encourage boys and girls to become involved in this activityand seek support of parents to help their sons and daughters becomealtar servers. There is no better way for young men and womento become knowledgeable of the liturgy, the vestments, and thevessels used in the Mass and other activities of liturgical services.Please contact <B><A HREF="mailto:camr@msn.com">Mrs. CatherineA. Rothenberger</A></B> 610-935-8294to discuss training schedules.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Ushers</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinator: <B><A HREF="mailto:pow-mia@netreach.net">Mr. AndrewViscuso</A> 610-933-6398</B></P> <P>Ushers are lay men of the parish who assist with seating duringSunday masses and help collect parishioners? contributions duringthe offertory part of the mass. More importantly, ushers greetparishioners and guests to help them feel welcome at St. Basil's.Anyone interested in helping out should contact the coordinatoranytime.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Music Ministries</CENTER></H2> <P>&quot;If anyone among you is suffering hardship, he must pray.If a person is in good spirits, he should sing a hymn of praise.&quot;- James 5:13</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>St. Basil the Great Choirs</CENTER></H2> <P><CENTER>&nbsp;</CENTER></P> <P><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.stbasils.org/church/choir.html"><B>Clickhere for the Choir Page which details the</B></A></CENTER></P> <P><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.stbasils.org/church/choir.html"><B>severalchoirs in St. Basil's Parish</B></A></CENTER></P> <P><CENTER><IMG SRC="http://www.stbasils.org/church/Mib3.jpg" ALIGN="BOTTOM"></CENTER></P> <H4><CENTER><A HREF="mailto:sunflowerangels@verizon.net">Mary Elizabeth&quot;Mib&quot; Campbell</A></CENTER></H4> <H4><CENTER>610-917-0649</CENTER></H4> <H4><CENTER>Choir Director, Organist, and Director of LiturgicalMusic</CENTER></H4> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Guitar</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinator: <B>Mrs. Claire Ryan 610-935-2024</B></P> <P>Anyone interested in helping out with the guitar mass is welcometo contact Mrs. Ryan.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <H2><CENTER>Cantors</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinator:<A HREF="mailto:sunflowerangels@veerizon.net"> <B>Mary Elizabeth&quot;Mib&quot; Campbell 610-917-0649</B></A></P> <P>or <B><A HREF="mailto:kabeard@earthlink.net">Ken Beard 610-933-6727</A></B>.</P> <P>Volunteers are always welcome. Please contact Mib or Ken ifyou can help out the parish with cantoring skills.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <P><IMG SRC="http://www.stbasils.org/church/koclogo.jpeg" ALIGN="BOTTOM" BORDER="0"><IMG SRC="http://www.stbasils.org/church/knightstitle.jpeg" ALIGN="BOTTOM" BORDER="0"></P> <H3>Knights of Columbus St. Basil's Council 13800</H3> <H3>Meetings on the Third Sunday of the Month at 7:00 PM in theRectory Meeting Room.</H3> <H3>Glenn Deery, Grand Knight 610-935-3059</H3> <H3><A HREF="mailto::stbasilkoc@comcast.net">stbasilkoc@comcast.net</A></H3> <H3><A HREF="mailto:gdeery@comcast.net">gdeery@comcast.net</A></H3> <H3><A HREF="http://home.comcast.net/~stbasilkoc/">http://home.comcast.net/~stbasilkoc</A></H3> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Envelope Program for Giving</CENTER></H2> <P>Soon after you register with St. Basil's Parish, you will receivea packet of envelopes for Sunday and holy day offerings as wellas special diocesan collections. St. Basil's requires the generosityof all its parishioners in order to function as their second family.God has blessed us all in a variety of ways. God asks us in HisWord through Old Testament teachings that we<A HREF="http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/aoc1/od/stewardship/index.html">tithe</A> (which means literally one tenth). The purpose of a<AHREF="http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/aoc1/od/stewardship/index.html">tithe is to be a testimony of God's ownership of us and allthat he has blessed us with. Giving must be individualized andfrom one's heart as inspired by none other than the Holy Spirit.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>We graciously ask not only of our parishioners' treasures butalso of their time and talents as God has provided for each ofus.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>&quot;And blessed be God Most High, Who delivered your foesinto your hand. Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.&quot;Genesis 14:20</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>&quot;Woe to you Pharisees! You pay tithes on mint and rueand all the garden plants, while neglecting justice and the loveof God. These are things you should practice, without omittingthe others.&quot; Luke 11:42</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Parish Organizations and Functions</CENTER></H2> <P>&quot;Do not neglect good deeds and generosity; God is pleasedby sacrifices of that kind.&quot; - Hebrews 13:16</P> <H2><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/offices/oyya-cyo.htm">CYO(Catholic Youth Organization)</A></CENTER></H2> <P>President- Dave Donald <A HREF="mailto:ddonald@peopleshareworks.com">ddonald@peopleshareworks.com</A></P> <P>Treasurer- Dave Zarkoski 610-469-6991 <A HREF="mailto:zarkoski@us.ibm.com">zarkoski@us.ibm.com</A></P> <P>CYO has been a part of the parish for quite some time and hasyielded some impressive athletic statistics as well as shapingour youth for tomorrow's challenges. Through 1997, CYO has maintainedits organizational structure through St. Basil's Home and SchoolAssociation. However, CYO reorganized in 1998 and wants to emphasizeits availability to all youth of the parish whether attendingSt. Basil's School or CCD programs. Currently established activitiesare as follows:</P> <P>Currently established activities are as follows:</P> <P>Boy's Basketball-</P> <P>Girl's Basketball-</P> <P>Girl's Softball-</P> <P>Boy's Baseball-</P> <P>Boys Football -</P> <P>Track- C.Thomas Cable</P> <P>Girls' Field Hockey-</P> <P>Cheerleading-</P> <P>Brownies-</P> <P>Cub Scouts-</P> <P>Girl Scouts-</P> <P>Any interested youth of the parish attending either St. Basil'sSchool or CCD programs should contact Chris, or John for the nameand number of the respective leader of the various activities.</P> <P>The new organization is sure to need a lot of help making CYOactivities available to the youth of our parish while expandingto meet our growing needs. Please call us with your ideas anda helping hand.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Finance Committee</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinator: Contact the rectory for particular informationat 610-933-2110 during normal business hours.</P> <P>This important organization was established in St. Basil'sin 1984 in accordance with Canon 537 of the New Code Canon Lawand the directives of the Archbishop of Philadelphia. It is madeup of six members of the parish appointed directly by the pastor.It meets monthly.</P> <P>Each year the committee prepares a parish budget by workingwith the school, Parish Pastoral Council, and other parish organizationsto determine the income needs of the parish. This committee makesrecommendations relative to the financial affairs of the parishto the pastor. Each year, a copy of the parish budget as wellas a financial report is made available to all parishioners viathe Sunday bulletin. The fiscal year runs from July 1 to June30 of the following calendar year.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament</CENTER></H2> <P>Every Tuesday from 9:15 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. Adoration is inthe Bursich Chapel.</P> <P>Coordinator: <B>Ann Coccia 610-933-7557</B></P> <H2><CENTER><HR></CENTER></H2> <H2><CENTER>Home and School Association</CENTER></H2> <P>Coordinator:<B> Contact the <a href="mailto:school@stbasils.org">schooloffice</a> during school hours for particular information at 610-933-2453.</B></P> <P>The Home and School Association has an executive board consistingof a president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, sports director,Ways and Means, and publicity. There are 5 general meetings heldthroughout the school year for parents to meet and learn aboutthe various school activities and patterns of growth. It is alsoa time to socialize with board members, the pastor, the principal,and the teachers.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>The Home and School's main purpose is to keep open the lineof communication between all members of the school community.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>Fundraisers are sponsored by the Home and School Associationto help provide financial support for all school activities. Homeand School Association to help provide financial support for allschool activities. These activities include the sports programs,field trips, assembly programs, and improvement of the school'scomputer technology program. Many teacher needs are provided bythis group.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P>A strong school volunteer group is organized by the Home andSchool Association through its many team leaders.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER><A HREF="http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/offices/orpl.htm">EvangelizationCommittee</A></CENTER></H2> <P>Explores ways for us to deepen our awareness and participationin the Paschal Mystery of Christ as a faith community. Participatesin the Archdiocesan <B><A HREF="http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/orpl/disciple.html">Disciplesin Mission</A> </B>Program.</P> <P>Coordinator:<B> <A HREF="mailto:johnhanrahan@erols.com">JohnHanrahan</A> 610-933-7122</B></P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Parish Pastoral Council</CENTER></H2> <P>St. Basil's Parish Pastoral Council was established in 1978to serve four major purposes:</P> <P>1. To advise and serve the pastor in the administration andmanagement of the parish including liturgical, physical property,social, and educational affairs.</P> <P>2. the parish including liturgical, physical property, social,and educational affairs.</P> <P>2. To serve as a channel for the development of the Christianspirit within the parishioners.</P> <P>3. To provide for and encourage participation of the laityin the activities of the Church.</P> <P>4. To develop open communications between all associated individualsand organizations, thereby providing mutual awareness of the problemsand desires of all.</P> <P>The council is comprised of twelve members; six are electedby the parishioners who serve three-year terms, three are appointedby the pastor, and three are ex-officio including the school principal,the Director of Religious Education, and a member of the financecommittee. No elected or appointed member can serve more thantwo consecutive three-year terms.</P> <P>All registered parishioners eighteen years of age and over,or high school graduates, are eligible for membership in the counciland may vote in the election of council directors.</P> <P>The Parish Pastoral Council meets at least 6 times a year inthe rectory meeting room at times specified in the parish bulletin.All parishioners are encouraged to attend as they often have ideasand thoughts that help the council better approach the purposesfor which it was established. We hope you will become a part ofthese meetings.</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H2><CENTER>Women's Club</CENTER></H2> <P>Vice President:<B> <A HREF="mailto:sgiacomucc@aol.com">MicheleGiacomucci</A> 610-933-7789</B></P> <P>Reorganized in 1996, this group traces its roots to the foundingof the parish and has historically been a successful fundraiseras well as permitting social interaction of the women at St. Basil'sParish. Meetings are announ as permitting social interaction ofthe women at St. Basil's Parish. Meetings are announced in theparish bulletin. Please contact the coordinator for details.</P> <P>&nbsp;</P> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H4><CENTER><IMG SRC="http://www.stbasils.org/church/ani_mail.gif" ALIGN="BOTTOM"></CENTER></H4> <H4><CENTER><A HREF="mailto:stbasil@chesco.com">Contact us bye-mail</A></CENTER></H4> <H4><CENTER><A HREF="mailto:stbasil@chesco.com">stbasil@chesco.com</A></CENTER></H4> <P><HR ALIGN=LEFT></P> <H4><CENTER><IMG SRC="http://www.stbasils.org/church/crestcolor.gif" ALIGN="BOTTOM"><I><A HREF="http://www.epix.net/~ramcl/">To theTop of Rev. Robert A. McLaughlin's Web Page</A></I></CENTER></H4> <H4><A HREF="http://www.stbasils.org/church"><I>To the top ofthe St. Basil the Great RC Church Web Page</I></A></H4> </BODY> </HTML>