MASS TIMES:

Saturday:  4pm

Sunday:  8am (in French), 9:30 am, 11am

Holy Days:
8am & 7pm

Confessions:
2:30pm on Saturdays,
in the Cry Room.

“We fly to your protection, O Holy Mother of God.”

In the present tragic situation, when the whole world is prey to suffering and anxiety, we fly to you, Mother of God and our mother, and seek refuge under your protection.

Virgin Mary, turn your merciful eyes toward us amid this coronavirus pandemic. Comfort those who are distraught and mourn their loved ones who have died, and at times are buried in a way that grieves them deeply. Be close to those who are concerned for their loved ones who are sick and who, in order to prevent the spread of the disease, cannot be close to them. Fill with hope those who are troubled by the uncertainty of the future and the consequences for the economy and employment.

Mother of God and our Mother, pray for us to God, the father of mercies, that this great suffering may end and that hope and peace may dawn anew. Plead with your divine Son, as you did at Cana, so that the families of the sick and the victims be comforted, and their hearts be opened to confidence and trust.

Protect those doctors, nurses, health workers and volunteers who are on the frontline of this emergency, and are risking their lives to save others. Support their heroic effort and grant them strength, generosity and continued health.

Be close to those who assist the sick night and day, and to priests who, in their pastoral concern and fidelity to the Gospel, are trying to help and support everyone.

Blessed Virgin, illumine the minds of men and women engaged in scientific research, that they may find effective solutions to overcome this virus.

Support national leaders, that with wisdom, solicitude and generosity they may come to the aid of those lacking the basic necessities of life and may devise social and economic solutions inspired by farsightedness and solidarity.

Mary Most Holy, stir our consciences, so that the enormous funds invested in developing and stockpiling arms will instead be spent on promoting effective research on how to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

Beloved Mother, help us realize that we are all members of one great family and to recognize the bond that unites us, so that, in a spirit of fraternity and solidarity, we can help to alleviate countless situations of poverty and need. Make us strong in faith, persevering in service, constant in prayer.

Mary, Consolation of the afflicted, embrace all your children in distress and pray that God will stretch out his all-powerful hand and free us from this terrible pandemic, so that life can serenely resume its normal course.

To you, who shine on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope, do we entrust ourselves, O Clement, O Loving, O Sweet Virgin Mary. Amen.

Click here for special meditations on the decades of the Rosary to be said during the Covid-19 pandemic.

What did you do before entering the seminary?
I was a police officer.

When did you first think that God might be calling you to be a priest?
In hindsight, I feel that I was drawn to the priesthood during a particular Easter Vigil when I was still a child, possibly at the age of 8 or 9. However, I was unable to adequately articulate this desire until I was in high school.

What has been the most challenging part of being a seminarian?
At times, balancing a busy schedule can be difficult but it also enables me to better appreciate the time that I have off.

What has been the most rewarding part?
Seminary provides a unique atmosphere which has allowed me to deepen my relationship with Christ and be better formed as a Catholic man intending to serve the people of God.
 

What advice would you give a man considering a vocation to the priesthood?
Discernment is a process and that takes time. Allowing oneself to be led by the Holy Spirit, listening to the Lord in prayer, and frequently receiving the sacraments is essential. I would also encourage him to become acquainted with his pastor and get involved at his local parish.

Please pray for David Gagnon and for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. You can send a personal note or card to David at the rectory:
St. Anthony Parish
172 Belmont Street
Manchester NH  03103
 

It is the most basic desire within the human heart to search for lasting peace and happiness.  In response to this desire Jesus says: “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt 11:28-30).  If we turn to Jesus without hesitations or reservations He will give us that “peace that surpasses all understanding” (Phil 4:7), the peace we desire.

St. Anthony of Padua Parish, where the French tradition will always be part of the fabric of our community, is wholly committed to bringing Christ to whoever seeks Him.  This happens primarily in the sacraments, but also in fellowship, in Scripture studies, and other group meetings.  Join us as we throw open the doors to Christ and allow Him to “give us rest.”

Very Rev. Fr. Richard Dion, V.F., Pastor