Saint Mary of the Annunciation Parish, Melrose

09/14/2026

Today is the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, a reminder that Jesus Christ truly died for our sins on the cross nearly 2,000 years ago. So what better way to spend this feast day than by reflecting upon some of the most compelling artistic depictions of the cross in history? Watch today's video, and let Fr Shawn Allen know what you learned!

09/14/2026

Join us in praying for Pope Leo XIV today on his birthday!
⁣

09/13/2026

Happy World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly!
⁣
Take time today to reach out to or visit a grandparent, an older loved one, or an elderly neighbor. For as Pope Leo said, “Visiting an elderly person is a way of encountering Jesus, who frees us from indifference and loneliness.”
⁣

09/13/2026

It's easy to feel self-righteous when others mess up. Like their offense against us is unforgivable. But in today's Gospel, Jesus puts us in our place.
⁣
Think about it. We have sinned against God--our creator and redeemer, who loves us perfectly and made us out of nothing. There is no greater offense! And yet, God forgives our sins. He is merciful, even though we don't deserve it in the least.
⁣
If that's how God loves us, how do we love those who have wronged us? Are we quick to forgive? Or do we hold it over them, like the wicked servant? Good things to ponder today, St Mary's family. Let's ask God to help us forgive more freely, just as he has forgiven us.

09/12/2026

What's in a name? A good question to ask today on the feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary.
⁣
For Catholics, names aren't just about individuality, but about connecting us to the communion of saints. Classics like Paul, Joseph, Theresa and--yes--Mary are great, but did you know there's a whole array of options available? With that in mind, here are some unique Catholic names to consider.
⁣
BOYS:
Crispin - a 3rd-century martyr and the patron of cobblers and leather workers.
Augustine - an all-time-great theologian and Pope Leo XIV's favorite saint!
Fulton - pays homage to the great American evangelist Fulton Sheen, who's about to be beatified!
⁣
GIRLS:
Eulalia - a brave martyr from Roman times and such a lyrical name!
Colette - vintage appeal, with ties to a humble religious sister and miracle worker!
Seraphina - a heavenly name inspired by the highest-ranking angels.
⁣
Of course, there are so many more. Who knows, maybe one of these will inspire the names of some future St Mary's babies!

09/11/2026

09/11/2026

Today marks 25 years since one of the worst tragedies to ever happen on American soil: the terrorist attacks of 9/11. 2,977 victims died in the attacks, and we lift them and all who were affected by these senseless acts of violence up in prayer.
⁣
Part of working to prevent tragedies like this from occurring again is remembering what that painful, horrific day was like. So St Mary's family, we want to provide a space for you to share: where were you on 9/11? How did you learn about the attacks, and how did they impact you? Feel free to share in the comments below.

09/11/2026

May God bring peace to those who lost loved ones 25 years ago, and may He bring peace to the whole world, through the growing presence of His Son Jesus Christ in our lives.
⁣

09/10/2026

Pope Leo XIV loves baseball. Could he canonize the sport's patron saint?
⁣
There's someone at the top of the order for such a designation: Blessed Michael McGivney. Not only was the Connecticut priest the founder of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a big promoter of baseball--and a pretty good player himself.
⁣
It's National Little League month, so follow the link for some timely reading on the subject! And Bl. Michael McGivney, pray for all of our baseball players here at St Mary's!

09/10/2026

Our SEPTEMBER Collection takes place the weekend of September 12 & 13!
Note the weekend change due to the Holiday!

Donation suggestions for the SEPTEMBER COLLECTION are plastic wrap, aluminum foil, olive oil (17 oz or less), ground coffee (12 oz or less), instant coffee (8 oz or less), peanut butter crackers

Please remember to check expiration dates as any item that is expired must be discarded. Thank you again!