Holy Cross Parish News On-line

Hot new look for parish parking pads

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:26:54 -0700

On one of the hottest days of the summer so far, work crews labored long into the heat of the day to finish the striping of the parish parking lot. The two day project included re-slurry of the entire lot and the re-striping of all the parking slots. This latest initiative is all part of the new look and long range facilities maintenance plan for our 25 plus year old parish. Other related and recently completed projects included a major renovation of the church structure, painting of the three parish buildings, landscaping and dozens of similar activities.

Read all about it!

Tue, 3 Aug 2010 12:14:03 -0700

Two new posters just added to the bulletin board on the patio side of our church, focus on vocations in our Archdiocese and our parish. The poster on the right introduces us to the three newly ordained priests who are just beginning their lives of service to the people of God. The poster on the left introduces us to the members of our own Holy Cross family who have responded to the call of God and are in formation. The question marks on this poster are intended to stimulate the imagination of those who may be considering a vocation to the religious life. For more information on any of our ministries, you are encouraged to contact our parish office.

Papal Honors for two Holy Cross Parishioners

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 09:32:34 -0700

A loud and hearty Congratulations are in order for both Imelda Tjia and John Kaschalk who are about to receive the very prestigious Papal Honor “Benemerenti” or “Serving with Distinction” award from our Holy Father. It recognizes Imelda and John’s personal commitment both to the Church and the Holy Father, successor to Peter and the Vicar of Christ. Imelda and John will receive their Papal Honor at a special celebration at the Cathedral on Sunday, November 7th. Imelda is active in our parish as a sacristan, Eucharistic Minister and bereavement minister and organizes our support group for parents who have lost a child in death. John is actively involved in our parish as an usher and staffs our parish gift shop. John is also involved in Catholic Charities here in Moorpark and in the Knights of Columbus.

Mike Pavone installed as Grand Knight

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 09:39:29 -0700

Grand Knight Mike Pavone (left) is installed in his new leadership position with the Holy Cross Council of the Knights of Columbus during a formal and traditional ceremony conducted tonight following the 5:00 pm Mass. Sir Knight Giuseppe Caldoraro,(right) the District Deputy for the Knights Councils in this region, conducted the ceremony for Pavone and the new leaders of our parish council who will serve for the next Columbian year. For more information on the Holy Cross Knights of Columbus and the services they provide for our parish and our community, click here.

mmmmmmm-Good food at Knights Family Picnic

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 21:09:19 -0700

Holy Cross Knights of Columbus Council # 9969 hosted their annual family picnic and BBQ today at Arroyo Vista Park. Judging from this photo, and rave reviews from those in attendance, the food was outstanding, plentiful, and enjoyed by all. There were games for the whole family, like egg and water balloon tossing, activities for kids and adults alike and, as one would expect in Moorpark, the weather was perfect. Incoming Grand Knight Mike Pavone declared the entire day a major success and thanked all the Knights who contributed their time and talent to the event.
(click here for more photos)

Meet Fr. Paúl Velazquez - Our new Associate Pastor

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:18:44 -0700

Father Paúl Velazquez will be joining our parish family as our new Associate Paster in July and will celebrate his first mass at Holy Cross at 7:00 pm on Friday, July 2nd. Fr. Paúl was ordained in 2006 and has been Associate Pastor at St. Mariana de Paredes Parish in Pico Rivera since his ordination. He is from Tepatitlan, Jalisco, Mexico and was educated here at our local seminary, St. John’s in Camarillo.

“The Key to our Hearts” - With Love and Gratitude

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 07:41:19 -0700

Near the end of the 5:00 pm Mass tonight, Msgr. Paul Albee and Deacon Kevin Mauch presented a large framed photo montage to Holy Cross Parish Pastor Emeritus Msgr. Joseph Cosgrove. Fr. Cosgrove had just completed concelebrating the Mass marking the 50th anniversary (to the day) of his ordination to the priesthood. The photos in the collage reflected the history and growth of Holy Cross, under the leadership of Fr. Cosgrove, from the small “Mission” chapel to the current church, parish center and administration building. Imbedded in the montage was a large brass key and the words “The Key to our Hearts” and an expression of the love and gratitude of the Holy Cross community to Msgr. Cosgrove. He can also be seen wearing a very special stole designed for him which included a silver cross and the crown of thorns. The stole had also been presented to him during the Mass. Following mass a reception was held in the Cosgrove Center were he received additional gifts and recognition from the City of Moorpark, the Knights of Columbus and Catholic Charities, not to mention hundreds of hugs and handshakes from friends, family, parishioners and civic leaders. (click here for photos)

Via con Dios Fr. Joe.

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 12:26:24 -0700

Fr. Joseph Nguyen, Holy Cross Associate Paster received hundreds of hugs and handshakes from parishioners following all the masses this weekend as he prepared to move to his next assignment after four years ministering to the Catholic families of Moorpark. (click for more photos).
In farewell remarks after each Mass, Msgr. Paul Albee thanked Fr. Joe for his love and commitment to the people of Holy Cross. He was also recognized for his boundless energy and ready smile which were hallmarks of his service at Holy Cross. Msgr Albee presented Fr. Joe with a white memorial stole which had a silver cross and a crown of thorns embroidered on it. Fr. Joe in turn presented the parish a large crucifix in honor of our parish name. Fr. Joe is moving to Our Lady of the Assumption parish in Clairmont where he will serve as Associate Pastor

Antonio Diaz - Seminary Bound

Sun, 6 Jun 2010 14:38:33 -0700

Antonio Diaz, Holy Cross Parishioner and Moorpark High School graduating senior has answered the call of God to enter the priestly life. Over the Summer Antonio will move to the Juan Diego House of Formation in Gardena, CA where he will begin a nine year journey through college and the seminary with the goal of being ordained a Catholic Priest for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Antonio, the first seminarian from Holy Cross, will begin his formal education at El Camino College in Torrance, then move on to CalState Dominguez Hills where he will earn a degree in Philosophy. Following graduation from CSDH, he will enter St. John’s Seminary in Camarillo where he will major in Theology and upon graduation he will be ordained a priest.  Since his early childhood he has felt a calling to become a priest so that he can “spread the Good News to everyone like Jesus did with obedience to his Father. As Jesus offered His life to others, I want to offer my life so others can have life through the Sacraments.” Antonio’s parents are absolutely delighted with his decision and feel truly blessed that their son will dedicate his life to serve the people of God. For more information on Antonio’s journey of faith, you are invited to read his story at www.sbvocations.org. Click on the Vocation Story link.

Mike Pavone Elected Grand Knight

Thu, 3 Jun 2010 21:15:43 -0700

Members of the Holy Cross Council of the Knights of Columbus have elected Mike Pavone as their Grand Knight for the 2010/2011 Columbian Year which begins in July 2010. Mike and his wife Susan have been members of Holy Cross parish since moving to Moorpark 17 years ago. They have one son Kevin, who will graduate from Moorpark High School in June 2010. The installation ceremony for Mike and a full slate of officers is pending.

3rd Annual Children’s Memorial Mass

Thu, 3 Jun 2010 15:24:06 -0700

The Holy Cross Bereaved Parents Support Group hosted the third annual Children’s Memorial Mass tonight with a special remembrance for 85 children. During the mass, the names of the children were read as a member of each family placed a long-stemmed flower for their child in vases at the foot of the altar. Families from all our local parishes were invited to attend and add their child’s name to the list of those remembered. This annual event which is held each year between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day was organized and coordinated by our parish Bereavement Ministry and featured a reception following the mass in the Parish Office dining room.

Anthony Ohler and Jamie Lane Awarded Scholarships

Sun, 9 May 2010 09:26:43 -0700

Anthony Ohler (center) and Jamie Lane (2nd from right) receive congratulations from Holy Cross Pastor, Msgr Paul Albee (right) and Deacon Kevin Mauch (left) on their being awarded the very prestigious John Holmze Scholarships by the Holy Cross Knights of Columbus. The awards were presented following the 9:00 am Mass today by Mr. Michael Mars (2nd from left), the chairman of the Knights Scholarship committee. Both the Lane and Ohler families were on hand for the ceremony which was a surprise to both 18 year old Moorpark High school seniors. Those attending the mass applauded and congratulated the two top students when their names were announced by Mars.
Jamie Lane plans to attend San Diego State University next year and major in Psychology and Biology. Her long term goal is to earn a degree in Psychology. Anthony Ohler plans to attend Moorpark Community College majoring in Criminal Law and aspires to a career as a Lawyer. (click here for additional photos)

National Day of Prayer observed at Holy Cross

Thu, 6 May 2010 12:16:02 -0700

Carmen Jerome, Michele Edelstein and Gwen Smith (left to right) were the red, white and blue organizers behind our parish celebration of the 58th National Day of Prayer. The Holy Cross observance began with Mass celebrated by Fr. Joseph Nguyen, assisted by Deacon Trino Andrade followed by a reception featuring red, white and blue decorations and plenty of outstanding food served in Cosgrove Center.

First Holy Communion

Sat, 1 May 2010 12:47:11 -0700

Fr. Joseph Nguyen congratulates Joseph Coulter on the occasion of his First Holy Communion. CCD students have been in training for two years in preparation for this big day. Fr. Joe gave a wonderful and targeted homily welcoming the communicants to the Lord’s table and reminding them of the significance and importance of receiving this special sacrament.

Holy Cross Knights of Columbus Initiative

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 16:57:36 -0700

Several members of the Holy Cross Council # 9969 of the Knights of Columbus started work today adding a room and several other enhancements to the Holy Cross Chapel in downtown Moorpark. The Chapel, which was built in the 1920’s is used regularly for Knights meetings, The Lord’s Table dinners, and a number of other activities related to our parish life and community outreach. This latest renovation is being funded entirely by our parish Knights who are also doing most of the work themselves.

Holy Thursday - Washing of Feet

Thu, 1 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0700

And Jesus said “Unless I wash you, you will have no inheritance with me.” Msgr. Paul Albee carries on the tradition of washing the feet which started with Jesus before the “Last Supper” when He washed the feet of his disciples. During the Mass on Holy Thursday, Msgr Albee and Fr. Joe Nguyen washed the feet of twelve Holy Cross parishoners. Jesus washed the feet of His twelve Apostles to demonstrate His love for them in a most dramatic way.

Bible Study Group reaches out to our Jewish Sisters

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:07:18 -0700

Beverly Heyer (left) welcomes Miriam Rubinstein to the Holy Cross Monday Morning Women’s Bible Study group. Mrs. Rubinstein, the wife of Rabbi Morris Rubinstein spoke to the members about the “Origins and Rituals of Sabbath and Havdala.” Mrs. Rubinstein and her husband have been very popular presenters in the annual University Series of presentations on our faith. The Women’s Bible Study group has been meeting weekly for over 15 years. They invite all ladies who are interested in learning more about the bible and our faith to join them every Monday morning at 9:30 in the parish library. For more information, please call Deacon Jerry or Beverly Heyer. (click here for photos by Anita)

Flying Irish feet about to launch

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 21:08:43 -0800

Two Irish dancers prepare to kick up their heels at the annual Holy Cross Saint Patrick’s Dinner. Hosted by our parish Knights of Columbus Council, the event was a major success again this year and completely sold out. The meal featured the traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage, vegies and plenty of cake and ice cream for desert. Patrick Leyden accompanied by family and friends provided tremendous Irish entertainment in the form of sing-alongs, tall tales and lots of laughs. Even our Pastor, Msgr. Paul Albee was able to find a grand old Irish tale to enhance the benediction before dinner was served. Past Grand Knight Mike Ohler, the Dinner Chairman, said this year was one of the best and liveliest St. Patrick’s events in the history of Holy Cross. “A grand time was had by one and all,” said Ohler. (Click here for photos)

Lenten Friday Fish Fry is really cooking again

Fri, 5 Mar 2010 20:26:50 -0800

Once again our Parish Fish Fry is off to a great start. These Lenten meals are prepared and served by the Holy Cross Knights of Columbus and all funds raised are used to support local charities, parish projects and events. The dinners are served from 5 to 7 pm every Friday during Lent with the exception of Good Friday. There are a variety of meal selections to choose from and they can be eaten in the Cosgrove Center or taken home. For more information, please check out the parish bulletin. (Photos from March 5th dinner)

Ashes for everybody - all ages welcome

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:10:44 -0800

Holy Cross Pastor, Msgr. Paul Albee and Deacon Kevin Mauch distribute ashes to parishioners of all ages today. With the words “Turn away from sin - Stay faithful to the Gospel” ashes were applied to the foreheads of all who attended one of the five services on this first day of Lent 2010. As Catholics, the ashes remind us to take a good hard look at our lives and to repent for any and all sins we may have committed. Fr. Joseph Nguyen, Deacons Jerry Heyer, Trino Andrade and several lay ministers also assisted in distributing the ashes. (click for more photos)

Congratulations Holy Cross Honorees

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 15:20:01 -0800

Filomena Shaw and John Cleary (2nd and 3rd from Left) of Holy Cross Parish were honored last night at the Annual Ventura County Catholic Charities Awards banquet held at Padre Serra Parish Hall. On hand to salute and pay tribute to Filomena and John were Bishop Thomas Curry, Msgr. Paul Albee , Fr. Joseph Nguyen and almost 350 other religious, civic and community leaders.

Filomena was recognized for her work with our CCD program, for organizing our Annual Boutique in 1984, her leadership and support of this major fundraiser for the past 25 years; for her commitment to numerous church workshops, committees and activities and her service as a Eucharistic Minister.

John was honored for his three decades of service to a number of parish activities ranging from his work on the building fund committee which built the the Parish Center, his leadership and commitment to the Knights of Columbus, his work in our Annual Health Fair, as a lector, sacristan and Eucharistic Minister, his involvement with our youth programs and the list goes on and on.
(Click here for more photos)

These very prestigious honors are presented at the Annual Catholic Charities Awards Banquet held each year to salute and recognize exceptionally deserving volunteers from throughout Ventura County.

PAST HONOREES FROM HOLY CROSS:

2002 Ruben Castro and Ron O’Neill
2003 Mary Ann Valerio; and Deacon Jerry and Beverly Hyer
2004 Jerry and Noma Roche; and Kathy and John O’Green
2005 Maria Hinojsa and Elaine McGoveron
2006 Maria Therese Castsro and Henry Vidal
2007 Imelda Tjia and Anita Mauch
2008 Ralphine Lintz and John Moran

Blood Drive a Major Success

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0800

This report from Past Grand Knight, Mike Ohler: Today’s blood drive was a collaborative effort between United Blood Services, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, The Knights of Columbus (#9969 Holy Cross Parish), Holy Cross Catholic Church and Team Kaiden. These fantastic people worked tirelessly from 6AM to late in the day to process the incredible turnout of donors from the community. Thanks to each and every one of you who participated for making the blood drive such a success.

And now for the results of the blood drive:
• 168 people came today to donate - some were deferred due to high blood pressure, illness, meds, etc., but the majority were able to donate.

• We ended up collecting a total of 156 units: 101 units for CHLA (that will support 300-400 kids) and 55 units for United Blood Services of Ventura County (these units will support kids and adults alike). THANK YOU to both donors and blood drive teams alike on this incredible achievement!!!

■ For those curious about the outcome of our team challenge, today’s drive collected 49 more units that last time!!! The November 2009 drive collected 107 units total: 80 units for CHLA and 27 units for UBS.

Episcopal Vicar visits Holy Cross

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 15:09:03 -0800

Bishop Thomas Curry, Episcopal Vicar for the Santa Barbara Pastoral Region (SBPR) of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles visited Holy Cross to confer the Sacrament of Confirmation on 19 members of our Parish Community (see related story/photo below). During his visit he made time to meet many of those in attendance. Here he chats with Mary Linda Fleming whose husband Dennis is a member of the SBPR Deacon Training Program and, along with five other Holy Cross men expect to be ordained Permanent Deacons in 2011.

19 Parish Faithful Confirmed

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 14:59:47 -0800

Bishop Thomas Curry visited Holy Cross Parish today to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation to 19 Adult members of our faith community, pictured here with their sponsors. Msgr. Paul Albee and Fr. Joseph Nguyen concelebrated the very special Mass with Bishop Curry. Deacons Jerry Heyer, Trino Andrade and Kevin Mauch assisted in the celebration. Congratulations to all our newly Confirmed men and women and their sponsors.

Something special for the little one’s

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0800

Bishop Thomas Curry and Deacon Jerry Heyer distribute special bulletins to the children who are six years old and younger who attended the 10:30 Mass today. See related stories above for more on Bishop Curry’s visit to Holy Cross.