The Sanctuary Lamp may be lit in loving memory of, or in honor of someone. If you are interested, please contact the Parish Office. The cost to sponsor for one week is $10.

When a priest celebrates the Eucharist, he applies the graces of that Mass to whatever intention has been requested- whether for  a person living or deceased, in thanksgiving, or for a special need. Mass intentions allow the faithful to unite their prayers with the sacrifice of the Eucharist, offering the graces of the Mass for a particular need. People commonly request intentions for the deceased, entrusting loved ones to God’s mercy; for the living, especially those facing illness or difficulty; in thanksgiving for blessings received; or for private intentions held quietly in the heart. 

The Mass intention stipend is often misunderstood. It is important to be clear: you are not purchasing a Mass. The Holy Mass is Christ’s own sacrifice made present—its value is infinite and cannot be bought or paid for.

A stipend is simply a voluntary offering. It serves three purposes:

1. It supports the priest who celebrates the Mass.
2. It contributes to the parish’s ordinary operating needs.
3. It expresses a small personal sacrifice, uniting your offering to the sacrifice of the Mass itself.

The stipend amount is set by each diocese. In the United States it typically ranges from $10–$20. Our diocese has established $20 per Mass intention. This offering is never a requirement for having a Mass celebrated. If the stipend presents a hardship, please speak with the parish—we will always honor your intention.

Canon Law (the Church's legal code) carefully regulates stipends to protect the sacred nature of the Mass. A priest may only retain one stipend per day, even if he celebrates multiple Masses. This prevents any appearance of commercializing the Eucharist.

If you are interested in requesting a Mass intention, please contact the Parish Office.