fifth sunday of easter may 6, 2012 · 2012-05-06 · marilyn demeo* – database coordinator...

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER MAY 6, 2012

*indicates part-time staff

Nick Furibondo 898.5224 Richard Strassburger 499.5676

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 e-mail: [email protected] 630 355-8980 (Main Office) Visit us on the internet at www.stapostle.org 630 305-6318 (Religious Education) 630 355-0521 (Facsimilie)

Parish Staff Rev. Joel Fortier – Pastor, [email protected] Rev. Rodolphe Arty, Associate Pastor, x 103, [email protected] Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm. – Weekend Associate, [email protected] Fr. Pat Brennan, Weekend Associate, [email protected] Rev. Mr. Chuck Lane – Deacon, x220, [email protected] Rev. Mr. Jim Breen – Deacon, 630.357.4853, [email protected] Rev. Mr. Larry Kearney – Deacon, x225, [email protected] Rev. Mr. Michael Barrett – Deacon , x220, [email protected] Liturgy Kate Cuddy – Director of Music and Liturgy, x112, [email protected] Jessi Allured – Asst. Director of Music and Liturgy, x111, [email protected] Lori Culberson – Liturgy Coordinator, x120, [email protected] Theresa Sheliga* – Sacristan Coordinator, x116 Faith Formation Sandy Renehan, Principal at All Saints Catholic Academy 630.961.6125 Chari Rosales – Director of Adult Education & RCIA x138, [email protected] Peggy Goralski – Youth Ministry, x123, [email protected] Brett Adams – Coordinator of Middle School & High School Faith Formation, x117, badams @stapostle.org Patti Dougherty – Director of Religious Education, x109, [email protected] Nancy Cirmo – Religious Education Assistant, x118, [email protected] Outreach and Social Justice Michael Ryder – Director of Outreach & Social Justice, x121, [email protected] Anne Schultz – OSJ Partner, x113, [email protected] Sally Meno* – OSJ Financial, x137, [email protected] Pastoral Care Jan Olah – Director of Pastoral Care, x124 Felicia Lawlor*, M.S., R.N. – Faith Community Nurse, x104, [email protected] Rose Grumbine*, R.N., – Faith Community Nurse, x140, [email protected] Administration Janet Simmons – Finance/Business Officer, x106, [email protected] Diane McQueen – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x101, [email protected] Kathy Ferguson – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x100, [email protected] Marge Coronado - Administration and R.E. Asst, x219, [email protected] Marilyn DeMeo* – Database Coordinator (T/Th), x107, [email protected] Angie Tuttle – Bulletin and Web Editor, Liturgy Asst, x110, [email protected] Bob Hartmann Facility Manager, x133, [email protected] Pastoral Leadership Community Christine Berta 579.4294 Pam Foster 699.3044 Charles Haydon 369.2262

Commission Facilitators Worship Kate Cuddy 355.8980 Parish Life Faith Formation Chris Baker 548.1733 Administration Charles Haydon 369.2262 Service Carol Healy 961.0942

Liturgy Schedule Daily (Monday — Friday) Communion Service — 6:30 a.m. Rosary — 8:10 a.m. Mass — 8:30 a.m. (Saturday) Mass — 8:30 a.m.

Weekend Saturday Vigil — 4:30 p.m. Sunday — 8:00, 9:30, 11:15 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every first Friday, 9:00 — 9:30 a.m.

Sacrament of Reconciliation Reconciliation is available Saturday, 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., or after the 4:30 p.m. Mass in the Reconciliation Room of the Chapel. Fr. Joel is available during the week by appointment. Communal Penance services are held occasionally throughout the year. Sick and Home Bound Call the Church Office to receive prayer/Eucharist from a priest, deacon or Minister of Care. Baptism Baptisms are usually celebrated 2-3 Sundays each month at a 12:30 p.m. service. On selected dates, Baptisms are celebrated at weekend Masses. Parents are required to attend an awareness and renewal evening prior to the Baptism. Call the Church Office a few months in advance to make arrangements. Matrimony A couple planning on being married at St. Thomas should contact the church six months in advance. One year is preferred. Either the bride or groom, or their parents, must be a registered parishioner for at least three months prior to calling to set a date. Religious Education Call the 630.305.6318 to register. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) Any person wanting to learn more about the Catholic Faith, or to join our Catholic community should call the church at 630.355.8980. Counseling Service Call Samaritan Interfaith 630.357.2456 or Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 630.355.8980 x 124. Sunday Nursery Nursery care is available for your child age one (walking) to four at the 9 & 10:45 a.m. Mass. For more information call the church office.

This Sunday our readings speak very much of the connec-tivity of our lives. Our lives are integrally connected. God is the ground of our being. We can name the energy that con-nects us all as the cosmic Risen Christ. As we live in the Spirit which flows through us as sap through a vine we pro-duce good fruit. That is why Christ tells us in the gospel today, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He prunes the branches that do not bear fruit, so that the vine may bear more fruit.”

I was asked one time to reflect on this image of the vine, and the one word that emerged for me was “integral”. It has always been a sense for me that spirituality is about integrating my life, in all its physical and psychological aspects, with the Spirit of God. The vine is a very integral thing. I see the fruit of the Spirit already mani-fest in my life. We are told today in the gos-

pel that if we live in Christ, the integration of our lives will happen through a gradual process of growth that sometimes involves pruning. I find that to be true in my life, and in our lives as a parish. I am continually trying to integrate all the aspects of my life, and the more I seek truth and find it in Christ, the more my life is integrated; all aspects of my life. It is a wonderful thing. As we look forward to celebrating mothers next week, we can note how this organic and integral image certainly re-flects our relationship with our mothers. My mother was a huge influence in integrating my life with Christ. All our relationships can be integrated in this way. Christ said “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” And we hear today, “apart from me you can do nothing.” We can have confidence in the integrative process of life, not so much because of our own efforts but because Christ lives in us and we in Christ, by the power of the Spirit we have been given. I certainly can testify to that as I approach my retirement. I know that any fruit that has been born in my life is because of Christ. I can only take credit for my mistakes and weak-nesses. I give Christ all the credit for any success I may have had otherwise, despite myself! I say that with a chuckle in my heart because I know how true it is. And I give Glory to God because of it. God’s Blessings to all,

Welcome Guests and Visitors!

We’re so glad you’re here and invite you to walk the path of faith with us. Our goal is to provide a spiritual home where all are welcome, where the healing, rec-onciling, liberating love of God flows through us to all people. We believe the church is the sacrament of God’s saving presence in the world.

Would you like to become a Parishioner? Join us in the gym for Welcome Sunday anytime between 9:00 and 11:15 on: Sunday, May 20

Dear Friends,

“We can

have confidence in the integrative process of life.”

David Haas/Lori True Concert ................Page 4 Fr. Joel’s Farewell Weekend...................Page 7 St. Thomas Reception Needed.............Page 13

Fifth Sunday of Easter May 6, 2012

Let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth.

— 1 John 3:18

May 6, 2012 —

Worship Commission—Liturgy & Music

Presider’s Schedule May 12/13

Saturday 4:30 pm, Fr. Dof Arty (Mary Statue Blessing after Mass)

Sunday 8:00 am, Fr. Joel Fortier 9:30 am, Fr. Bob Colaresi 11:15 am, Fr. Joel Fortier 6:00 pm, Fr. Dof Arty

Schedule is subject to change. NOTE: The last 6:00 Mass for this season will be MAY 20 and will resume next fall!

May Crowning and Blessing of the Mary Statue

Saturday, May 12 Following the 4:30 Mass Mary’s W.A.Y dinner to follow. See information on page 6.

Fr. Joel’s Farewell Weekend: June 2/3

Save the weekend of June 2/3 to celebrate with Fr. Joel as he says farewell to St. Thomas and enters into retirement. There are many opportunities for you to be involved. See page 7 for details!

Today’s Readings First Reading — The church was being built up, and grew in numbers (Acts 9:26-31). Psalm — I will praise you, Lord, in the assembly of your people (Psalm 22). Second Reading — Let us love not in word or speech, but in deed and truth (1 John 3:18-24). Gospel — Remain in me, as I remain in you. I am the vine, you are the branches (John 15:1-8). The English translation of the Psalm Responses from the Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

Readings for the Week Mon: Acts 14:5-18; Jn 14:21-26 Tues: Acts 14:19-28; Jn 14:27-31a Wed: Acts 15:1-6; Jn 15:1-8 Thurs: Acts 15:7-21; Jn 15:9-11 Fri: Acts 15:22-31; Jn 15:12-17 Sat: Acts 16:1-10; Jn 15:18-21 Sun: Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48; Ps 98; 1 Jn 4:7-10 or 1 Jn 4:11-16; Jn 15:9-17 or Jn 17:11b-19

Mother’s Day Talks Plan to hear some inspiring Mother’s Day talks at all masses next week. The scheduled speakers are: 4:30 p.m. Michelle Krzmarzick 8:00 a.m. Diane McQueen 9:30 a.m. Rosemary Peebles 11:15 a.m. Ann Kvietkus 6:00 p.m. Lori Duggan

— May 6, 2012

Pray For Our Parish

Mass Intentions Monday, May 7, 2012 8:30 †Deacon Will Worden, by Bill & Shirley Mann Tuesday, May 8, 2012 8:30 Special Intention for Isabella Chew’s Birthday, by The Chew Family Wednesday, May 9, 2012 8:30 †James Cliff, by Phyllis Cliff †Barb Diedrich, by Tom Saturday, May 12, 2012 4:30 †John Vesper, by Mark Vesper †James & Rita Armstrong, by Bob, Terri & Tony Sunday, May 13, 2012 8:00 †Kyle Coggins, by Gerry & Jackie Plourde †The Hanscom Family, by Gerry & Jackie Plourde 9:30 †Lina Arquilla, by The Martino Family †Ben Coulter, by Mom 11:15 For the People of St. Thomas 6:00 †Miriam Rodgers, by Linda Mitchell †Owen Deneen, by Gerry Deneen SR Joel Curry

SR Jeffrey Bates

Sgt. Aaron Simms Cpt. Matthew Haselhorst PFC Sean Wesley Sgt. William Stuart army

Please Pray for our Men and Women Serving in the Military Our parish community would like to recognize and remember the following individuals in prayer:

U.S. Air Force Lt. Joseph Zito Staff Sgt. Brooke Sica Airman Maxwell Dempsey

Air Force National Guard Senior Airman Jacob Brancaleon

U.S. Army PFC Sam Parrillo SPC James Abbott Richard Hill Lt. Alanna Casey Warrant Officer Aviation Kyle Zimmerman

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Kevin Martin Lance Corporal Aaron Murphy Lance Corporal Oliver Buckley Captain Brad Rothman Lt. Colin Miller-Ratcliffes

U.S. Navy AT3 Amanda Schlarman Ensign Jason Coons

U.S. Coast Guard

If you would like to have a serviceman or woman included in the Military prayer list in the bulletin, call the parish office 630.355.8980.

for the sick… Joell Loutsis, wife of Matt Elenora Reichert, sister of Agnes Flynn Kay Grimm, grandmother of Julee Gard Maureen McNicholas, daughter of Mike and Kathryn Barrett Anne Maree Culberson, daughter in-law of Van & Lori Ron Angelotti, husband of Carol Bill Sonn, friend of Lugenia Thomas for the deceased… Don Zick, husband of Susan, father of Maddie Tom Jakubowski, husband of Jeanne Mary T. Mills, mother of Chari Rosales Cecelia Chrabas, mother of Nancy Cirmo Ellen Hendricks, aunt of Tricia Makau

Christ Jesus, We have been told, And we have heard your voice Of unconditional love over and over. What an amazing gift you give to us, To love us so totally. Free us from the limitations That keep us from loving your people With the same sense of abandon. Come now, And instill in us the voice And life That will be a worthy expression of love To all those in our lives, Unyielding, Unconditional. Amen. D. Haas

May 6, 2012 —

Parish Picnic August 26 It is time to plan the St. Thomas Parish Picnic scheduled for the afternoon of Sunday, August 26! Once a team is put together, a planning meeting will be scheduled. Contact Patti Dougherty 630.355.8980 ext.109 or [email protected]. If we each take a small piece, a lot can happen!

Faith and Formation Commission– Adult

One of the documents that came out of the Vati-can II Ecumenical Council was called the Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity. This decree declared that laypeople possess the “right and duty to be apos-tles.” The Apostles were those individuals who were “sent” to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. For-tunately for us, there have been Christians in every generation since the time of Christ who’ve been willing to assume their apostolic responsibility. But we are all called to be apostles. Our mission is the same as the mission of the Church, which is to take Christ into the world where we work and play and live. This of course requires that we know Christ and His teachings and that we are actively seeking His Kingdom. Christ gave the Church the responsibility of being a light to the world and a model of His Law of Love. As Christians, we are members of the Church which is the Body of Christ. Our Catholic Church offers us some basic standards to help guide us toward moral and holy lives. These guidelines are called the “precepts of the Church.” They are meant to reflect “the very necessary minimum” efforts we need to give in order to grow in our love of God and each other. Over the next several weeks, this column will cover seven precepts of the Church, which are the basic responsibilities of all Catholic Christians. Per-haps it’s time for a check-up to see how we’re doing. Stay tuned!

C.A.R.E. CORNER

MEN’S ANNUAL BRATS NIGHT Save the Date: Friday, May 18 6:00 p.m. Brats and “trimmings” Speaker: Father Joel Tickets available ($10) the weekends of May 6 and May 13

Mary’s W.A.Y. Ministry Hosts Dinner — Saturday, May 12, 6:00 p.m. St. Thomas the Apostle Mary’s W.A.Y. Ministry invites you to dinner on Saturday, May 12, following the St. Thomas May Crowning Mass. Come to the Lighthouse at 6:00 to share food, fellowship and a fabulous speaker! All are welcome to enjoy dinner, fellowship and listen to an enthusiastic speaker, Sarah Jarzembowski, speaking on Mary, our Mother. Sarah is the Director of Youth Ministy at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mokena, IL. She is also a life coach, a motivational speaker, a young adult minister and a consultant on health and spirituality. Sarah has worked in youth ministry for 11 years and has presented at parishes, conferences, retreats and workshops locally and nationally. You won’t want to miss her engaging witness! Chicken, salad and drinks will be provided — please bring a side dish or dessert to share! Pick up a flyer in the Gathering to RSVP or call the Religious Education Office.

Mary’s W.A.Y. – Women Answering Yes!

— May 6, 2012

SPIRIT

john angotti in concert friday, june 1, 7:30 pm

May 6, 2012 —

? Families: Take some time to discuss and reflect on the readings of the week.

Question of the Week... When are you good fruit on Jesus’ vine?

Faith and Formation Commission– Youth Registration for Fall Religious Education Classes (Grades Pre–K – 8th) Parishioners currently registered in the St. Thomas Religious Education program will receive a registration packet in the mail early June. If you are new to the program, please register as a parishioner at St. Thomas on Welcome Sunday, May 20, then in June, pick up a registration packet from the Faith Formation / Religious Education Of-fice. The registration fee is discounted in June, with an increase of fees July 1. Packets will also be available in June in the Gathering Area, on Welcome Sundays or on line at www.stapostle.org. Contact the Reli-gious Education / Faith Formation Office for assistance at 630.305.6318 or email Patti Dougherty, [email protected].

Scripture Safari, Vacation Bible School Scripture Safari will be held during June this summer, June 25 through 29. Scripture Safari is for parishioners entering Kinder-garten through 4th grade. Youth entering 5th grade or older, may sign up to help at Scripture Safari. All forms, for youth and adult helpers, and for attendees, will be available in the Gathering Area or the Religious Education Office starting the weekend of April 14/15. Forms are taken on a first-come, first-served basis until openings are filled. Non-parishioners will have the opportunity to sign up after May 16 where there are openings. Final deadline Sunday, May 20. Come Hungry on May 6... Pancakes after Mass!

St. Thomas the Apostle’s teens are going on mission this summer and are hosting a fundraiser next Sunday. There will be a pancake breakfast May 6 after the 8:00, 9:30 and 11:15 a.m. masses. Enjoy delicious pancakes, scrumptious sausage, orange juice, fruit, and coffee.

Yum…yum! A free-will offering will be accepted at the door before or after your tasty meal. All of the proceeds will help purchase supplies and cover expenses for youth missions. Plan on attending and getting to know your St. Thomas family better at the table.

Many Help Prepare for First Eucharist The Faith Formation/Religious Education Department would like to extend their heartfelt “Thank you” in appreciation to those who have served with the formation of our children’s faith and, especially those who helped with this celebration of the Sacrament of First Eucharist.

Gratitude is extended to Kate Cuddy, our Liturgy & Music Director; Jess Allured, Assistant Director; our choirs and musicians for their beautiful music; to Theresa Sheliga and other Sacristans; to Lori Culberson, our Liturgy Co-ordinator, our Greeters and Eucharistic Ministers; to the Altar Servers; Parents and the Children. A special “Thank You” to our Pastor, Fr. Joel Fortier, Fr. Rodolphe Arty, our Associate, Fr. Bob Colaresi, and Fr. Pat Brennan (Weekend Associates); our Deacons: Michael Barrett, Jim Breen, Larry Kearney, and Will Worden ( ^ May he rest in peace with our Lord.); Tricia Serna, our 2nd Grade Coordinator; Nancy Cirmo and Marge Coronado, our Religious Education Assistants and to the following Catechists and Aides who have given of their time, love and a sharing of their faith to these First Communicants:

Wendy Balda Veronica McLaughlin Rachel Smith Sheleagh Bishop Christine Nold Breanna Sterling Amy Duran Maureen Overman Jenny Tapia Samantha Fattes Sujo Parakkal Tina Theis Wanda Fattes Tricia Serna Maureen Troke Melisa Kennedy Meg Smith Sarah Vonderheide Bridget McKernan Tami Wagener

May we all grow closer to the Lord through the gift of Eucharist. ~ Patti Dougherty

— May 6, 2012

DuPage River Sweep: SAVE THE DATE Join St. Thomas Teens with Character at the DuPage River Sweep. The DuPage River Sweep is an effort by The Conservation Foundation to clean up debris along the DuPage River. DATE: May 19, 2012 TIME: 9 a.m.—12 p.m. Please gather at St. Thomas at 8 am. Permission forms and more information available outside Peggy Goralski’s office or by emailing [email protected]. June 8 and 9! 4th Annual Youth Mission Garage Sale St. Thomas the Apostle’s teens going on mission to Aurora, Washington DC, and Nicaragua will be hosting a garage sale fundraiser and need your help! They are accepting gently used items for the sale. Smaller items will be accepted beginning Friday, May 25 and larger items (i.e. furniture, etc) the week of the sale. The garage sale will take place: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, June 8 and 9. Spread the word! JUST5DAYS: There are still openings! WHAT is Just5Days? Just5Days is a five-day experience of service, hands-on learning activities, prayer and liturgy, and community build-ing designed for groups of middle school youth and their adult leaders from Catholic parishes and schools. Just5Days immerses middle schoolers in hands-on service to those in need as they learn about justice in engaging and exciting ways. Would you like to experience Just5Days? St. Thomas is taking a group of middle school students (students com-pleting grades 6, 7 and 8) on a Just5Days service trip to Appleton, Wisconsin during the week of July 9 through 13. If you are interested in finding out more, go to www.just5days.org contact Peggy Goralski: [email protected] or 630.355.8980, ext. 123.

Youth Minister’s Corner Recently, forty-five Saint Thomas teens received the sacrament of Confirmation. If they were to be asked what the sacrament of Confirmation is all about, what they would tell you (I hope!) is that the sacrament of Confirmation is not an end but a beginning. It is not a finish line, but the start of something better. It is not a time to ease up, but a time to push deeper, go further, and do more in faith. In essence, the sacrament of Confirmation is a calling to bear fruit. The readings this Sunday point to this important message of our faith. Christ as the “True Vine” says if we remain in him, we stay connected with his love and Spirit and thus are able to bear fruit. That’s all well and good, but what does it mean to bear fruit and what does it look like? One consequence of bearing fruit is that we shall be pruned to bear more fruit. In other words, it’s a snowball effect, and goodness produces more goodness. Another consequence is that God provides us with what we need, much like a plant draws its nutrients and life from its roots and vines. The consequence of not remaining in Christ is a harsh one and, “He takes away every branch in (him) that does not bear fruit,” and these branches are cast out to wither and be used as kindling! Sounds like some tough love, no doubt about it! I think the bottom line message here is that being true Christians requires much more of us than simply standing on the sidelines. We are all called to play a role in spreading the fruits of Christ’s love and spirit throughout the world. The way we bear fruit in our lives is about keeping God’s commandments to, “believe in the name of…Jesus Christ, and love one another just as he commanded us.” So my challenge for you this week is that you take these readings to heart and think about how God might be calling you to step up, to do more, and spread his love. So remain in Christ and bear fruit!

Peace & Prayers, Brett Adams, Director of Youth Ministry 630-355-8980 x 117 [email protected] A BIG Thank You! Middle School Religious Education is possible because of the hard work of many people. Marge Coronado takes care of many details to ensure that the year runs smoothly and that students and parents are informed. Marge’s ideas and enthusiasm bring so much life to the program. In addition, the following volunteers have shared their faith and given of their time and talent to the middle school students:

Phyllis Erickson Ann Clawson Dan Carr Nancy Trattner Patty Andrick Sue Pickett Rose Grumbine Mary Engardio Brooke Eber Mary Szczap Mike Fekety Sharon Meyer Chris Cast John Kennedy Joan Vitro Steven Grumbine Barb Morrone Monica Parker Jennifer Battle-Hayes Dee Zeuthen Lorna Perry Lourdes Chew Julie Knoll Tim Micheau Michelle Krzmarzick Amy Trujillo Jill Bartosz Eva Thurman-Keup Darlene Dionne-Karales Marie-Claire Mears

Thank you all so much! You are a blessing and an inspiration.

May 6, 2012 —

Service Commission—Outreach & Social Justice

Volunteers Needed The annual St. Thomas the Apostle mission trip to Tutwiler is fast approaching and volunteers are needed! Absolutely no construction experience is re-quired, although construction/trades knowledge is always helpful. Very capable construction leaders are on each team. All that is really required is a willing-ness to make the journey. Families with teenagers 16 or older are welcome. It has proven to be a very re-warding experience for the veterans that have helped. St. Thomas has been helping to build safe and af-fordable housing at the current location in Tutwiler, Mississippi for 15 years – St. Thomas work crews are well entrenched and respected in the community. While participants are there not only will they be part of a great Habitat mission, but will also get a chance to meet the people of the community and experience some of the local Delta culture – Tutwiler is the home of the Blues. Travel dates this year are the weeks of June 9 or 10 – 16 and June 16 or 17 – 23. For more information contact Amy Lane Kaminsky at [email protected] or 630.918.8515.

Vote – Vote – Vote Until May 13 Many St. Thomas parishioners know Gaby De La Cruz … He is a St. Thomas teenager with an incurable neurological condition that has re-quired over 40 brain surgery operations. He is forced to live lying on his back and endures con-stant pain. He has a strong faith in God. His per-sonal motto is: Failure is not an option! He gradu-ated from Neuqua High School and is a freshman at COD. Currently, he is transported while lying flat on the floor of the family van. We have an opportu-nity to help Gaby secure a handicap accessible van by simply voting on the internet.

Go to http://www.stapostle.org Click on the picture of Gaby and it will take you to the vote link. FIRST TIME VOTERS: Enter CODE 889 to give Gaby five extra votes!

Spring is Finally Here! The Care Pantry Garden is starting up again and the Outreach and Social Justice Outreach and Social Justice (OSJ)) Ministry is looking for volunteers to weed, till, and plant over the next couple weeks. There will be a tiller avail-able after 11:15 mass on Sunday, May 6, and a few strong people at noon could get the job done. On Saturday, May 12, beginning at 8:00 a.m., volunteers are needed to put in seeds and plants. Your time and talent will help feed St. Thomas Care Pantry families. No experience necessary— perfect for com-munity service obligations! If you can’t come on May 12, but would like to help throughout the growing season, contact Anne in the OSJ Office 630.355.8980 x113, [email protected]).

— May 6, 2012

Pro-Life Celebrates Moms Next Weekend, the St. Thomas Pro-Life Ministry is celebrating Moms! Please accept a gift as you leave church next weekend. Quarterly Diaper Drive As part of the celebration of Moms, the Pro-Life Ministry will have this year’s second Quarterly Diaper Drive the weekends of May 12/13 and May 19/20. Please bring diapers and wipes and place them in the playpen in the Gathering Area. These diapers will be donated to Waterleaf Women’s Center in Aurora. Thank you for your love and generosity to these Moms!

Spring Cleaning? Save your Reusable Items for The St. Vincent de Paul Spring Clothing Drive.

The St. Vincent de Paul collection truck will be in the St. Thomas park-ing lot on May 19 and 20. Clothing and home goods of all kinds are ac-cepted – even non-working electronics (computer equipment, monitors, fax machines, TVs, radios). Why should you save your castoffs for Saint Vincent de Paul (SVDP)? Not only will you help the environment by preventing them from going to the landfill, but some of these items will be given a new life and provided, at no cost, to those who have little. The majority of your donations will be sold in the Joliet and West Chicago stores. Some of the money received is returned to our St. Thomas SVDP ministry to help our parishioners and neighbors with rent and utilities. Vincentians will be handing out bags Mothers Day weekend, so please take a couple home to fill and return the following week! Planning Meeting — St. Nicholas, St. Thomas’s sister parish in Aurora, is again having their Mexican Kermes festival at the end of June. St. Thomas will once again run the children’s games. Excellent family activity. It is a very fun experience! Volunteers interested in helping at this fun event, are invited to an initial meeting at St. Thomas at 7:00 p.m. on May 7.

Citizenship Workshop Results Thirty-Six people completed their next step toward US citizen-ship at the Citizenship Workshop held at St. Thomas on Saturday, April 28. With the help of St. Thomas volunteers, they com-pleted their Application for Natu-ralization. The applicants in-cluded immigrants from Africa, Arab countries, Poland, and Mex-ico. The workshop was sponsored by World Vision and the St. Tho-mas Immigration Initiative. World Vision was very com-plimentary about how well organ-ized the event was, even having a room where children were enter-tained. Ximena, a World Vision coordinator, repeated several times how impressed she and the World Relief staff were with the warm and welcoming spirit of St. Thomas volunteers, and are look-ing forward to having more Citi-zenship Workshops at St. Tho-mas. There were 42 St. Thomas volunteers helping at the event. Even more than that responded to the request for help. A big thank you to all that volunteered, and a special thanks and congratulations to Eleanor Wegman from the St. Thomas Immigration Initiative for coordi-nating St. Thomas planning and implementation .

St. Nicholas Kermes Fair

May 6, 2012 —

Pastoral Care News From All Saints Catholic Academy

Medicine Cabinet Spring Cleaning: When you’re planning Spring Cleaning, add the medicine cabinet to your list of tasks. It is very important to dispose of expired over-the-counter or unnecessary prescription medicines promptly and properly. Disposing of old medications re-duces the risk of accidental use, overdose and ille-gal abuse. Sadly, prescription drugs have been found in lakes, rivers, and drinking water supplies, mostly as a result of flushing them down the toi-let. Ideally, take the medicine out of its original container and place in any plastic bag…To protect your privacy, scratch/tear off personal information on the prescription label. Recycle containers. Con-tinue filling same plastic bag with any remaining prescription drugs that have been discontinued by your doctor or over-the-counter drugs that have expired. Always talk to your Pharmacist if you have questions regarding injectables or creams or liquids that have expired. Reserve the pill collec-tion for the DEA sponsored Annual National Pre-scription Drug Take Back Day in the spring.

During the winding down of the 2011-2012 school year, the halls and classrooms at All Saints have been, and will be, filled with some joyous celebrations. School Events — On Friday, May 4, All Saints Catholic Academy celebrated Grandparents' Day. Almost 300 grand-parents were able to join us from 14 different states as far away as New York, Minnesota, Nebraska and Arizona. The day begins as grandparents gather for light refreshments to energize them for the classroom visits that follow. Each grandparent receives a personalized schedule that directs them to their grandchild's classroom, where special events are planned to celebrate the bond that connects our grandparents with their grandchildren. Following the classroom visits, grandparents have the opportunity to celebrate the May Crowning of our Blessed Mother Mary, and the Living Ro-sary which is presented by fourth grade students in the school gym. We are so very honored to be able to share this loving and prayer-filled connection with our grandparents, who join us to be here for their grandchildren. Did You Know? — This is the time of year that children and their families are celebrating the joys of their second grade students receiving First Holy Communion. You may have wondered how this works at All Saints. Since All Saints Catholic Academy is a regional Catholic school that is sup-ported by more than one parish, all of our second grade stu-dents who will be receiving the Eucharist for the first time will return to their home parishes to receive the sacrament. Since our students have daily religion classes at the school that support this sacramental preparation, they do not have to attend weekly RE classes at the parish level. We, as a school community, then come together to honor all of our second grade students with a special Communion celebration mass which is scheduled for Wednesday, May 16 at the 8:15 am school mass. This is a mass that all three of the second grade classes prepare and present. All of the second grade students come to school dressed to the nines in their beautiful dresses and suits. As a Communion meditation song, the students sing 'Give Thanks', with lyrics as follows: Give thanks with a grateful heart, Give thanks to the Holy One, Give thanks be-cause He's given Jesus Christ, His Son. And now let the weak say, "I am strong", Let the poor say, "I am rich; Because of what the Lord has done for us". Following the mass, the students will have a reception with a special snack. At a culmination of this day, classes come together to complete a service project. We congratulate our 70 second grade students at this most special time in their lives.

In the Hospital or Homebound?

Call the parish office 355-8980 or the Pastoral Care Office x 124 and

one of our parish nurses or ministers of care will visit, bring Eucharist and prayer.

— May 6, 2012

Stewardship Commission Last Weekend’s stewardship of financial gifts...

Weekly Sunday Offertory April 29, 2012 Sunday Collection Offering Automatic Direct Debit Mailed in & stock donations Total for week *Based on Collection Counters Reports

Fiscal Year (7/1 to 6/30) to date: Weekly Average 7/1/10 to date: Offertory Goal Year to Date Over/short of goal to date: Goal for Fiscal Year 7/1 to 6/30 Remaining for Fiscal Year goal Diocesan Appeal Updated Results Parish Appeal Goal: Pledges Received: % of Goal pledged to date: Remaining amount to goal

$21,426 n/a

$3,039 $24,465

$1,556,443

$35,374 $1,613,832

($57,389) $1,870,587

$314,144

$139,177 $100,735

72.38% $38,442

Receptionists Needed at St. Thomas

Seeking two part-time individuals to job share night and Saturday receptionist duties. Must be at least 21 years of age, fluent in English (Spanish is helpful but not required) and able to work flexible hours. Good communication skills, friendly and welcoming demeanor also needed. Able to assist with clerical work and capable of assisting in emergency evacuations and other duties, when needed. Training provided. Submit resume to Kathy Ferguson, 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville 60563, no later than May 11. Questions? Call Kathy at 630.355.8980, ext. 100.

POSITION OPEN AT ST. ISIDORE PARISH—BLOOMINGDALE St. Isidore Parish in Bloomingdale, IL is seeking an Adult Formation Director (full-time) or Co-director (2 part-time positions). The director (Co-director) fosters and promotes faith formation of the adults in the parish community. The director envisions, creates, develops, implements, facilitates, and empowers enrichment and formation experiences in collaboration with the Pas-tor, Parish Administrator, Pastoral Staff, Formation Commission, and the DEEP Team (Adult Formation Board). A Master's Degree in Pastoral Studies, Divinity, Theology, or related field is required. Qualified interested applicants please send resume and cover letter by May 15, 2012 to the attention of Tom Norton, Parish Administrator at [email protected] or 427 W. Army Trail Road, Bloomingdale, IL 60108. To see the full job description please contact Tom Norton at 630-295-8330.

May 6, 2012 —

Administration Commission THE WEEK AHEAD... Monday, May 7 4:00—5:30 p.m. Youth Choir, Church 7:00—9:00 p.m. Buildings & Grounds, Judea 7:00—9:00 p.m. Coed Volleyball, Gym 7:00—9:00 p.m. Kermes Meeting, Cana 7:00—9:00 p.m. NAMI, Youth Center Tuesday, May 8 7:00—9:00 p.m. Adult Basketball, Gym 7:00—9:00 p.m. Charismatic Prayer Group, Lounge 7:00—10:00 p.m. Voices of Faith, Church 7:00—9:00 p.m. Finance Committee, Cana Wednesday, May 9 7:00—9:00 p.m. Leadership Night, Judea & Cana 7:30—9:30 p.m. Elias Rehearsal, Church Thursday, May 10 9:15—11:15 a.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Senior Center 4:15—5:30 p.m. Jammers, Church 6:00—7:30 p.m. Journey Praise, Church 7:30—9:00 p.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Senior Center Friday, May 11 9:00—11:30 a.m. Friday A. M. Bible Study, Senior Center 9:15am-12:00 p.m. Jobs Ministry, Gym 7:00—8:30 p.m. ALPHA Marriage Course, Lighthouse Saturday, May 12 9:00—10:30 a.m. Men’s Saturday Sharing, Senior Center West 9:15—10:30 a.m. Soul Searchers, Rectory Basement 4:00—7:00 p.m. RCIA, Senior Center 5:00—9:00 p.m. Adult Confirmation Retreat, Rectory Basement 5:30—6:00 p.m. May Crowning, Church 6:00—8:00 p.m. Mary’s W.A.Y. Dinner, Ministry Center

Keynote Speaker Night Presentation Wednesday, May 23, at 7:00 p.m.

"Free Career Seminar" - Steve Olsher Our presenter is Steve Olsher, well-known author and speaker who will provide a stimulating look as to how to discover who you were born to be and its importance throughout your life. Steve has taught thousands how to discover their WHAT -- that is, the ONE thing they were born to do and tap into their unique, natural abilities. De-termining the combined skills, traits, and interests that make you distinct can lead you to your next opportunity, help in your selection of an occupation that aligns with who you inherently are, and lead you towards satisfaction and happiness. Be sure to attend this excellent presenta-tion. Steve Olsher is America’s Reinvention Expert and has taught thousands how to NICHETIZE!™ by identifying and monetizing their WHAT—that is, the ONE thing they were born to do. His singular approach for realizing per-manent, positive change blends proprietary methods with ancient wisdom and revolutionary lessons from modern thought leaders and forms a proven system for ultimate achievement in business and life. He is the Chairman and Co-Founder of Liquor.com; President of Bold Develop-ment; co-star of the groundbreaking film, The Keeper of the Keys with Jack Canfield, John Gray, and Marci Shi-moff; Author of Internet Prophets: The World's Leading Experts Reveal How to Profit Online; Founder of the Rein-vention Workshop; Host of Reinvention Radio; Author of USA Book News’ Self-Help Book of The Year Jour-ney To You: A Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming Who You Were Born to Be; and, an in-demand media guest who has appeared on ABC TV, FOX TV, CNBC.com and more than 200 radio shows including national shows hosted by Lou Dobbs, Jim Bohannon, and Mancow Muller.

Jobs Ministry Meetings — May 2012

Fri, May 4, 9:30 am: The "Job Search Tips for 50+" session will address challenges particular to the over-50 job seeker. Participants will learn how to present themselves to employers in both written and spoken com-munications. Resources presented will include job search websites and a list of the best employers for 50+ workers. In over 30 years as a Human Resources professional, Ed Cunningham has hired hundreds of people.

Fri, May 11, 9:30 am: "LinkedIn Content Writing Workshop" Learn how to craft a LinkedIn profile that highlights your career experiences using direct statements, appropriate grammar and easy-to-read bullet points. Fo-cus on particularly significant accomplishments that speak to specifics, while demonstrating a savvy grasp of the big

picture. Ann C. Piasecki is an award-winning, veteran journal-ist as well as a communications and public relations profes-sional.

Fri, May 18, 9:30 am: "Get Off Your BUTS - How to Make Progress Instead of Excuses". Are you tired of feeling like you’re always struggling to catch up, while you only wind up falling further and further behind? Tammy’s three easy-to-remember keys give you immediate, actionable tools to use to begin conquering procrastination and creating new habits. Tammy Cook is a life coach helping other creative spirits learn to better manage their time and energy.

Wed, May 23, 7 pm: A FREE CAREER SEMINAR. Pre-senter Steve Olsher, well-known author and speaker, will pro-vide a stimulating look at how to discover who you were born to be and its importance throughout your life. Steve has taught thousands how to discover their WHAT -- that is, the ONE thing they were born to do and tap into their unique, natural abilities.

St. Thomas the Apostle JOBS MINISTRY

— May 6, 2012

May 6, 2012 —

fifth sunday of easter may 6, 2012 · 2012-05-06 · marilyn demeo* – database coordinator...

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