THE LEDGER Issue 2 May 2016

St. Matthew the Apostle Church

❖ One ❖ Parish ❖ One ❖ Family ❖ One ❖ Journey ❖

Pastoral Reflection: Mercy

The Pope gives an Angelus address every Sunday at noon before praying the Angelus with the crowd gathered. In Pope Francis’ very first Angelus address in 2013 he said, “Mercy changes everything.” It should come as no surprise then that he has declared a Jubilee Year of Mercy for the Church which we celebrate until November 20th this year. He desires that we view this year as a new chance to “be steeped in mercy, so that we can go out to every man and woman, bringing the goodness and tenderness of God!” (MV,5)

Mercy is nothing new to Christianity. Mercy is Christ Himself. Remember the Good Thief? After breaking laws and being sentenced to an awful death, he came face to face with Jesus as they hung together on crosses. This criminal was moved to confess Him as Lord and ask for His pardon. Remember the woman caught in adultery? Jesus does not condemn her, but sees her grief and sorrow for her sin. He teaches those about to stone her that a person can be forgiven, and offered the opportunity to live a dignified life in the truth of virtue and love. Jesus reveals an important fact about mercy: it is for all repentant sinners.

We learn from the good thief that humility and courage are important to being able to receive mercy. It is tempting to live according to our own morality, to justify the behavior in our life that is not in accord with God’s law. The good thief was given the incredible opportunity to meet mercy face to face; to meet Jesus and die alongside Him. We too are able to meet mercy face to face; to meet Jesus so that we can die to our disordered desires and sinfulness. It takes humility to call Jesus “Lord” and surrender our lives to His mercy. To grow in humility and love of Jesus takes prayer – every day. One way to meet Jesus face to face is by making time to visit the Divine Mercy Perpetual Adoration Chapel in the Undercroft of our church.

We learn from the adulterous woman that trust is important. She trusted Jesus in that great moment of fear. She trusted that He would have an impact on those around her and speak the truth about her situation. As Catholics who embrace the Sacraments, we want to go to Confession as often as needed to grow in grace. (The Church, out of concern for our spiritual well-being, requires us to confess our mortal sins at least once a year.) We can trust that, even if we fear the act of saying our sins out loud, Jesus redeems and strengthens us to go forth to live in the freedom of His love. Even if we fear other people knowing our sins and judging us for it, or not forgiving us, ultimately it is Jesus Christ and His response of mercy that matters most.

In addition to the usual weekend times at St. Matthew, Confessions are now heard every Wednesday morning, from 7:00 a.m.-7:30 a.m. It is our hope that more and more parishioners will trust in the Divine Mercy of Jesus by seeking His forgiveness and grace to conquer sin; to steep ourselves in His mercy and to grow in sharing that mercy.

The Annual Parish Festival:The parish’s annual Festival will be held July 21st, 22nd and 23rd. The Festival offers great food, games, Monte Carlo, and more! There are many ways to get involved. We are always looking for members to join our Festival Committee, which meets monthly through June. We also need a tremendous amount of help on the days before and of the Festival. If you are interested in learning more or getting involved in any capacity, please contact Patrick and Taylor McHale (614-736-1544 or stmatthewparishfestival@gmail.com).

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My RCIA Journey: by Andi Arens

The hours after the Easter Vigil were some of the most emotional of my life. Joyfully recounting the details of the evening with my husband, I would suddenly dissolve into tears as the significance of what had transpired settled into my heart. In the span of a few minutes, a lifetime of sin was washed away in the waters of baptism. I publically confirmed that I believe in Jesus and His Church. His body, His blood, His soul and His divinity entered into my body and heart for the very first time. It’s hard, even today, to put into words what those hours meant to me. My journey of faith, such a twisting and winding road, had brought me to that night full of gratitude and excitement.

Except for a few years in the Baptist Church as a child, there was no religious structure in my life. As I grew older, there were those fleeting moments when I would feel something, but I would never have acknowledged it as God – such as the births of my children and watching my grandmother pass away. However, very gradually, I started believing in and praying to this ambiguous creation of who and what I thought God was.

I started attending Mass with my husband in 2013. Sitting in the pews I felt as if there was no way “these people” would ever accept me. I had lived too hard, made too many mistakes, said terrible things about religion. But God had cracked open a window in my obstinacy, and I started hearing things in the homilies. I would find myself humming the hymns days after Mass. I didn’t need to be able to call it the Holy Spirit; I just felt it.

In the fall of 2014, in a time of great crisis, I was brought to my knees wounded, terrified and utterly hopeless. I had felt God standing behind me when I was alone, holding me up and nudging me gently forward when I was scared but all of the sudden, He grabbed my shoulders and gently turned me around so I could see His face. It was Him! All along, it was Him! And that was the moment that my life changed forever.

I went to see Karen Burford and told her that I wanted to become a Catholic. Unfortunately, I just missed the 2014 RCIA Class. I had to wait almost an entire year for the next cycle, but I spent that year reading, listening to AM820, attending Mass every week and asking questions – lots of questions.

When RCIA finally started this past fall, I was so excited! The very first night I came in and met Yvonne, who became my Sponsor and Tuesdays quickly became my favorite day of the week. We were anointed as Catechumens in the Rite of Welcoming, and it was so powerful to have our Sponsors make the sign of the cross on our bodies. On Valentine’s Day, Bishop Campbell welcomed us in the Rite of Election, and it was on that evening, that he pointed out that Jesus had called our names, and we had answered. I had never thought of it in that way. A few weeks later, I attended the Catholic Women’s Conference with my Sponsor and other women from St. Matthew, and I felt the powerful presence of the Lord in the hearts of those thousands of women. The weeks whizzed by and soon it was Holy Week. Then suddenly, it was Saturday, March 26. The day I had been waiting for. I used to think I waited over a year for that day to come. I know now that I waited my whole life.

This is just the beginning of my Catholic life. I know that the real work starts now. My prayers of asking to that ambiguous concept of God have evolved into sincere prayers of praise and gratitude to our Lord Jesus. Revealing Himself to me ultimately led me to finding myself in His eyes.

The Stepping Stone to an RCIA Journey by Claire Bridinger

My RCIA journey began over 10 years ago with what I perceived to be just a stepping stone in my career.

I grew up in several Protestant Churches, and I drifted away in my college years. Sundays were for sleeping in, as it was the only day my college softball coach wasn’t allowed to schedule practice. During my second year of college, I met my husband and on our second date, he invited me to attend Mass with him. I was impressed with his openness about his faith, but told him that I hope he didn’t expect me to convert because that wasn’t going to happen. I will never forget his gentle response: “I will never ask you, but I will always support you in faith.” I didn’t realize the impact this event and his careful words would have on my life.

Two years later, I was a new graduate applying for what seemed like nonexistent PE teaching jobs. I was thrilled to get a call from Mrs. Carole Marsh at a place called St. Matthew School, and I was even more excited to get the job. From my perspective, at the time, this was a great stepping stone. I gain a few years of experience and move on to bigger and better things. I was welcomed by a wonderful, caring faculty and staff, as well as a vibrant and thriving community of students, parents, and parishioners. I felt so lucky to have been led here. Two years passed, then five, then seven, and every spring when the job postings appeared, I never looked. I was happy, content, and not interested in leaving what had surprisingly come to feel like home.

During my 8th year of teaching, I began to notice something was absent in my life. I had a steadfast, loving, and hard-working husband, a beautiful daughter, a job I love going to every day, yet there was emptiness. In October, I decided I needed to go to Church. I wasn’t sure where to go. My husband suggested I go to St. Matthew; at least I’d know some parishioners. The following week, a colleague and friend invited me to sit with her family. I felt this is exactly where I needed to be every Sunday. In the next two months, I realized that my commitment to this community wasn’t just about my teaching job. I no longer wanted to marvel at this loving community, I wanted be a part of it! On Christmas Day, I asked that same colleague and friend to be my RCIA Sponsor. Without hesitation, she joyfully replied, “Absolutley!” It seems that the “stepping stone,” from a decade ago, has actually become the foundation on which I confidently stand, ready to receive the sacraments of initiation, and become one of the faithful that helped draw me to this place.

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A Reflection by Father Mike Hartge

I was walking to the door of the Fayette County Memorial Hospital one Monday afternoon in February, and I said to myself, “I love my job.” This was the second of five stops to anoint homebound parishioners as I crisscrossed a frigid Fayette County amidst falling snow that looked more like cotton balls than flakes. I knew immediately that those unexpected words I murmured to myself were sincere. Although I was going to visit someone in the ICU unit, I had a consolation unique and powerful to bring with me, namely in the Blessed Sacrament, the Sacrament of Anointing, and in the presence of the Priesthood of Jesus Christ. Before May 30, 2015, that wouldn’t have been the case. Priesthood is of course so much more than a job, and I couldn’t be happier and more content with the way I spend my days. However, the contrast is stark. In the years before seminary, I spent my days in my office calling record representatives or in the radio studio. Now, I travel regularly to four different parishes. From pilgrimages to potlucks, from Baptisms to burials, from Misa en Español to English, I enjoy the adventure of this vocation to the priesthood immensely.

Fr. Hahn has been an exceptional pastor to assist and learn from. It’s been rewarding, right out of seminary, to have the three of us priests, Fr. Hahn, Fr. Dooley and myself, living together and spending time together. Upon ordination, I expected to be assigned as a parochial vicar to a large, suburban parish as has often been the case in recent years. This assignment to a new consortium of parishes has allowed me to experience priesthood in a unique way from what I observed while growing up in St. Matthew Parish and in my summer seminarian assignments.

Just over a year ago, three Franciscan sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (FIH) came to the convent at St. Peter to assist St. Peter, St. Mary, and Waverly Parishes with outreach. (This was before St. Colman and St. Sylvester came on board.) Along with the kindness and encouragement I have received from the parishioners in the Consortium these past months, Sr. Amelia Mary, Sr. Shani Mary, and Sr. Leonard Mary, have been a wonderful source of support for me. They are always ready to be of assistance, and are frequently concerned with my well-being, asking such things as, “Father, have you had your lunch?” They encourage me to give more of myself as I spend time with them traveling to our homebound and nursing home parishioners around Chillicothe and to the patients at the VA hospital. They are helping to shape these nascent days of my priesthood in such an unexpectedly positive way. I’m very grateful to be working in the vineyard of the Lord with all three of them.

I think often and fondly of my home parish. I’m grateful for the good work for the Lord that continues to increase at St. Matthew, most especially at this time in the Divine Mercy Chapel. Perpetual Adoration is such a gift to the east side of Franklin County. Consider in your prayer how you can spend time with Our Lord in that chapel. Our Lord is patient as He calls us to conversion, but we must respond quickly to that invitation.

And, while you’re in there, pray for more priests for our diocese. This “small town” assignment of mine covers four counties for heaven’s sake!

With love, Fr. Mike Hartge

CONGRATULATIONS to those who received the Sacrament of BaptismZoey Rose Panda, Elaina Diane Smith, Domenico David Madrid, Carter Jean Bendoff, Olivia Rose Doyle-Wenger, Jaileen Cricel Gutierrez, Isaac Kolbe Ryan, Mackenzie Grace Stutzman, Wyatt Emerson Hall, Nolan Edward Pyzik, Caroline Frances Rudolph, Evelyn Mary Boyden, Daniela Gamino, August William Schmitt, Rebecca Ann Dodaro, Brandon Miles Fuentes, Penelope Marie Tilson, Brennan Edwards, Annabelle Tayem, Cody Tayem, Jackson August Baer, Micah Phillip Hess, Hudson Michael Jackowshi, William Kenneth James, Ethan Sanchez, Evan Atriz Sanchez, Aubrey Paige Thompson, Evelyn Lee Dishong, Simon Gabriel Rush, Alexander James Stepp, Madeleine Mary Loveman, Alexander James Stepp and Madeleine Mary Loveman.

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CONGRATULATIONS to those who received the Sacraments of Baptism,

Confirmation, and Eucharist at the Easter VigilMelanie Adams, Andrea Arens, Josh Edwards, John Edwards, Ashley Krichbaum, Kimberly Tayem, Ryan Tayem, Ateawung Tememu, Chelsea Temenu, and Beza Temenu. We also congratulate those who were received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church through

the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist: Steven Blausey, Claire Bridinger, Ruth Floyd, Grace Folly, Abbey Morante, Jim Ripke, Kelsey Ryan, and Lydia Ratinaud. It is with great joy that we welcome you to the Catholic Church and the Community of Saint Matthew Parish!Congratulations to Robert Evans and Chinechereme Ejikeme, who completed their Sacraments of Initiation with Bishop Campbell at St. Joseph Cathedral on February 25th.

CONGRATULATIONS to our First CommunicantsAlbree Aaron, Mariane Abbey, Elizabeth Abel, Areli Allen, Marisol Arent, Luke Ball, Jaylee Basten, Kyle Baumann, Katherine Bechtel, Oliver Bentivegna, Rowan Bickel, Bailey Buerger, Evelyn Cahill, Abbie Canter, Leah Carter, Katelyn Caswell, Caedmon Clark, Kael Clous, Ethan Collins, Samuel Couhig, Reagan Crosier, Seth Crouch, Brynn Cyre, Christopher Davis, Isabella Delisio, Cole Ditmer, Grace Eiselstein, Joseph Falzone, Jamison Fanell, Jocelyn Fanell, Charlotte Felter, Natalie Ference, Jeffrey Fields, Micah Frazier, Noah Frazier, Sam Gabrielli, Elaina Gatch, Rebecca Gebhart, Liam Gemzer, Eva Godbout, William Gray, Emma Hahn, Dawson Harber, Alan “Quinn” Harr, Katherine Hast, Gavin Hastings, Larkin Hatton, Ashley Helgerson, Tyler Henry, Weston Hewit, Mariana Hoops, Rachel Ille, William James, William Jett, Kathryn Jordan, Nicholas Keglewitsch, Nicolle Kirlangitis, Jamie Kruse, Nicholas Lacey, Catherine Loveman, Ava Manfresca, Allison Mann, Madeline McComb, Steven McGann, Donovan McGovern, Josilyn McVicker, Gabrielle Merrill, Vincenzo Migliozzi, Brenden Miller, James Minic, Emma Minser, Reagan Miracle, Natalia Miranda, Kovi Mitchell, Kathleen Motter, Ava Navarro, Owen Neary, Aubrie O’Donnell, Jackson Oliveri, James Partlow, Matthew Peck, Rowan Price, Maria (Mia) Puorro, Dominic Raimondo, Kathryn Ratliff, Bryce Reynolds, Tessa Richards, Declan Richardson, Raegan Rickman, Jack Root, Ellie Rotthoff, Carter Russell, Mila Saveski, August Schmitt, Braden Schrein, Lyla Scott, Meredith Scott, Jack Slutsky, Abigail Smith, Leah Stacklin, Paige Stygler, Bryanna Treadway, Allyson Truitt, Maxwell Vellani, Dylan Vo, Luke Voelker, Sophia Warner, Alaina Webb, Dominic Yosick, Sophia Zarcone, and Cynthia Zornes

Preparing for Holy Communion Contributors Christina Amweg, Sherry Schoenstein, Jackson OliveriDuring the month of April, Saint Matthew Parish, along with teachers, families, and friends, witnessed 109 children grow in their participation in the Church family and assembly at Mass through the sacrament of Holy Communion. Student and families had their choice of four Masses in April (held on the 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th) to make their First Communion. Approximately, 30 students of the Saint Matthew School and the Parish School of Religion received their sacrament together at each of the four Masses.As one can imagine there was much to do to prepare for receiving this very important sacrament. At the Saint Matthew School, students attended Mass every week with their teacher. “In class, we studied the parts of the Mass, as well as the vessels and vestments used during the Mass,” said Ms. Christina Amweg, 2nd Grade Teacher. Saint Matthew and PSR students also learned the correct hand positions when receiving Jesus and how to be respectful of the Blessed Sacrament during Mass and Adoration. The children were also hard at work practicing the Table prayer song, which they sang at the First Communion Retreat held on April 10th. This retreat was led by Sherry Schoenstein, PSR Coordinator. Both students and parents from PSR and the Saint Matthew School came together to attend. At the retreat students and parents took part in various activities to assist in preparing for First Communion. “One of these activities included making the banners that adorn their pews on First Communion Day,” said Ms. Amweg. Another activity was a reflection. Parents sat down and talked with their child one on one about their own First Communion Day.

  Throughout the year, students also journaled their thoughts and feelings about receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Jackson Oliveri, 2nd grader at the Parish School of Religion, explained some of his thoughts and feelings about preparing for and receiving his First Communion:  I prepared by practicing and praying. My teachers helped me a lot. The retreat was fun. My favorite part was learning about my mom’s First Communion. I learned a few new things from playing First Communion Bingo!   On Thursday night at practice, when I tried the wine, I did not like it. I was a little nervous about walking in. Practicing was helpful, so I would know what to do on Sunday.  For my First Communion, my whole family was there. I liked sitting in the front row, but we could not fit our entire family in the one pew. I did not like wearing fancy clothes, but it was worth it. I was nervous about dropping the host, but I felt happy to take Jesus into my body! Now I won’t have to sit and wait for my parents to come back from Communion. Afterwards, people took a lot of pictures of me. I am grateful for the gift I got from the church. It will help me pray better. I got presents from my family after First Communion. Now, I feel closer to Jesus!

The Saint Matthew Community is certainly excited to welcome these children into further participation of the Church and witness them receiving God in the Sacrament of the Eucharist.

Catholic Inquiry Sessions to be Held this SummerAre you or your spouse a non-Catholic who has married into a Catholic family and want to know more about the faith? Do you have family members or friends who are curious about Catholicism? Our no-pressure, no-commitment inquiry sessions will be held from 7:00-8:00 p.m. on June 14, June 28, July 12, July 26 and August 9 for those who simply want to explore the teachings of Catholicism. Topics will be based on the questions of those present. Attend one or all of the sessions with no obligation to become a member of RCIA. If you would like more information about the Inquiry Series or about RCIA, please contact Jennifer Cabe at 614-532-0626 or jcabe@stmatthew.net.

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Friends Across Time Contributors Judeen Hartge, Mary Lager, Thomas Dougherty

In 2004 while visiting my home state of Wisconsin, I reconnected with an old friend, Sherry Power, also a primary grades teacher. As we chatted, I was fascinated by the program she had devised, Forever Friends, connecting her second grade students with the residents of a nursing home. Once a month, her students did activities with the older “buddies” in the nursing facility. As noted on the Forever Friends website, “Our organization believes strongly in the benefits of intergenerational relationships to the entire community. The wisdom of our elders provides our youngsters with a solid foundation upon which to build their future. At the same time, the enthusiasm of our youngsters gives a sense of well-being and hope to our elders.”

This inspired me to create a similar program, connecting my Third Grade Class with retired St. Matthew parishioners. I chose this group because many of these retirees were once very involved with the school through their own children, and this offered a fun way for them to once again participate in a school activity and enrich the experience of the students. We call our program Friends Across Time.

Throughout the school year, we meet once a month for an hour in the St. Anthony Room. The group has evolved over the years. From our start eleven years ago with a small group of older “buddies,” we have grown to a one-to-one match of retirees to students. Sherry and I kept in touch, sharing ideas and results, and I learned that she had cultivated benefactors, and offered grants to assist the development of similar programs. For the last four years, St. Matthew has been awarded small grants from Forever Friends which have enabled us to create support materials such as buttons, posters, letterhead and cover some of the costs of the program.

As participant, Mary Lager shared her reflection of the program.

  “Third Grade Teacher, Mrs. Hartge, plans fun activities that the adults and children can do together. In the past, we have done various activities including making crafts for Children’s Hospital, played Bingo, shared heritages and customs of ancestors and enjoyed a spring Carnival. For the children, it expands their horizons as they learn concepts, practice teamwork, share supplies and activities with each other and do research on projects for a fun episode of learning. It allows us [as adults] to see what this current, smart, and technology-savvy generation is involved in, and how their childhood is unfolding through their sports and extracurricular activities.

  The “Friends Across Time” program is a great way to unite retired adults and school children in a bond of friendship and love. I hope to be a part of this program for as long as it exists!”

Thomas Dougherty, Third Grader at St. Matthew, also shares his reflection.

  “Friends Across Time is a lot more than just a normal program. Together, the 3rd Graders and the senior citizens get to choose who their buddies are, and their buddies are their buddies for the rest of the year. The 3rd Graders and their buddies play games, eat snacks, and sometimes sing a goodbye song at the end of the day. We pray at the beginning of every meeting. I like talking to Mrs. Lager because she is funny. She likes doing the activities with me. My favorite activity was right before Christmas when we made door hangers. I feel like Friends Across Time is a very awesome program.”

For more information about the program, please contact Mrs. Judeen Hartge at jhartge@cdeducation.org.

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A Catechist Story by Heather and Jeff Bernard

My husband Jeff and I never thought we’d be teachers and certainly never trained for it. It happened out of a need to help our kids, and that was all the motivation we needed.

We have two children with Autism. We’ve learned a few things about Autism and education over the years. We send our kids to a special school and know that they’re in good hands during the day. Our kids require assistance, so we were nervous when considering entering PSR. Their regular school teachers are very highly trained to deal with their disabilities, but we didn’t know how St. Matthew would respond.

I decided to become a PSR Classroom Aide and eventually Catechist for the kids’ First and Second Grade levels. I worked through the weekly program and helped get the kids prepared for their First Communion. We were blown away by the loving attitudes of the Catechists and the Staff, who bent over backward to help our children learn the faith. We admired them and moved forward through the Sacraments.

We soon learned that God had a bigger plan for us, and gifted us with more children. While we started the program with three, we soon had five and needed to find a way to get them involved in PSR. Since Jeff has a history of studying Scripture, the Catechism and spiritual material, he decided to help me out at PSR.

We’re able to do this, since St. Matthew has been gracious enough to help us with our younger kids, while we teach. As far as the teaching goes, we plan and execute each week. We get to know the families as friends and are very happy to see the students move on to Confirmation.

Reflecting, we’ve always worried about the quality of catechesis that our children would receive. Jeff and I both received Catholic educations, but had mixed results in the quality we received. We were determined to do better for our kids.

We have been teaching for three years now and are always excited to work. The program is simple and we are regularly trained by diocesan-approved Master Catechists. We learn so much and find brilliant ways to bring the beauty of our Holy Church and the Holy Family to our students. We no longer fear about the quality of their catechism, as we are deeply engaged in the program that is teaching them. Our little effort is turning into a huge blessing for our family, and hopefully the same for the families of our students.

We, who know our faith, have found the “pearl of great price,” but happy are we who can share the wealth that we have found! We know that as Christians the more we pour out, the more we harvest. Jeff and I have found so much joy from this ministry that we have gained more than we’ve given. The “harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few.”

If you can help this important ministry by sharing your faith, please strongly pray and consider it. If you find that you cannot do it, please pray for our present catechists and students. Please also pray “the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”

PSR an Unexpected Blessing by Patrick McHale, first year Catechist of the 6th Grade

“Even when the task seems too much, the resources too few, the obstacles too great, it should never be forgotten that yours is a holy work. The Holy Spirit is present wherever the name of Christ is proclaimed.” Pope Francis addressing Catechists and Teachers (November 27, 2015)

Many thoughts crossed my mind as I considered becoming a Catechist such as, “I don’t know enough or teaching middle school kids would be hard.” Therefore, I was not eager to teach. In fact, I was fairly uncomfortable with the idea. However, after much prayerful consideration, I decided to take a chance. I am so glad I did. Creating a lesson plan for my class provided me an opportunity to learn more about our faith. I became a sponge trying to learn all I could, and I believe it brought me closer in my relationship with Christ and with my students. The staff was a joy to work with and eager to assist whenever possible.

Working with the students, answering questions, and engaging in discussions and activities was more fun than I could have imagined. My students have been so great to get to know and they have taught me in our time together. Teaching PSR, like most ministries, is very rewarding. I believe the experience was good for my family, especially my children. They expressed to me the pride and joy of witnessing their father’s involvement with our Church. I am thankful for my students, our faculty, and the many families I met this year.

For more information about the Parish School of Religion, please contact Sherry Schoenstein at sschoenstein@stmatthew.net.

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The Daniel Arnold Memorial Foundation by Kevin ArnoldThe Daniel Arnold Memorial Foundation (DAMF) was created by a group of supportive friends after the death of our son on June 5, 2012. It serves the St. Matthew and greater Gahanna community through charitable works and awarding scholarships to deserving 8th and 12th Grade students. The genesis of the DAMF began when Lisa Ruth and Teresa Baird suggested a day of service, Danny’s Day, to be held on the fourth Saturday in June of every year. The first event was a very successful blood drive held at St. Matthew and was expanded in the following years to a long list of service activities ranging from cleaning up around the church and school to serving meals at the Ronald McDonald House.Luke 12:48 can be paraphrased as “To whom much is given, much is expected.” This was Daniel’s favorite Bible verse and one he lived by in his final years. It’s even engraved on the bench marking his grave. Danny’s Day provides members of the St. Matthew community, in addition to anyone who wishes to join us, a day to do service work for a project they create or with one that has been organized and needs helpers. Danny’s Day events have brought together hundreds of people giving their time and talents to those in need. In 2014 and 2015, we saw Danny’s Day events held in Ireland, Italy and Greece. Danny’s Day recognizes that we all have an abundance of God-given riches, and allows us to pay back with acts of kindness and to live Luke 12:48.Scholarships is another facet of DAMF. Daniel was an outstanding student from grade school through the Pre-Med Honors program at the University of Dayton. In honor of his legacy of scholastic achievement and service to his community, the DAMF invites students with exceptional grades, service, as well as proven leadership and well-rounded extracurricular activities to submit an essay on how they will live up to Luke 12:48. Selecting the winners is one of the most challenging things the team does as there are many outstanding students at St. Matt’s, Bishop Hartley, and St. Francis DeSales. To date, over $20,000.00 has been awarded to students at these schools. At least $7,000.00 will be awarded this year.To raise funds for the scholarships and the activities during Danny’s Day, Tom Lefever, Tom Eckl, Amy Rees, and Lisa Dawes stepped forward to start a Golf Outing held each May. Daniel was on the Hartley Golf Team for three years. The 2016 Danny’s Open Golf Scramble is May 21st, and is open to anyone of any skill level to join us for what has proven to be a fun time at St. Albans Golf Course in Alexandria. We have felt his spirit at the Danny’s Open through the great weather we attribute to him each year and through the laughs and good times we share.In 2014, Kristen Fox, whose son was awarded a scholarship at his Eighth Grade Graduation, proposed a Monte Carlo Fund Raiser. This aligned well with Danny’s keen interest in Poker and the Science of gaming. Dealing for Danny (D4D) has been very successful, with the 2015 and 2016 events raising over $13,000.00 for DAMF activities. The 2016 D4D event had 130 participants and we are planning for many more in 2017!The Daniel Arnold Memorial Foundation hopes to see you at Danny’s Day or one of our fund-raising events. Even if you cannot participate, we hope you’ll consider the gifts you have been given and live up to the verse from Luke, just like Daniel did during his 21 years here with us.To learn more about our activities, please go to www.danielarnoldfoundation.org.

Banquet of Christ by Joseph ThomasHave you ever sat in a crowded room but felt so at home or at ease? Have you ever been surrounded by people from such diverse backgrounds but with the same heart? Being alone can provide one with the solitude to become more involved in a relationship with God. Still, being with others of shared experience can create a bond even more lasting. For example, stories are shared and the day is recalled as we sit around the table at dinner with loved ones. We too, as a community, get together at the same table, God’s table, during Mass on Sunday.Such an encounter occurred for me at the Men’s Conference this past February. The Catholic Men’s Conference held February 27th was held at the Voinovich Building at the Expo Center.I was able to talk to so many of the men attending. Some shared how they came to be there and how their faith had been challenged this past year. They said it was a true blessing to them and that they became better fathers, sons, uncles and friends to those they knew. Their motivation came from the inspirational words they heard, the sights, the sounds and their interactions with each other.Our speakers, Father Larry Richards, Hector Molina, Doug Karam and Bishop Campbell, brought together this unity of spirit and were dynamic in bringing this audience together. They talked about hope, action, promise and of ways men can contribute in their ordinary lives. It was a day for fellowship, for seeing what organizations one could become involved with and there was certainly an opportunity for making good Confession. We invite a conversation that lasts a lifetime by allowing ourselves to be humbled by Christ. Some of these men came expecting a simple grouping of community; what many left with, what I personally left with, was the endearing talent for mercy each and every one of us can have, and do have, for the works of our hands and in the true spirit of giving. They say that releasing your burdens, at least for a moment, is good for the soul. I tell you now, that I was made better by the experience. I wanted a meal and what I was offered was a true, unforgettable banquet, Christ’s banquet, kneeling at the foot of the cross.For more information about the Catholic Men’s Conference, please visit http://columbuscatholicmen.com/.

THE LEDGERPage 8 ❖ Issue 2 May 2016

Women’s Conference Contributors Yvonne Diebel, Laura Navarro  and Lauren Shiman

On February 20, 2016, hundreds of women, mothers, daughters, nieces, wives, and grandmothers, joined together from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., at the Ohio Expo Center for the Annual Catholic Women’s conference. “From the moment you walked through the door every minute was filled,” said Yvonne Diebel, St. Matthew parishioner who attended the conference. “It always amazes me how the Expo Center is transformed to a beautiful place of worship,” she continues.

The day began with the Rosary. Then there was morning Mass with Bishop Campbell. During the day there was music, the opportunity for Confession, Adoration of our Lord, and speakers who shared stories and testimonies including Jennifer Fulwiler, Fr. Nathan Cromly, Sonja Corbitt, and singer and songwriter Sarah Kroger.

For many women the conference had them reflecting on their journey in their faith. Laura Navarro, parishioner here at St. Matthew, shares what her experience at the Conference has meant to her over time.

  “I attended my first Catholic Women’s Conference in 2014 after my sister asked me to join her several years in a row. I think I had always been “too busy” in the past to go, but I had run out of excuses. Reflecting upon my journey as a Catholic which began when I was baptized as a baby, continued through Catholic school and my adult life, I have to say that my journey was ignited by that conference in 2014. After listening to the most motivational speakers, I stood in adoration that afternoon singing along with the music. Since then, my heart has been on fire, burning for the Lord, desiring and seeking more knowledge, truth, and love from Him. Each year that I attend, my heart grows even more!”

The date for next year’s conference is already set. It will be held on Saturday, February 18, 2017. This will mark the 10th Anniversary of the Conference. According to the Women’s Catholic Conference website, speakers scheduled include Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, Jeff Cavins, Kerri Caviezel, and music by Taylor Tripodi.

As Yvonne Diebel said, “What a blessing we have in Columbus that brings 3,000 women together for a day of worship and community.”

For more information about the 2017 Catholic Women’s Conference, please go to http://www.columbuscatholicwomen.com/.

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy CommunionContributors Max Maksimoski and Theresa Moore

 Extraordinary, adjective   1. Beyond what is usual, ordinary, regular, or established   2. Exceptional in character, amount, extent, degree, etc.; noteworthy; remarkable” (Dictionary.com).

Three “Liturgical Ministers” play a prominent role in the celebration of the Mass in addition to the Priest: the Altar Servers who assist the Priest, the Lectors who do the readings, and the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) who assist in the Distribution of the Precious Body and Blood. Technically speaking, the reason EMHC’s are called “extraordinary” is due to the first definition. Priests and deacons are “ordinary” Ministers. The Laity who assist the Ordinary Ministers in the Distribution of Communion are, therefore, Extraordinary.

At least six EMHC’s are needed to assist the Ordinary Ministers in distributing Communion at each of five regular weekend Masses. We have nearly 200 EMHC’s at St. Matthew with each person scheduled to serve in this role about once every four to six weeks.

As the Coordinator for the EMHC, I would like to say the parishioners who participate in this ministry fit the second definition above. However, there is one group within EMHC’s that shares a unique responsibility. These EMHC’s, called InHome EMHC’s, bring Communion to the homebound of our parish who cannot make it to weekend Mass. This ministry contains five groups. Two groups go to people’s homes and three groups go to assisted living facilities. For some to whom they minister, they will be the only person who visits them for the weekend or longer. The InHome EMHC’s distribute Communion, but they also distribute love, friendship, and mercy and attend to the needs of the “least of our brothers and sisters.”

“I have been visiting the residents at Sunrise for several years and after each visit I am just as humbled as I was the very first time I shadowed an associate for training. I have always felt that we have so much to learn from our elders and this would be my golden opportunity to gain that wisdom that they so graciously want to share. I have been introduced to other family members, have walked down memory lanes sharing stories and pictures, and have even met family pets,” said Theresa Moore, InHome EMHC.

If interested in becoming an EMHC (in church or to the homebound), contact me at rmaksimoski@stmatthew.net.

THE LEDGERMay 2016 Issue 2 ❖ Page 9

What the Adoration Chapel Means to MeIt was quiet and peaceful. The dim lights glowed on my face. People were praying to the amazing Lord. I was in the greatest place on Earth, the Adoration Chapel. When I was in the Adoration Chapel, I felt that Jesus was telling me to come and pray to Him more often. It felt as if the whole world finally had color in it. His grace was so soothing in my heart. It felt as if my heart had been sick from sin and His grace was the only cure. It’s so awesome just to be able to go. I feel blessed with everything I have, but when I’m there I feel that the awesome Lord is telling me to give whatever I can to help those who don’t have what they need. That little Adoration Chapel helps me to be close to the Lord our God. The Lord doesn’t care what you look like, He just wants you there.

– By Anna Sergio, Grade 4

My heart was pounding and my stomach had butterflies. I was so nervous, but at the same time, joyful. I walked into the one and only Perpetual Adoration Chapel. I saw the eyes of Jesus Christ. I heard the whispers of forgiveness. When I sat down the first thing I prayed for was my forgiveness and how sorry I was for my sins. Next, I prayed for family and friends. Finally, I just talked to God about my great day. I thanked Him so much for helping me with everything I was having trouble with. I am so thankful and delighted that the Church made an Adoration Chapel for the parish to spend time in.

– Carmen Lacey, Grade 4

Recently, St. Matthew has been taking a step further in our faith. We’ve been going to Adoration! Adoration means deep love and respect. Our Church teaches that going to Adoration is a way to show respect to Christ.

– An excerpt of a reflection by Grace Ettenhofer, Grade 7

The first time I went, I really did not feel anything special. It still felt peaceful and prayerful, but it just felt like normal praying. Now that I have gone a few times, my view on it has completely changed. I feel like Jesus is standing right next to me and praying with me whenever I enter the chapel. Now I understand that Jesus’ body is present in the Eucharist. The last time that I went, I felt a deep connection and full of Christ. It helps me realize that Jesus is the answer to everything. Whenever I go in there, a huge weight is lifted off my shoulders.

– An excerpt of a reflection by Grace Nordmoe, Grade 7

Adoration is really a gift in which we can grow closer to God. I recommend you go and try it. – An excerpt of a reflection by Mikey Roach, Grade 7

THE LEDGERPage 10 ❖ Issue 2 May 2016

Continuing Catechism Opportunities for St. Matthew ParishionersSometimes finding opportunities to continue learning the Bible beyond Confirmation can be challenging. However, in a Q and A with Lorraine Curtin, coordinator of Bible Study classes here at St. Matthew, we get an inside look at the classes and opportunities available for adults to continue growing their education and faith.

Q: What is the mission of the Bible Study classes?

A: Our mission is to provide the opportunity for each adult parishioner to make sense of the Bible and experience the life-changing power of God’s Word.

Q: How often are classes held, and how many participants are there?

A: Studies are usually held weekly from 4 to 24 weeks in length. Longer studies begin in the fall while shorter studies start at any time. There are small discussion group sizes from 6-15 participants based on location and type of study. Classes can be offered in the morning, afternoon or evening to accommodate a wide array of schedules.

Q: Are there any trainings or classes scheduled over the summer?

A: A Facilitator Training Session was held in the summer of 2015 for 27 participants using the study Walking Toward Eternity: Daring to Walk the Walk.

Q: Where are classes held?

A: Starting in the summer of 2015, studies were able to be offered in the home, as well as in the Undercroft at church. The videos for the lessons are streamed to the home computer or TV and can be accessed on a computer, tablet or smartphone, as well.

Q: What have been some of the most recent lessons covered?

A: Because of the content from Ascension Press (evangelization.com), Formed (formed.org) and Word on Fire (wordonfire.org), we have been able to offer a variety of lessons and topics, such as The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation, The Mystery of God: Who God is and Why He Matters, and Peter: Cornerstone of Catholicism, to name just three. This past year, we offered 18 studies with over 350 participants.

To learn more about classes or training opportunities, please visit the church website at stmatthew.net, and click the Bible Study link to see the list of our current offerings. Please check the site often as updates are made frequently.

Testimonials from past participants:From Kellie – “I have attended studies at St. Matthew since 2007. My journey began purely academic and apologetic, but has grown

into such a love for my faith, the Mass, and all the other treasures that were hidden to my eyes and heart. God clearly allows each of us to learn about him and his love for us at our own pace. Each session, each year has brought new friends to share with and learn from. The joy on the faces of each participant as we share our thoughts is amazing. We could talk for hours!”

From Marlene – “The Foot Steps of God – Moses has helped me deepen my awareness, heighten my curiosity, and expanded my focus on the

Bible; and fire up my initiative to become more studious of the Bible. It walks you through the steps, the symbolism of the early sacraments and rituals that we can see being celebrated at Mass every day and in the sacraments. Steve Ray makes this Bible study come to life in a fun and entertaining way; you will feel that he takes you on a private and exotic trip to forbidden places.”

If you have any questions or would like to facilitate a study in your home or at church, please contact Lorraine Curtin at 614-946-7585 or lorraine.curtin@icloud.com.

THE LEDGERMay 2016 Issue 2 ❖ Page 11

Parish Staff Spotlight: Father James OgurchockQ: Where are you from? What is your educational background?A: I grew up in Akron, OH. I graduated from St. Mary, now known as St. Vincent St.

Mary. When I was 17 years old, I came to Columbus for college and have been here ever since. I attended St. Charles, and I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy.

Q: What did you do after you graduated? A: I attended Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Cincinnati for my post-graduate and

Teaching Degree. I taught at Bishop Hartley until 1965. Next, I went to Bishop Ready to do a principal internship. I then went to Bishop Rosecrans (Zanesville) to be principal for five years. Afterwards, I then became the Assistant Superintendent of the 12 diocese high schools. This job involved administrative work, and I did this for nine years. Afterwards, I knew I needed to get back into contact with the people. After completing my Chaplaincy Training at Children’s Hospital, I served as Chaplain at Mt. Carmel East Hospital for 28 years.

Q: How did you become active at St. Matthew? A: I did not live in a Rectory while at Mt. Carmel East, since working weekends there precluded also helping in a parish on

weekends, so I bought a condo in Gahanna, and have lived there now for 23 years. After retiring from the hospital eight years ago, I began assisting here at St. Matthew, along with several other places in the area. However, I consider our parish my primary responsibility.

Q: What might surprise people about you? A: People (along with myself) were surprised that I became a priest as I was very interested in medicine, law and architecture.

Some might not know that I have two older sisters who became Sisters of St. Joseph in Cleveland and a brother, Fr. John, a Maryknoll Priest in Bolivia for 51 years. All three are deceased.

Q: What are your hobbies? A: I love golf. I also enjoy music. I have a CD player that can hold 51 CDs! I have it full of CDs like Glen Miller, Sammy K, the

Dorsey Brothers, light classical and opera. I also used to travel every year to Bolivia to see my brother. Q: Is there a charity that is close to your heart? A: A parishioner is working on compiling my homilies into a book. All royalties will go to an organization in Bolivia called DAVOSAN

(www.facebook.com/davosanbolivia). Bolivia is a 3rd world country and hospital pharmacies have very few drugs on hand. Also, all medical expenses and medications must be paid for up front. DAVOSAN buys meds wholesale and makes sure that those who are desperately poor in the community can get the medicine they need. This charity was dear to my brother.

Q: Anything else you would like to share with the parishioners at St. Matthew?A: In April 1, 2013, I hurt my arm and ended up with a blood clot and pneumonia. My heart, kidneys and lungs were failing,

and I was on life support. We were told that it would be impossible for me to survive. My Brother would fax Fr. Sill and keep everyone aware of my condition. I think it is a miracle that I was healed and believe it was because of prayers of this parish.

St. Matthew Confirmation Mass May 20, 2016St. Matthew School Commissioning June 6, 2016St. Matthew School Baccalaureate Mass June 7, 2016  Graduation  Graduation Dinner and 8th Grade Dance following in Noble Center and Hutta, respectivelyCatholic Inquiry Series June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, August 9, 2016 Danny’s Day June 25, 2016 Catholic Kidz Camp June 27 to July 1, 2016Camp KRIC June 10-July 15, 2016Protecting God’s Children Class June 27, 2016St. Matthew Festival July 21-23, 2016

Upcoming Events

Please refer to the website or bulletins for further details on times and locations.

Our Parish Mission...

St. Matthew Mission Statement:In Baptism,

we are committed to follow and imitate Jesus Christ, to hear and proclaim the Word of God,

to participate in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church,

to nurture a life of prayer, to hunger and thirst for justice, and to practice the commandment of Love.

One Parish. One Family. One Journey. One parish committed to Jesus Christ,

His teachings, His Church. One family seeking to support each other

in faith, hope, and love. One journey towards eternal life in heaven.

St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church

807 Havens Corners Road, Gahanna, OH 43230614-471-0212

www.stmatthew.net

Social Media Updates:Follow the Parish, School and PSR Programs

on Facebook by liking:St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic ChurchSt. Matthew Catholic SchoolSt. Matthew Parish School of Religion

Parish Office and Clergy: 614-471-0212, http://www.stmatthew.net/about-us/our-staff

Fr. Theodore K. Sill, PastorFr. Ryan M. Schmit, Parochial VicarFr. Michael Nimocks, In Holy ServiceFr. James Ogurchock, In Holy ServiceDeacons:Rev. Mr. Joseph MeyerRev. Mr. Larry Koebel

Parish Staff: 614-471-0212Business Manager, Leo GrimesDirector of Evangelization, Jenna ZinsDirector of Athletics, Eileen Buzenski 614-478-8533Director of Information, Robert BuzenskiDirector of Music, Dawn Shininger ext. 1117Parish Administrative Assistant,

Darlene RotellaParish Administrative Associate,

Hillarie MichaelsParish Secretary, Mary OttingParish Operations Coordinator, Beth VonauPastoral Associate, Mary ThompsonRCIA, Jennifer CabeStewardship and Safe Environment Coordinator,

Karen LackeyYouth Minister, Travis Burtch 614-471-7556School Principal, Susan Maloy 614-471-4930Parish School Of Religion, Coordinator: Sherry Schoenstein 614-471-2067Secretary, Malinda MoloneyPreschool Coordinator, Julie RatliffCharitable Works: 614-471-5320

Next Issue Info:We plan to have our third issue available to the parish by the middle of August 2016. If you have a story you would like to share or if you want us to cover a story or event for you, please contact Karen Lackey at klackey@stmatthew.net. Feedback is welcome!