9:00 pm - St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church

2-18-07
St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Parish
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)
Pastoral Staff — Full Time
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Rev. Joel Fortier – Pastor, [email protected]
Rev. Mark Cote – Associate Pastor, [email protected]
Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm. – Weekend Assistant
Rev. Mr. William Worden, D. Min. – Deacon, ext. 105
Rev. Mr. Chuck Lane – Deacon, ext. 220, [email protected]
Rev. Mr. Jim Breen – Deacon, 630-357-4853, [email protected]
Rev. Mr. Larry Kearney Deacon, ext. 225, [email protected]
Gerry Czerak – Business Manager, ext. 106, [email protected]
Corinne Seguin-Dart – Director of Junior High Youth Ministry,
ext. 117, [email protected]
Patti Dougherty – Director of Religious Education,
ext. 109, [email protected]
Julie Frazier – Liturgy and Music, ext. 111, [email protected]
Robert Frazier – Liturgy and Music, ext. 112, [email protected]
Jim Melton – Director of High School Ministry,
ext. 123, [email protected]
Jan Olah – Director of Pastoral Care, ext. 124
Chari Rosales – Director of Adult Education & RCIA ext. 138,
[email protected]
Michael Ryder – Director of Outreach, ext. 121, [email protected]
Saturday reconciliation is available after 8:30 a.m.
Mass, 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., or after the 4:30 p.m. Mass
in the Reconciliation Room of the Chapel. Fr. Joel
and Fr. Mark are 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 two Sundays each
month at a 1:45 p.m. service. On selected dates, Baptisms are celebrated at weekend Masses. Parents are
required to attend a two-part awareness and renewal
program prior to the Baptism. Call the Church Office
a few months in advance to make arrangements.
Matrimony
Audrey Casey, BSN, Parish Nurse, ext 104, [email protected]
Felicia Lawlor, M.S., R.N., Parish Nurse, ext 104, [email protected]
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.
Support Staff — Full Time
Religious Education
Nancy Cirmo – Religious Education Assistant, ext. 118, [email protected]
Lori Culberson – Liturgical Assistant, ext. 120, [email protected]
Kathy Ferguson - Receptionist, ext. 100, [email protected]
Diane McQueen – Parish Assistant, ext. 101, [email protected]
Anne Schultz – Outreach & Adult Faith Formation Assistant, ext. 113,
[email protected]
Angela Tuttle – Liturgy Assistant & Communications Coordinator,
ext. 110, [email protected]
Call the 305-6318 to register.
Pastoral Care Staff — Part Time
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 355-8980.
Counseling Service
Call Samarian Interfaith 357-2456 or Jan Olah,
Pastoral Care 355-8980 x 124.
Support Staff — Part Time
Pat Berkhout – Evening/Saturday Receptionist, ext. 119, [email protected]
Marge Coronado – Evening Receptionist, ext. 119, [email protected]
Marilyn DeMeo – Database Coordinator (T/Th), ext. 107, [email protected]
Jorge Gonzalez – Custodian
Sue Sportiello – Accounts Payable (M/W), ext. 107, [email protected]
Ted McKeown - Facility Coordinator, ext. 133, [email protected]
Theresa Sheliga – Sacristan Coordinator, ext. 116
Lynne Vehlewald – Librarian, ext. 125, [email protected]
Pastoral Leadership Community
Ivan Deatsch
Pam Foster
Guy Francesconi
Julee Gard
Steven Grumbine
Dan O’Grady
Ray Vogt
Commission Facilitators
Worship
Parish Life
Faith Formation
Administration
Service
Stewardship
Gwen Wells
Lorraine Katz
Dave Otto
Phil Meno
Sunday Nursery
Nursery care is available for your child age one
(must be walking) to four at the 9 & 10:45 a.m. Mass.
For more information call the church office.
Liturgy Schedule
Daily
(Monday — Friday)
Rosary — 8:10 a.m.
Mass — 6:30 & 8:30 a.m.
(Saturday)
Mass — 8:30 a.m.
Weekend
Saturday Vigil — 4:30 p.m.
Sunday — 7:30, 9:00, 10:45 a.m.,
& 12:15 p.m.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every first
Friday of the month 9 a.m. — Noon.
Dear Friends,
Again we hear in the scriptures today a kind of
detachment and blessedness that can only come from
being centered and grounded in God as we heard last
week. We hear of a detachment from revenge that
allows us to love even our enemies. That would truly
be a blessing for our lives and our
“ For the measure world.
Such a person is seen in David, in
with which you the first reading. King Saul, who has
become jealous of young David, is
measure will
hunting him with the intention of
in return
taking his life. David actually gains
be measured
the upper hand as Saul is delivered
into his hands at night while they
to you.”
sleep. David demonstrates that he
could have taken the King’s life, but
more he demonstrates his faithfulness to God and does
not take the King’s life, “the Lord’s anointed.”
David becomes a type of Jesus and what Jesus
teaches us in the gospel today, “to love your enemies,
do good to those who hate you.” At some point we have
to turn the cycle of violence around, we have to stop
violence.
Just because people are obnoxious to us doesn’t
mean that we have to let ourselves be infected by that
toxic energy and descend to the lowest common
denominator and be obnoxious to them. Rather than
wish people evil, to be malevolent; we can wish them
well, to be benevolent, wishing that they would change
and to pray for them as the Lord teaches.
That does take a certain grounded, centeredness in
God doesn’t it? To be so free and detached from our
impulse for revenge or to strike back, is to be so sure of
ourselves as a child of God, that we can be like Jesus in
his response to those who persecuted him.
It is one of the hardest teachings of Jesus, and yet it
is core to the Christian faith. I don’t care if violence
comes from the “extreme left” or the “extreme right”,
to the extent that they both resort to violence, they are
not different. Only Christianity, with its core teaching
from the gospel today offers us a truly unique position
that can bring hope to a war-torn world.
To do this will demonstrate that we are “children of
the Most High.” The gospel ends today on this foreboding note: “For the measure with which you measure will
in return be measured to you.”
This is true about our environment as well as our
relations with each other. Violence to Mother Earth and
to each other must end if we are to ever enter the Kingdom of God.
In the Peace of Christ,
Seventh Sunday in
Ordinary Time
February 18, 2007
Merciful and gracious is the Lord,
slow to anger and abounding in kindness.
— Psalm 103:8
This coming Wednesday, February 21 is
Ash Wednesday. Services are as follows:
6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.
Masses with the distribution of ashes
12:00 - 12:15 p.m.
Prayer Service with the
distribution of ashes until 1:00 p.m.
4:30 p.m. Prays/Praise Event
with John Angotti
the distribution of ashes planned
especially for families and young children
7:30 p.m. Prays/Praise Event
with John Angotti
and the distribution of ashes
Worship Commission
Videographers
Wanted
We are in need of a few people
that can operate a video camera
during our Prays/Praise Events
and other special liturgies
and concerts. If you are
good with a video camera and would be available
for a couple of these occasions, please contact
Lori Culberson at 355-8980, ext. 120.
Haiti Music Mission Coffee House
All are invited to a Coffee House performance
by the Haiti Music Mission Team to raise funds for
their upcoming mission to Duchity. The Coffee
House will be Saturday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the
Lighthouse. Come enjoy some great music, tasty
hors d’oeuvres, and wonderful Haitian coffee, of
course! A freewill donation will be taken.
Instruments for Haiti
We are still in need
of more instruments for
the music mission to Haiti
on March 22. We are in particular
need of more trumpets, trombones and recorders.
If you have any instrument that you can donate
please contact Robert Frazier in the Music & Liturgy
Office at 355-8980 x112. Thank you for your help.
John Angotti at St. Thomas
There is a posting on our web site about our visiting musical artist John Angotti and the dates that he
will be with us at St. Thomas. Go to
www.stapostle.org, then select News & Information
and Worship Commission News.
John will be here this coming week, February
21 for the 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday services and next weekend, February 24 and 25 for the
Saturday 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 9:00 and 10:45 a.m.
and 8:00 p.m. Masses.
John’s New CD — It’s Here!
John has just completed a brand new album entitled, Stand in the Light. It is a wonderful collection
of inspiring song that is sure to stir your faith. It will
be for sale when John is with us this coming week.
February 18, 2007 — Page 4
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
THE SAYINGS OF JESUS—Those people considered to be wise or good have, throughout the centuries and around the world, had their sayings collected
to preserve their memories and their good works. Recently, we have experienced this with people like
Gandhi or Mother Teresa. It was no different for the
first followers of Jesus. His teaching in today’s Gospel (which follows last week’s Beatitudes) comes
from what scripture scholars call a “sayings” source.
It is unlikely that Jesus would proclaim these sayings
with such rapid-fire delivery; his followers would
have had a difficult time grasping, remembering, and
living them. Rather, the New Testament authors and
their communities remembered and reflected on the
many things Jesus said, and preserved them in passages like today’s Gospel to help us know and understand what was at the heart of Jesus’ message.
THE MEASURE YOU WILL MEASURE—The
readings today all resonate with the message of today’s Gospel, urging us to have compassion for others and to treat them as we would wish to be treated.
David spares Saul’s life because he refuses to play
God and condemn his adversary. He understands that
God will repay him a hundredfold for his compassion.
Paul urges his followers to recognize themselves
as spiritual beings, capable of responding in a Christlike way in all situations. He knows that once we
come to recognize the blessings of a spiritual life, we
will embrace it fully.
Jesus, understanding human nature, gives us
good reason to follow his difficult commands. Those
who do so will be blessed beyond imagining! “[G]
ood measure packed together, shaken down, and
overflowing, will be poured into your lap” (Luke
6:38). It’s a promise—the same promise given to
David in the desert of Ziph, to Paul in the blinding
light at his conversion, and to Jesus on the cross. We
have no choice but to believe it, too, if we are to save
ourselves—and our world.
Today’s Readings: 1 Samuel 26:2, 7–9, 12–13, 22–23; Psalm
103:1–4, 8, 10, 12–13; 1 Corinthians 15:45–49; Luke 6:27–38
Copyright © 2006, World Library Publications. All rights reserved.
Pray For Our Parish
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
God Most High,
merciful and kind,
even to the wicked and ungrateful,
you have revealed in your only Son
the full measure of your love,
boundless and unconditional.
Create in us a new heart,
that we may love even our enemies
and bless those who do us wrong,
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, you son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God for ever and ever.
Amen.
From: Prayers for Sundays and Seasons, Liturgy Training Publications.
www.ltp.org
For the sick…
Baby Starr Hilliard, daughter of Sam & Laura
Patrick Keener, son of Maureen & Al
Sherrie Misrac friend of the Stone family
Patrick Rockowitz, son of Lynda
Margaret Breitzmann mother of Judy LaPorte
Wendy Peterik, friend of Paulette Pekula
Michael Hart, brother of Ed
Brian Arabia, friend of Joanne Wade
Irving Hansen, friend of Jim & Karen Biegon
George Spaeth, father of Cathy Piehl
Bobby Larson, James McGee, Joshua Dylan, & Katie
Kushner from Oswego
For the deceased…
Reggie Tuazon, husband of Tess
Blanche Dahlin, mother of Patricia Leach
Gene Scott, uncle of Bill Dougherty & Nancy Trattner
Ann Cook, mother of Jane Barnes
Kevin Landek, son of Rich & Vickie
Tiffany Urso, Katie Merkel, Matthew Frank and
Jessica Naton
For those recently married...
Tracy Kahan & Joe Anemone
Mass Intentions
Monday, February 19, 2007
8:30 †Anne Battisto, by Vito Battisto
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
8:30 †Tex Strong, by John & Pat Huff
Today’s Readings
Friday, February 23, 2007
8:30 †Hilda Heck, by The Myers Family
First Reading — David found Saul in a deep sleep,
but would not harm him (1 Samuel 26:2, 7-9, 12-13,
22-23).
Psalm — The Lord is kind and merciful (Psalm 103).
Second Reading — We shall bear the image of the
heavenly Adam (1 Corinthians 15:45-49).
Gospel — Give to everyone who asks of you. Lend
expecting nothing back (Luke 6:27-38).
Saturday, February 24, 2007
4:30 †Malcolm Rovtar, by Family
Readings for the Week
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
8:30 †William Hurley, by Al & Nanette Wild
†Joan Hansa, by Eleanor & John McNicholas
Sunday, February 25, 2007
7:30 †Pearl Damore, by The Purpura Family
†Ann & Bud Hjorth, by The Hjorth Family
9:00 St. Thomas Choir, by Ann Schultz
†Eugene L. Meluch, by Lee & Anne Gibson
10:45 †Lenore McCulley, by Maureen Deneen
†John Diesesr, by Jim & Mary Jo Breen
12:15 For the People of St. Thomas
Mon:
Tues:
Wed:
Sir 1:1-10; Mk 9:14-29
Sir 2:1-11; Mk 9:30-37
Jl 2:12-18; 2 Cor 5:20 — 6:2; Mt 6:1-6,
16-18
Thurs: 1 Pt 5:1-4; Mt 16:13-19
Fri:
Is 58:1-9a; Mt 9:14-15
Sat:
Is 58:9b-14; Lk 5:27-32
Sun: Dt 26:4-10; Ps 91; Rom 10:8-13; Lk 4:1-13
Page 5 — February 18, 2007
Faith and Spiritual Formation Commission
Ukrainian Easter Eggs
The Answer is… New Wine!
Tania Blanco, a member
of St. Thomas’ Celebration
of the Arts Ministry, will
demonstrate the art of
Ukrainian “pysanky,”
decorating eggs with different patterns
and styles using the wax-resist technique.
Many of the symbols and motifs used have
Christian origins
The demonstration will take place in the Gathering Area at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6. Examples
from Tania’s own collection of pysanky will be on
display. There will also be a mini hands-on workshop
after the demonstration.
To register, call Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith
Formation Office at 355-8980 x138.
Q: How does one take steps to develop the
spirituality of our own life?
A: New Wine
Q: How can we learn more about the meaning
and history of the Creed that we recite every
Sunday at mass?
A: New Wine
Q: How can I learn more about the history of
the Catholic Church and the role of the
sacraments in this 21st Century world?
A: New Wine
Q: Where do I turn to better understand how to
conduct a prayer service or a theological
reflection for my ministry where I volunteer?
A: New Wine
C.A.R.E. CORNER
For Jews living at the time of Jesus, their
“religion” influenced every aspect of their lives.
Their worship and prayer practices mirrored
long-established religious traditions. How they
dressed fell within the boundaries of their religious parameters. What they could and could not
eat, how the food was prepared and who they
could eat with were all determined by religion.
Every aspect of daily life was influenced by their
religion.
Jesus tried to introduce a shift in this understanding. For Jesus, religion wasn’t so much
about rules as it was about relationships; relationship with God and with others. Laws were
important for maintaining a civil society, but
compassion, empathy and love were critical for
creating a humane society. Religion wasn’t supposed to be a system of restrictions which instilled fear. It was supposed to be a place and a
way to experience the love of God.
February 18, 2007 — Page 6
What is New Wine? It’s an educational and faith
formation program sponsored by the diocese and
supported by the parish to help you, and any of
us, to learn more, understand more, and have
more confidence in ourselves as members of the
Body of Christ. It can make a big difference in
your life – it has in mine!
Gerry Czerak
Come Away with Me
In the gospels, Jesus is
repeatedly reported to take
quiet time apart for prayer.
He invites us to do the same.
Meditation time will be set
aside in the Chapel from
11:30 a.m. to noon on the
Tuesdays of Lent – February
27, March 6, 13, 20, 27 and
April 3. Take prayerful
advantage of your lunch
break and feed the hunger
in your soul.
ANNUAL WOMEN'S RETREAT
February 23 through 25
Ladies, get away from the dreary days of winter into a world of
"Joy" at the Sixth Annual Women's Retreat to be held February 24-6
at the lovely, peaceful Carmelite Center in Darien. All delicious
meals, snacks and spirits are provided for a totally relaxing
weekend in God's arms as the Spirit soothes and transforms
you. Comments from last year included, "It was just what
I needed. It fulfilled my heart, mind and soul." And
"It was powerful. Much grace and healing went on in me
this weekend. God was truly present." And, "I needed a break
from my fast-paced world and I received it here. It's not just what
you plan for us but what we decide to put into the weekend ~ that's
what we get out of it."
You won't want to miss it!
Call Carol Naveja at 369-3844 or Lois Sheridan: 668-4620
St. Thomas Marriage Enrichment Ministry Presents:
Renew your Gift of Marriage
Find new satisfaction and joy in your relationship.
Give each other the gift of this day and the time your marriage deserves.
Saturday, February 24
9:30am Check-In with Coffee
10:00am –2:30pm
Suggested Donation: $20 per couple
(includes lunch and materials)
St. Thomas the Apostle Gymnasium
Presented by: Dr. Barb Jarvis Pauls,
Pastoral Associate at Notre Dame Parish, and former
Associate Director for the Diocesan Family Ministry Office
Learn and practice new valuable techniques and strategies to enliven romance,
increase intimacy, and deepen the spirituality and bonds in your marriage.
To register, contact Chari Rosales, Director of Adult Faith Formation 355-8980x138
Page 7 — February 18, 2007
Religious Education
Pray for our First Communicants
TREC — High School Youth Ministry
We invite parishioners to pray for our children
making their First Communion this spring. You can
pray for a specific child by taking a hand print off the
narthex doors the weekend of February 24/25. The
hand prints are made from colorful construction paper
and will have the child’s first name on it.
“Communion” means “one with”. Please pray for this
child to become “one with Jesus and our faith community.”
What I did on my winter vacation…by Jim Melton. This winter I went to Haiti to try and adopt two
babies, David and Michael as part of the Dental Mission! We were making no progress in the adoption
process and I am pretty sure God didn’t want me to go
there because of my dental talents. I wondered what
my purpose for going was.
During the week we saw plenty of poverty, but
lived abundantly. We lived by a bell instead of a
watch. We complained about hot showers when people had to walk four hours to see the dentist. We
walked 45 minutes to get to church, down a mountain.
We saw kids in pain in the dentist chair that even
made Mr. Unemotional (me) cry. I saw plenty of God
during the week, but couldn’t figure out God.
Why was I there? I still don’t really understand
what God was doing, but I know that I had a great
time just being with God. We hope that happens in
TREC. Check it out. Come to APEX on Wednesday
from 7:30-9:00 or Sunday night Mass at 8:00. Or
check out www.trecministries.org for everything
TREC!
Kindergarteners as Church
The Kindergarteners had a wonderful church visit
with Deacon Larry instead of their regular Religious
Education class. They also had a brief visit to our
Care Pantry. Please stop by and see the bulletin
boards in the hallway outside the gym. Then find the
board that represents these youth as “church”.
Thank you to the following catechists and aides
who spend Saturday mornings sharing our faith with
these children.
* Marge Coronado
Carolyn Cuzzone
Jonathan Cuzzone
Burnice D’Souza
Cari Pellegrini
Natalie Storey
* Mary Szczap
Michelle Szczap
Sharon Yelaska
Stephanie Lange
* Grade Level Coordinators
Scouts Earn Religious Medals
Congratulations to the following Scouts who
worked very hard this year to earn their religious
medals.
Light of Christ Medals:
Nick Caruso and Scott Krason
Parvuli Dei (Children of God) Medals:
Michael Brancato, Nick Caruso, Evan Grove, Scott
Krason, Austin Lohr, Tshepo Makay, Joe Meyer,
Ryan North, Matt Reed, Zachary Swartz and Scott
Wernimont.
If you have any Boy Scout or Girl Scout is interested in the religious medal, please contact Patti in the
Religious Education Office, 305-6318, for details.
February 18, 2007 — Page 8
Discernment Retreat
Encounter With God's Call, held March
24-26 at Conception Seminary College, is a
discernment retreat for young men age 16
and older who are considering the vocation
to priesthood. This is an excellent opportunity to meet the seminarians as they share
their stories of responding to God's
call. This visit is free. For more information, please contact your Pastor or Fr. Burke
Masters, the Joliet Diocese Vocation Director at 815 834.4004/[email protected]
or Conception Seminary College at 660944-2886/Email: [email protected]
Featuring the Junior High
as Builders of the City of God
Please mark your calendars for the
following events for our youth:
All 7th graders are invited to attend, “It’s a Jungle
Out There”, on March 2, at Joliet Catholic Academy
from 5:30-9:00 p.m. The evening will feature an address by Ben Schumann, a Columbine shooting survivor. The evening will feature tribal activities with an
emphasis on fun and community. Please contact the
R.E office if there is interest in car pooling. Look for
the flyer on Monday night! This is a diocesan event,
which draws youth from all area parishes. An early
sign up is encouraged, so that youth can be grouped
with friends and acquaintances into friendly tribes!
The 6th grade diocesan event is scheduled for April
20, from 5:30-9:00 p.m. This event is entitled,
”American Idol: Who is your God?” It will be held at
Benet Academy in Lisle. Please contact the R.E. office if there is an interest in arranging a car pool. The
evening will include skits, music and food. Come on,
take a chance and check it out!
The puppeteers rocked the place at Saturday
morning’s Grandparent’s Program! The seniors,
juniors and freshmen crooned to such good oldfashioned melodies as “Amore”, and “White Suitcoat and Pink Carnation”. The seniors received their
Valentine’s carnations with grace and appreciation.
Our Junior High youth are credited, yet once again,
with making this old world a whole lot better. A special thank you to Mrs. Dunning, and Mrs.Falzone, for
organizing the event.
High Schoolers are warmly invited to volunteer at
upcoming events for the Junior High. Ms. Seguin
seeks assistance on the following projects;
Family St Paddy’s Day party March 16
Lenten Reconciliation mass March 12
Stations of the Cross rendition April 6. This event
is preceded by mandatory rehearsals Mar. 8, 13,
15, 20, 22 and Apr. 3 and 4. Most rehearsals are
scheduled for 5-6:30 p.m.
Please lend your hand at building our community
with your expertise and energy!
N
FU
GAME
S
“Shamrock
Shindig”
for all ages on
Friday, March 16
7:00 ~ 9:00 p.m.
At All Saints Catholic Academy’s gym
Cost: $5 per family,
a canned food donation
and a plate of goodies
to share. Drinks will
be provided.
Featuring a sing-a-long
with John Angotti
Sponsored by St. Thomas
Religious Education Office
Pick up a flyer to register.
Questions ?
Call 305-6318.
A
SN
CKS
COMM
U
NITY
Page 9 — February 18, 2007
Service Commission
Outreach & Social Justice
St. Thomas Lectors Host
Soup and Bread Night
The Lector Ministry of
St. Thomas the Apostle presents
the 14th Annual Soup and Bread
Night on Wednesday, February 28
from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the
St. Thomas gym (soup served 6:45 p.m.)..
Bring the family for a simple Lenten meal to
benefit Feed My Starving Children and the St. Thomas the Apostle Care Pantry. Non-perishable food
items or a freewill offering will be gratefully accepted.
Natural Family Planning: God’s Plan
for Love, Marriage & Sexuality
At 7:45 p.m. on Monday, February 19, 2007, Dr.
Robert Lawler will present a talk on Natural Family
Planning: God’s Plan for Love, Marriage & Sexuality. The lecture will be held in the Chapel at St. Raphael, 1215 Modaff Road, Naperville. Refreshments will
be provided. All are invited to attend.
Make the Connection
and Make a Difference
Volunteer Drivers Needed
Sharing Connections, a nonprofit organization in
Downers Grove, helps low income families in need by
sharing the abundance of others. Volunteer drivers
pick up donated furniture, household items, clothing,
and other goods to be distributed to these families.
The need for drivers for collection is GREATER
than ever. Are you willing to SHARE your time one
day a week? Or even one day monthly? Drivers are
the necessary link in providing goods to those in need.
Reach out and make the Connection! Please contact Dave Cain at 527-1973 or Ray Pankuch at 9040559. www.sharingconnections.org
Pregnant? Confused?
Need Help?
Please call
Woman’s Choice Services
630-261-9221
February 18, 2007 — Page 10
We Were Successful!
DuPage United went to
the Naperville City Council
on February 6 and asked the
Council for 30 minutes of
workshop time within the next
month to further educate the
Council on affordable housing
solutions that have worked in
other cities. It was known going into the meeting
that workshop time was fully booked for the next
two months.
The City Manager recommended the Council not
approve the request due to the already full schedule.
However, the Council granted the request and scheduled a presentation on March 13 at 3 p.m. This is an
important step to moving toward some concrete
solutions for affordable housing in Naperville.
Despite the unfavorable weather, about 50 people
attended representing 10 congregations (including 4
pastors), 3 agencies, and one bank. About half the
people were from St. Thomas. It was a great collective effort!
Don Derrow (from St. Thomas), Ahmed Qadeer,
Fr. Joel Fortier and Julie Carlson spoke on behalf of
the group and were very effective. The Council now
knows that this issue is important beyond a handful of
people at St. Thomas.
Thanks to those that braved the cold and snowy
weather … stay tuned!
Pastoral Care
50th Blood Drive Hosted!
St. Thomas Parish is sponsoring a blood drive
with Heartland Blood Center on Monday, March 5
from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.. This will be the 50th drive
held at St. Thomas. Since 1987, a total of 2,913 pints
of blood have been donated.
Interested donors are asked to call the office at
355-8980 for scheduling. It is suggested that donors
will have eaten within four hours of donation. They
must be at least 17 years of age, be in good health,
and feeling well. In-depth screening will take place
on donation day.
Appointments are strongly encouraged. Thank
you for your consideration.
St. Peregrine Chaplet
St. Peregrine is the patron saint of cancer patients.
We all know someone who has cancer. They ask us
to pray for them – and we do.
St. Elizabeth Seton parish is going to begin the
devotion to St. Peregrine. There is comfort in praying
together and the parish invites anyone who is interested to come and pray this prayer.
There is a specific prayer followed by three Hail
Marys, three Our Fathers and three Glory Be. The
prayer will take place in the upper level worship
space at St. Elizabeth Seton every Tuesday starting
February 6 at 6:45 p.m. followed by 7 p.m. Mass For
more information please call Kathy Ross Parish
Nurse at S.E.S. 420-6791.
Training Program Offered
for Hospice Volunteers
CNS Home Health and Hospice is seeking men
and women who are flexible, compassionate and
non-judgmental for their Volunteer Training Program. Hospice volunteers provide companionship
and practical assistance to people in the community
who are terminally ill. No special skills or medical
background required.
The hospice training will be held at the CNS
office located at 690 E. North Ave. in Carol Stream
on two consecutive Saturdays, March 3 and March
10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days. Lunch will
be provided. Applications must be received by
February 26.
Additional volunteer opportunities are available.
For more information call Kathleen Sanford,
Supervisor of Volunteers, at 630-933-7830.
Since 1987,
a total of 2,913
pints of blood
have been
donated.
Coming Event...
The St. Thomas Health Ministry Committee
and Adult Faith Formation are pleased to
announce the third and last presentation in the
Nutrition Series. This final event is The Importance of Weight Control and will be presented
at 7:30 p.m. on March 8 in the St. Thomas
lighthouse.
The featured speaker is Sean M. Rardin, M.D.
Dr. Rardin is board certified in Family Medicine. He has a background in fitness and has
worked for over 10 years as a personal trainer and
nutrition consultant. He is a member of the medical staff at Edward Hospital in Naperville, Central
DuPage Hospital in Winfield, and Rush-Copley
Hospital in Aurora. Rardin resides with his family
in DuPage County
Renew your New Year's Resolutions on
March 8!
Control your weight by increasing your activity.
Do you supersize portions?
Healthy Diets vs Fad Diets
What is good fat, bad fat?
This event is sponsored by Health Ministry
Committee and Adult Faith Formation. To ensure
seating, RSVP to Jan Olah in the Pastoral Care
Office 355-8980 x 124.
In the hospital?
Call the parish office 355-8980 and
one of our parish nurses or ministers
of care will visit, bring Eucharist or
assist you with your needs!
Page 11 — February 18, 2007
Stewardship
Commission
Stewardship… A Way of Life
Last Weekend’s stewardship of financial gifts...
Weekly Sunday Offertory (week 33)
Envelopes
Loose
Automatic Direct Debit
Mailed in & stock donations
Total for week
$26,631
23,807
2,824
$12,771
$3,692
$43,094
*Based on Collection Counters Reports
Fiscal Year (7/1 to 6/30) to date:
Weekly Average 7/1/06 to date:
Sunday Offertory Goal YTD
$1,156,518
$35,046
$1,122,000
Goal for Fiscal Year 7/1 to 6/30
Remaining for Fiscal Year
$1,768,000
$611,482
Diocesan Appeal updated Results
Parish Appeal Goal
Pledges received at St. Thomas
Remaining amount to goal
% of Goal Pledge to date
Dearest Lord,
teach me to be generous.
Teach me to serve you as you deserve;
to give and not to count the cost;
to fight, and not to heed the wounds;
to labor, and not to seek to rest;
to give of myself and not to ask for reward,
except the reward of knowing
that I am doing your will.
— St. Ignatius Loyola
$142,254
108,487
$33,767
76.3%
Evangelize with a Yard Sign
The Religious Education Office has available for a small donation Yard Signs.
These signs have this year’s message,
“What are you looking for?” with symbol
and “The Faith Community of St. Thomas
the Apostle.” Let’s show our neighbors
how proud we are of our parish! Stop in
the R.E. office to get yours! Questions?
Call our office, 305-6318.
February 18, 2007 — Page 12
Parish Life Commission
50 and Holding
Single Adult Ministry
Mature Adults Young at Heart
S.A.M. - Single Adult Ministry is a community
for all Christian single adults 45 and over. The ministry promotes balance in single life through spiritual,
service and social functions. It offers singles an opportunity to celebrate life.
If you are 50 or over, you are cordially invited to join
our group. We always welcome fresh ideas and new
friends. Couples and singles are welcome.
Upcoming meetings and activities include:
Feb. 21 Ash Wednesday
March 4 7:30 AM Sunday Mass for Living and Deceased members of 50 & Holding
Fri Feb 23 - Lenten Fish Fry at Chin’s 34th
St. Fishery in Lisle, Contact Yolanda
Sat. Mar 3- King and I at Drury Lane in Oakbrook,
Cost $26 for show only at 8:30, Contact Jack .
Mar. 7 1:00 PM Lunch TBD (to be determined)
Mar. 14 (1:00 PM——Afternoon meeting) Monthly
Meeting/Chili and Bingo.
CURRENT
Young Adult Ministry for
People in their 20’s and 30’s
Fri. Mar 9, Fish Fry at Elmer’s Doghouse in Montgomery, Contact Irene
Sat. Mar 17 -St. Patrick’s Day
Dinner and Dance,
Purchase your own ticket after
Masses and mention a SAM table,
Contact Lynn [email protected]
Fri. Mar 23 – Fish Fry at St. Peter and Paul
Contact Jack
Fri. Mar. 30 - Fish Fry at DuPage Inn in Downers
Grove Contact Yolanda .
We need you at our next Core Meeting on
Wednesday, Feb. 21 at St. Thomas at 7:30. Contact
Dave at 630 851-3444 X225 to become a part of the
leadership team for Young Adult Ministry. If you
want any other information about Current, check out
www.currentministry.com!
Finding Work Without Losing Heart:
A Retreat for Women and Men in Job Transition
When: February 20 and 21, this two-day retreat begins with registration at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday
and concludes with dinner Wednesday evening.
Where: Warrenville Cenacle, Warrenville, Il
Cost: The actual participant cost of the retreat is $95, covering materials, meals and overnight
accommodation in a private room at the Cenacle retreat center. For those who cannot afford $95,
a minimum fee of $15 is acceptable.
To Register: Call 312.906.9908 or visit www.ctcchicago.org
Understand the stages of a transition and how the transition process is
fundamental to human development.
Explore the spiritual and psychological dimensions of transition
“Who am I now?” “Where is God in all this?” “What’s next for me?”
Learn ways to pray and find peace during a time of transition.
Spiritual directors and bereavement counselors are available for one-on-one consultation.
Page 13 — February 18, 2007
Administration Commission
Jobs Ministry
Weekly Networking Meeting
Friday mornings at 9:30 a.m.
(after the 8:30 a.m. Liturgy) Lighthouse
The St. Thomas the Apostle Jobs Ministry
Invites you to attend
The February 2007 Jobs Ministry Meeting
Thursday, February 22, 7:00 p.m.
St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church
1500 Brookdale Road
Naperville, IL 60563
Phone: 630-355-8980
The speaker will be Mike Skarr, President and
CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce.
Mike’s presentation is titled “Jobs Transition – Let’s
Get Real”. Mike will explore what job transition
really means and how you should go about making
your transition lead to “landing” meaningful employment.
Mike has been very active in the Naperville community having served as President of United Way
and receiving the Distinguished Service Award in
Business from the Naperville Jaycees. Mike received
an engineering degree from Marquette University and
an MBA from Lewis University.
Please plan to attend this very informative presentation by Mike Skarr on Thursday evening February 22. Contact Jim Breen at [email protected]
for more info.
Jobs Ministry – Not Just Help Finding a Job
The following email was received from an individual
that has found our Jobs Ministry to be life affirming.
“ … I am a member of the Jobs Ministry. I wish to
say thank you for the opportunity to join this Ministry
as at the time that I became aware of your program,
I was deeply distressed with not finding any work. I
am pleased to advise that the Jobs Ministry opportunity changed my life completely around. I was almost
about to give up and decided that I would try the Ministry and was pleasantly surprised to find that there is
a way to continue and it is through prayer and the Jobs
Ministry.”
JOB RETREAT!
Finding Work Without Losing Heart:
A Retreat for Women and Men in Job Transition
(See page 13)
February 18, 2007 — Page 14
THE WEEK AHEAD
Monday, Feb 19
9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
4:!5—5:15 p.m.
Youth Choir Rehearsal, Church
6:00—7:15 p.m.
Handbell Rehearsal, Church
6:30—9:30 p.m.
Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
7:00—9:30 p.m.
Just Faith, Resource Center
7:15—9:00 P.M.
Healing the Soul, Rectory Basement
7:30—9:00 p.m.
Haiti Twinning Awareness/Comm, Lighthouse
7:30—9:00 p.m.
Justice & Peace, Meeting Room 4
7:30—9:00 p.m.
Meditation, St. Patrick’s Chapel
7:30—9:30 p.m.
RCIA Team, Meeting Room 2
Tuesday, Feb. 20
8:00—8:45 a.m.
Wholistic Practices, Gym
9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
10:00—11:00 a.m. Care Pantry, Lighthouse
4:30—5:45 p.m.
R. E. Classes at Brookdale School
6:30—9:30 p.m.
Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
7:00—9:30 p.m.
Adult Basketball, Gym
7:00—8:00 p.m.
Choir Pot Luck, Lighthouse
7:00—9:00 p.m.
Men’s Spirituality Group, Rectory Basement
7:30—9:00 p.m.
Charismatic Prayer, Meeting Room 2
7:30—9:30 p.m.
Choir Rehearsal, Church
Wednesday, Feb 21
ASH WEDNESDAY
6:30 & 8:30 a.m.
Masses
Noon-1:00 pm
Distribution of Ashes
4:30 p.m.
Praise/Prays Service
7:30 p.m.
St. Thomas Praise, Church
6:00—10:00 p.m.
ALPHA Course, Lighthouse
6:30—9:30 p.m.
Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
7:00—9:00 p.m.
Current Core, Resource Center
7:00—9:30 p.m.
Coed Volleyball, Gym
7:30—9:15 p.m.
Finance Committee, Senior Center
Thursday, Feb 22
9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
9:30—11:00 a.m.
Catechist Study Group, Meeting Room 4
6:00—7:30 p.m.
Trec Band, Church
6:30—9:30 p.m.
Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
7:00—10:00 p.m.
Jobs Ministry Lecture, Lighthouse
7:30—9:30 p.m.
Testify, Church
Friday, Feb 23
9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
5:00 pm thru weekend Women’s Retreat in Darien
Saturday, Feb 24
Women’s Retreat in Darien
8:30—10:30 a.m.
Ensemble Rehearsal, Lighthouse
8:30am-3:30 p.m.
Marriage Enrichment, Gym & Senior Center
8:30—11:45 a.m.
R.E. at All Saints Academy
9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area
9:00—10:30 a.m.
Men’s Christian Fellowship Sat., Resource Center
10:00--11:00 a.m.
Rainbows, Ministry Center
2:00—4:00 p.m.
Library Hours
Sunday, Feb 25
8:30am-12:30 p.m. Donut Sunday, Gym
9:00 & 10:45 a.m.
Masses, Children’s Liturgy of the Word thru 5th
grade, Ministry Center
6:30—8:00 p.m.
Quest, Ministry Center & St. Patrick’s
8:00—9:00 p.m.
TREC Mass, Church