May - June 2011 - Our Lady of Mercy
Transcription
May - June 2011 - Our Lady of Mercy
Our Lady of Mercy Parish May/Jun 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 2/3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 17 Ministries Calendar Exam Time Des Hommes et des Dieux The Most Misunderstood of All Deaths CCD and news The English-speaking Catholic Church of the Madrid Province Parish Priest Fr. Ron Ochylski office • 91-350-3449 home • 91-718-5571 Calle Drácena, 23 28016 Madrid • Spain www.ourladyofmercy.info [email protected] News & Reviews Patten attacks 'intolerant' secularists Putting on the Apron Jokes & Humor Directions: Bus *52*, 150, 14, 16 or 29. Metro line #9 stop at Pío XII exit: centro comercial Sunday Liturgy: 11:00 AM Office hours Tuesday from 16:00 to 20:00 Thursday from 9:30 to 14:30 Confessions: Sundays 13:00 after Mass or by appointment CCD Classes: Sundays 12.10 - 13:00 Choir practice: Sundays 10:15 inside the parish building. On Easter Sunday, the Day of the Risen Lord, Our Lady of Mercy increased by three new members in a joyous ceremony. Jessica, an American and baptized Lutheran, was received into the Church. Audrey, an adult Nigerian, was baptized, as was Delila a beautiful infant Nigerian girl, the daughter of Fred and Vidal, who were baptized at OLM last year. Subsequently the two adults, Jessica and Audrey, were confirmed, and later they received the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. (three first Sacraments the same day!) Mike Schneider – RCIA catechist Bible Study: 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month after Mass. Rosary: Sunday 10.30 in the small chapel Charismatic Prayer Group: Saturdays 18:00-20:00 Weekday Mass: Thursdays at 13:00 2 Ministries Calendar May 2011 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Mike Schneider 91-639-1564 Altar Servers Louise Aulbach 91-402-9465 Readers Louise Aulbach 91-402-9465 Fellowship Michele Martorell 91-759-5402 Meredith Slevin 91-775-69-62 1 2nd Sunday of Easter 8 3rd Sunday of Easter 15 4th Sunday of Easter 22 5th Sunday of Easter 29 6th Sunday of Easter Robert Freeman Nancy Deutman Michele Martorell Wally Casey Sarah/Mike Fellona Judy Macinnes Louise Aulbach Michele Martorell Judy Macinnes Blanca de Castro Sarah/Mike Fellona Marcel Adolphus John Buckley Michael Schneider Nancy Deutman Julie Hoare Sarah/Mike Fellona Wally Casey Judy Macinnes Louise Aulbach Michele Martorell Judy Macinnes Blanca de Castro Sarah/Mike Fellona Marcel Adolphus John Buckley Nancy Deutman Marcel Adolphus Wally Casey David Franklin John Buckley Robert Freeman Michael Schneider Frankie Sebastian Francisco Eugenio Oby Ainhoa Amaya Peter Oscar Dennis Lizzie Michaela Julio Karina Merino Samuel Abel Evarest Iheke John Buckley Michele Martorell Charlie Wilson Pastries Mahon Family Pastries Wilson Family Pastries Guillen-Merino Family Coffee Ross Family Coffee Melissa de Miguel Jorge Alba Gus Constanza Eduardo Patti Carbo Monica Pinel William Perales Ben Vergara Oscar Dennis Isabella Aston Elizabeth Aston Pastries Prado Diez Family Pastries Bermúdez Bennett Family Coffee Felicity Renshaw Coffee Alicia Espejo Coffee Fuen Zaballa Ushers Brian Douglas 669 440 156 TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC Greeters Deanna Mason 91-351-2334 Chike Ezike Deanna Mason Barbara LaHuerta Alberto Santandreu Julie Hoare º Schedule May 1 No CCD Congratulate newly baptized with Cava in patio after Mass May 7 First Confessions at 16:30 May 8 Children’s Mass Name Tag Sunday Marion Homage Bible Study Food collection May 20 ISM Confirmation mass with Bishop Camino May 13 ISM First Confessions May 29 Blessing of FHC children May 22 Bible Study with Fr. Jim (last one until October) May 19 ISM Confirmation Practice The Holy Father's General Intention of the Apostleship of Prayer for the month is: “That those who work in the media may always respect truth, solidarity and the dignity of each person.” The Holy Father's Missionary Intention for the month is: “That the Lord may grant the Church in China the capacity to persevere in fidelity to the Gospel and to grow in unity.” May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 3 Ministries Calendar Ju n e 2 0 1 1 5 The Ascension of the Lord 12 Pentecost Sunday 19 The Most Holy Trinity 26 The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ 3 July 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Robert Freeman Nancy Deutman Michele Martorell Wally Casey Sarah/Mike Fellona Judy Macinnes Louise Aulbach Michele Martorell Judy Macinnes Blanca de Castro Nancy Deutman Michael Schneider Marcel Adolphus John Buckley Nancy Deutman Louise Aulbach Marcel Adolphus David Franklin Wally Casey Robert Freeman Michael Schneider Robert Freeman Nancy Deutman Michele Martorell María José García Wally Casey Sarah/Mike Fellona Louise Aulbach Michele Martorell Judy Macinnes Blanca de Castro Wally Casey Michael Schneider Marcel Adolphus John Buckley Eugenio Olimpia Constanza Oscar Julio Frankie Lizzie Michaela Jorge Diego José Dennis Gus Sebastian Oscar Ainhoa Amaya Lizzie Michaela Sarah Beseler Isabella Aston Janet Walls Felicity Renshaw Felicity Renshaw Elizabeth Aston María José García Louise Aulbach Pastries Bejerano Family Pastries FHC Families Pastries Ross Cortez Family Pastries Meacham Family Pastries Volunteer needed Coffee Asón Family Coffee FHC Families Coffee Michele Weldon Coffee Cristina Tilve Coffee Volunteer needed Ushers Brian Douglas 669 440 156 TBC TBC TBC TBC TBC Greeters Deanna Mason 91-351-2334 Chike Ezike Deanna Mason Michelle Martorell Alberto Santandreu Barbara LaHuerta Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Mike Schneider 91-639-1564 Altar Servers Louise Aulbach 91-402-9465 Readers Louise Aulbach 91-402-9465 Fellowship Michele Martorell 91-759-5402 Meredith Slevin 91-775-69-62 José Oby Eduardo Peter Alba Susanna Swistunowicz Brian Douglas º Schedule June 4 FHC rehearsal at 16:30 in main chapel June 5 First Holy Communion at 10:45 June 11 ISM First Holy Communion June 12 FHC children process into Mass with Fr. Ron FHC reception in patio after Mass June 19 CCD graduation CCD Teacher’s Lunch The Holy Father's General Intention of the Apostleship of Prayer for the month is: “That priests, united to the Heart of Christ, may always be true witnesses of the caring and merciful love of God.” The Holy Father's Missionary Intention for the month is: “That the Holy Spirit may bring forth from our communities numerous missionary vocations, willing to fully consecrate themselves to spreading the Kingdom of God.” May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 4 Exam Tim e Fr. Ronald Ochylski | [email protected] Dear Parishioners, As we approach the end of the school year, we pray for the many students who are preparing for their exams. No one really enjoys taking exams except for those who know they will get a good grade. Did you ever wonder how well you know your parish? Would you dare take a little exam to see if you are a truly informed parishioner? Well, here it is. I will make it true or false to make it easier. I hope you do well, I really do. Good luck and God bless you, Fr. Ron ▪ 1. Our Lady of Mercy has been at our current location for 10 years now. ___ 2. Our Lady of Mercy has parishioners from over 25 different countries. ___ 3. Before Fr. Ron there was only one other pastor at OLM. ___ 4. OLM is one of the biggest European Englishspeaking parishes. ___ 5. More than 20 people make use of the Bible Study that OLM offers. ___ 6. There are over 130 children registered in our Religious Education program. ___ 7. OLM got its name from the school where we used to meet. ___ 8. OLM has been a personal parish since 1975. ___ 9. OLM has more than enough volunteers right now. ___ 10.The fastest growing number of parishioners are from the USA. ___ 11. OLM’s past charity event was called St. Patrick’s Charity Ball. ___ 12. Every parishioner is supposed to take a turn at serving pastries. ___ 13. The OLM web site has much of the information needed to pass this exam. ___ 14. OLM is a rich parish and more than 50% of parishioners use envelopes/bank transfers. ___ 15. OLM has a Mass during the week. ___ 16. There are other Catholic Masses in English in Madrid. ___ 17. There is a special breakfast deal just for OLM parishioners at the restaurant across the street called Kocina2. ___ 18. OLM has a food collection every third Sunday of the month. ___ 19. OLM has an outstanding choir. ___ 20. OLM is special because many parishioners are extremely generous and committed. ___ Answers are on page 11 May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 Volunteer URGEN TLY N eed ed! Every once in a while a parishioner asks me if they could use the "vast" resources of OLM to help a charitable cause. At those moments, I feel that I have failed as your parish priest because we, as a parish family, are directly in charge of a very important charity, namely, the Immigrant Fund of OLM. This charity is being neglected. How can we help those far away when the person we are sitting next to may be in great need? We have eyes but do not see. Don't get me wrong. Our parish has been incredibly generous in donating food during Lent. We also have a great response when we have a second collection. Barbara Lahuerta is wonderful is setting up and organizing our book sales. ISM has also been of great assistance, especially by donating their First Holy Communion collection to the Immigrant fund. However, a bus pass is very expensive and sometimes families are almost tossed out on the street. The monies go quickly. The vast majority of the "needy" are parishioners we know, many of whom had employment before the crisis and supported the parish. They are no longer able to do so. Every once in a while, a parishioner makes a contribution to the Immigrant Fund, but those monies are spent the same month they are deposited into the account. Lately, we have been relying on outside foundations to cover our most pressing needs. Our parish, in and of itself, is no longer the main entity that helps our own brothers and sisters in need. David Franklin has been the main person in making sure the funds are distributed fairly and that everyone is helped. He also weeds out the occasional insincere request. However, OLM needs a new volunteer to step up, This person will be the one to make sure our Immigrant Fund is, well, funded. They could ask for volunteers to hold bake sales, marathons, clothes drives, whatever. They would be the person to make the announcement informing the parish when we need to take up a second collection. They could have their own ideas, always keeping in mind, we don't have our own church building, so we need to clear special activities with the Spanish church. A while back, I begged for someone to coordinate a "bolsa de trabajo" and the response was quite frankly, dismal. A great deal of people tick off on their new parishioner registration "charity work" but 90 % of those have not come forward (at least to me or to the parish council). Something that we should all reflect upon. The bible says an act of charity covers a multitude of sins (see 1 Peter 4). Maybe God is calling you? I am sure God is calling at least 10 people of OLM to step up. Do you have the generosity to respond? I cannot do this alone any longer. Please don't do it to help me but instead your brothers and sisters in need. We shall share heaven together. Let me know if you really want to help. Don't tell me what you can't do but what you can do, OK? ▪ 5 D es Homm es et d es D ieux By Michael Schneider When we think of France, of things French, what often comes to mind? Paris, the Louvre Museum, haute couture, the jetset, Nicolas/Carla, well recognized brand names of fashion and cosmetics, Rolland Garros tennis, fine wines and champagnes, and French cuisine. All true and correct. Every mainstream current is at least partially offset by powerful latent countertrends. This is nature, this coincides with Newton´s three basic laws of physics. The Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, also called Trappists, characterized by the simple life of poverty, living in harmony with God and nature, ora et labora, prayer and work, had its origins in France in the 12th Century. It is also a totally French phenomenon, intrinsically French to the marrow. And it coexists in complete contrast to everything mentioned as typical French in the first paragraph. The idea of their founder Bernard of Clairvaux was to get back to basics: the Benedictines had become too soft and flabby- we have to be stricter, more serious. So they modified and tightened the Rule. The Cistercian monastic movement spread like wildfire. Within 25 years more than 300 Cistercian monasteries were founded in Christian Europe. This French phenomenon was also transferred to French Algeria seventy years ago with the founding of Our Lady of the Atlas Monastery in Tibhirine, in the foothills of the Atlas mountains. The movie ―Of Gods and Men‖, directed by Xavier Beauvois, was awarded the Grand Prize at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival. It´s protagonist was earlier a darkhorse Oscar candidate for the role of leading actor, but was crowded out by others of more recent films. The title comes from Psalm 82: 6-7, ―I have said, you are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High. But you shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes‖. And, in a nutshell, that´s pretty much how it went. The action takes place during the times of troubles of Algeria in the 1990s, when different Islamic radical groups vied for control of the rural areas, terrorizing the local populace. Despite their cultural and religious differences, the monks lived in solidarity and total harmony with their Muslim neighbors. As is customary of the Cistercian tradition, they lived by the sweat of their brow planting, sowing, weeding, watering, reaping, harvesting, threshing, canning, chopping and storing firewood, cooking and baking, dedicating their lives to agriculture, and also to the praise and glory of God, in community prayer, psalms and song, five times a day, at the toll of the bell. One monk was a medical doctor. They had a free health clinic, treating up to 150 patients per day. Basic medicines were supplied from France. The monks are friends of the local Muslim religious leaders, the imams, and the local poor. The terrorists come to the monastery to demand medicines and the help of the doctor to treat their wounded. Fr. Christian, the abbot, valiantly refuses, says no, and again no, our doctor is too old and sick, and cannot travel, and that we have no medicine. The last part is a white lie – he meant that the medicines in the dispensary did not belong to the monks, who freely live and poverty, owning nothing, and that this medicine was not to be used to heal wounded terrorists, but rather to cure the sick/poor of the local village. When the violence escalates, the local government authorities suggest to the monks that they leave asap, go back to France or elsewhere, because they cannot guarantee for their safety, the dangerous situation is beyond their control. As the plot thickens we see plainly the interaction of the human and the divine. Each monk has complex emotions and feelings, a mixture of bravery and reticence. In the daily chapter meetings the increasing dangers are discussed openly. Each monk humanly fears for his physical well being, knowing that torture and possible assassination are in store if they remain. Father Christian continues as true leader in the individual discernment processes, reminding his brothers that each monk can choose on his own, is free to leave, or to stay. In the end, after many meetings, discussions, and contemplation, all eight decide not to leave, that their mission is to remain here, they must not abandon their local adopted friends and culture. When questioned individually, every monk gives a reply that resonates with Peter´s response to Jesus´ question ―Do you also want to leave?‖ (John 6:67) ―Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.‖ The rebels come again, and all monks except one, are taken prisoner and subsequently beheaded. Why is this film such a box office hit in our current European environment which is so hostile, so caustic to anything Catholic? (In France alone 4 million movie patrons saw this flick.) All meritorious classical works of literature, stage and silver screen, have as their basic theme an evolution of the disposition of the protagonist(s), a noticeable change and improvement of character. We appreciate the monks´ dilemma, their progression from uncertainty, doubt and fear, to total conviction, they did what they had to do, what was right. We feel it, we sympathize with them, we respond emphatically ―YES‖. Thanks to the Cistercians, to all their members who helped spread Christianity thru the last 8 centuries. Their true and tried monastic tradition of service to our Church, has so often kept the Faith flourishing in dark times, and is still very much alive today. Chapeau also to the filmmaker Xavier Beauvois and his staff who remind us of all this. The Cistercian monastic tradition is only one more of the many reasons we can righteously be proud to be Catholic. ▪ May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 6 Suicid e - T he Most Mis und ers tood of All D eath s By Fr. Ron Rolheiser Death is always painful, but its pains are compounded considerably if its cause is suicide. When a suicide occurs, we aren't just left with the loss of a person, we're also left with a legacy of anger, second-guessing, and fearful anxiety. So each year I write a column on suicide, hoping that it might help produce more understanding around the issue and, in a small way perhaps, offer some consolation to those who have lost a loved one to this dreadful disease. Essentially, I say the same things each year because they need to be said. As Margaret Atwood once put it, some things need to be said and said and said again, until they don't need to be said any more. That's true of suicide. What needs to be said, and said again, about it? First of all that it's a disease and perhaps the most misunderstood of all diseases. We tend to think that if a death is self-inflicted it is voluntary in a way that death through physical illness or accident is not. For most suicides, this isn't true. A person who falls victim to suicide dies, as the does the victim of a terminal illness or fatal accident, not by his or her own choice. When people die from heart attacks, strokes, cancer, AIDS, and accidents, they die against their will. The same is true of suicide, except that in the case of suicide the breakdown is emotional rather than physical - an emotional stroke, an emotional cancer, a breakdown of the emotional immune-system, an emotional fatality. This is not an analogy. The two kinds of heart attacks, strokes, cancers, breakdowns of the immune-system, and fatal accidents, are identical in that, in neither case, is the person leaving this world on the basis of a voluntary decision of his or her own will. In both cases, he or she is taken out of life against his or her own will. That's why we speak of someone as a "victim" of suicide. Given this fact, we should not worry unduly about the eternal salvation of a suicide victim, believing (as we used to) that suicide is always an act of ultimate despair. God is infinitely more understanding than we are and God's hands are infinitely safer and more gentle than our own. Imagine a loving mother having just given birth, welcoming her child onto her breast for the first time. That, I believe, is the best image we have available to understand how a suicide victim (most often an overly sensitive soul) is received into the next life. Again, this isn't an analogy. God is infinitely more understanding, loving, and motherly than any mother on earth. We need not worry about the fate of anyone, no matter the cause of death, who exits this world honest, over-sensitive, gentle, over-wrought, and emotionally- crushed. God's understanding and compassion exceed our own. May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 Knowing all of this however, doesn't necessarily take away our pain (and anger) at losing someone to suicide. Faith and understanding aren't meant to take our pain away but to give us hope, vision, and support as we walk within it. Finally, we should not unduly second-guess when we lose a loved one to suicide: "What might I have done? Where did I let this person down? If only I had been there? What if ...?" It can be too easy to be haunted with the thought: "If only I'd been there at the right time." Rarely would this have made a difference. Indeed, most of the time, we weren't there for the exact reason that the person who fell victim to this disease did not want us to be there. He or she picked the moment, the spot, and the means precisely so that we wouldn't be there. Perhaps it's more accurate to say that suicide is a disease that picks its victim precisely in such a way so as to exclude others and their attentiveness. This should not be an excuse for insensitivity; especially towards those suffering from dangerous depression, but it should be a healthy check against false guilt and fruitless second-guessing. We're human beings, not God. People die of illness and accidents all the time and all the love and attentiveness in the world often cannot prevent a loved one from dying. Suicide is an sickness there are some sicknesses that all the care and love in the world cannot cure. A proper human and faith response to suicide should not be horror, fear for the victim's eternal salvation, or guilty second-guessing about how we failed this person. Suicide is indeed a horrible way to die, but we must understand it (at least in most cases) as a sickness, a disease, an illness, a tragic breakdown within the emotional immune-system. And then we must trust, in God's goodness, God's understanding, God's power to descend into hell, and God's power to redeem all things, even death, even death by suicide. ▪ Ronald Rolheiser, OMI a Roman Catholic priest and member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, is president of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas. He is a community-builder, lecturer and writer. His books are popular throughout the English-speaking world and his weekly column is carried by more than seventy newspapers worldwide. Q uiet Pleas e! Please do not linger around the church vestibule as there is a Spanish Mass at 12:30 and the Spanish parishioners need easier access to enter the church. Some people come to church early to pray so please try to keep your voices down. Better yet, let us all to be in the patio by 12:15 and not linger in the vestibule. THANK YOU! ▪ 7 Rem em ber in your Prayers For Liam O'Dea, Catharine Freeman’s brother, who is still battling cancer. Catharine is very grateful for your prayers. For all those suffering because of the economic crisis, especially for the homeless, the jobless and the immigrant. For Jessica Mattis, Sarah Fellona’s sister who died tragically in April. And for the family she left behind. For Josephine MacInnes, the mother of Judy MacInnes and all the elderly. For Joseph, an English-speaking seminarian studying in the diocese of Ávila. For the continued recovery of Mercedes Fernandez’s good friend Engracia. For Rafael Mazón who was seriously ill at the time of press. For Ifeyani’s father Frederick who died in Nigeria. For María José Garcia's mother. For Juan Cuenca and José Angel, and all who have cancer. For Maureen O’Kane, the mother of ISM teacher Nial O’Kane For Mary Gardner who was remembered in a hymnal dedication by Delories Dunn. For Teodora, the mother of our guitarist Carlos, who died suddenly of a heart attack. For Paquita, the mother of Paco and mother-in-law of Cindy Javoroski who was very ill at the time of press. In thanksgiving for the new Catholics welcomed at Easter: Jessica, Audrey, Delia, Desmond, Derick, Jesse Obinna, and Sofia Chidera. And in thanksgiving for the beatification of John Paul II. Sund ay Food Collection Sund ay Prog ram s Michele Martorell | 91 759-5402 Michele Martorell | 91 759-5402 The official Sunday for food collection is the 2nd Sunday of every month. This is the Sunday when parishioners can bring their donations of food to the altar at the Offertory or to the parish kitchen area. Our parish is very international with parishioners having varying needs. Our Sunday programs try to reach parishioners who need something in addition to spiritual well being. The economic crisis continues and all families are feeling it whether they are donating to the Food Collection or receiving food. During the past 12 months, unemployment has risen another 297,000 to a total of 4.9 million unemployed. This is 21.29% of the active Spanish population. As is the tradition in our parish, during this past Lenten season, we collected food every Sunday. Donations of food were brought to the altar during the Offertory or dropped off in the kitchen area before or after Mass. During this past Lenten season, the Boy Scouts provided very generous donations of food. This is another example of our young people becoming involved in the life of our parish. David Franklin oversees the distribution of food and witnesses the joy on the faces of our parishioners; those who give and those who receive. This activity does make a difference to the lives of our parishioners. Those who donate food are blessed with the gratification of knowing that they have helped someone. And those who receive are encouraged to pursue their dream of a better life in Spain. Because we know directly where the food goes, here are some suggestions of what we need the most. Vegetable oil, BRILLANTE RICE (most preferred brand), pasta, canned tuna, canned beans and stews, cookies, juices, canned meats, instant coffee. Easy open containers are most welcome. Our younger parishioners need single serving boxed juices which they can take to school during the week for their merienda/snack. An item of particular importance is FRESH OR CANNED FRUIT. Fresh fruit will be distributed and eaten immediately. Fresh fruit can be dropped off in the kitchen area any Sunday. ▪ In the morning before Mass, the volunteers who set up the patio for Fellowship tend to be from our Immigrant community. We make their work even more rewarding by providing an informal breakfast of bananas with hot drinks and/or galletas as needed. After Fellowship, our clean-up crew puts back the tables and chairs in the shed, stores additional tables in the garage, and cleans the patio. For those who could benefit from a meal before returning home after their volunteer work, we provide microwave meals that can be prepared in our kitchen area. Here is where we need help from our parishioners. We need volunteers to provide us with microwave meals. The microwave meals that are needed are those requiring no refrigeration. If you have wanted to volunteer to help, now is your chance. Drop off a few microwave meals in the kitchen area any Sunday! We greatly appreciate and thank Marianna for her coordination with the Eroski grocery store in her neighborhood. On Saturday evenings she collects food that Eroski can’t sell but that still has a good freshness date. Marianna delivers it to us on Sunday morning with the help of Mike Schneider. A very sincere thanks to Eroski for donating the yogurts, meat, cheese, milk, fruit, bread products, etc. Marianna also receives donations of meat from Campofrio for our food collection. She personally collects the meat and delivers it to OLM. When Eroski does not donate yogurts; Marianna and Maria Emma Duran provide them. Thank you Marianna and Maria Emma for your personal attention to those who need it. Thank you also to Charles who helps out in the kitchen each week. ▪ May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 8 Relig ious Ed ucation (CCD ) Nancy Deutman | [email protected] | 630 453 355 The May Children’s Mass will include our annual Marian Homage, with the PostConfirmation students doing the Readings and the students of Pre-FHC 1 and Pre-FHC 2 bringing up the Gifts and singing various parts of the Mass with the Choir. Thank you to their teachers, Julia IbuchiNjoku and Tiffany & Roland Brenninkmeijer. The June Children’s Mass will be the First Holy Communion ceremony. Thank you to Julie Hoare and her son, Manuel, for preparing the students again this year. On Saturday, the 7th of May at 5 pm, our FHC candidates will make their First Confessions in the main chapel with Fr. Ron. FOOD DRIVE – Remember to bring your food items on the Second Sundays (May 8th and June 12th). On the 8th of May, we will start pre-registration of returning students for the 2010-2011 CCD course beginning in September. We again offer the possibility of registration by e-mail to [email protected] (ONLY FOR CCD REGISTRATION). Otherwise, Nancy, Louise and Barbara will be on the patio after Mass on the 8th and 15th of May (and someone TBA after June 20th until August 1st) for pre-registration. We will ask you to verify your data, especially cell phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Then you will be given copies of the Religious Education agreement to be returned to Nancy with your payment. REBATE: The registration fee per family will be 30 Euros if you pay before June 27th; after that date and until classes start in September, the fee will be 35 Euros. Books can be paid now or in September (NO price increase!), and will be distributed in September before classes start. We will have a limited selection of used books available for the needy members of the parish – see Nancy privately for more information. New student registration will take place by appointment only in September – see our website for updated information in August. Tentative dates for office hours to make appointments are Sept. 6th, 8th, and 14th from 6 to 8 pm. You may contact Fr. Ron or me by phone from August 28th to schedule your appointment. Preparations are underway for First Holy Communion, which will be celebrated in our Parish on the 5th of June. May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 Dates to mark in your calendar are: First Confession May 7 th (4:30pm), FHC Rehearsal June 4th (5 pm) and FHC June 5th (photos 9,3010,30; Mass promptly at 10,45). Congratulations to: Paloma Cavanillas Benavente, Jeremiah and Peter Daskut, Cristina del Rio Karlsson, Presley Andrea Figueroa, Sofía García Gahan, Priska Lamiquiz Pratt-McKiernan, Kahtleen Louise Felicity Langan, Marina Lorenzo Rodriguez, Jessica Michelle Merino, Lavinia Helen Montgomery,Peter O’Byrne, Danny Pinkney, Gerardo Polanco Molina, Lily Lyons Pubilones, Isabel Riseño Slevin and Patrick Wilson . After all that, we end the CCD year with our ―graduation‖ ceremony on June 19th, followed by the teachers’ luncheon sponsored by Fr. Ron, Nancy and Louise. Have a happy and safe summer. September! ▪ See you in D id You Know? Fr. Ron has only ONE DAY off day a week. It is Monday. Please know that if you try and call Fr. Ron on Mondays, he will probably not be available. ▪ 9 A Stand- Out Tes timony of John Paul II VATICAN CITY. Many are recalling the words, actions and achievements of Pope John Paul II but the testimony of Benedict XVI is one that stands out among the rest, says a Vatican spokesman. Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi noted in his Vatican Television program "Octava Dies" that the current Pontiff "is the first Pope in modern times to proclaim his predecessor blessed, and who was, during more than two decades, one of his closest collaborators." He recalled the interview Benedict XVI gave to the public television station in Poland in October 2005, and broadcast on the recently established Pope John Paul II Day. At that time, Benedict XVI said that John Paul II "created a new sensitivity for moral values, for the importance of religion in the world." "Despite the differences and despite their nonrecognition of the Successor of Peter, all Christians have recognized that he is the spokesman of Christianity," he added. "He was the spokesman of the great values of humanity for non Christians and other religions too." The German Pontiff noted that John Paul II "knew how to infuse enthusiasm for Christ in young people," as well as for the "Church and for difficult values." "It was his personality and charisma that helped mobilize the youth of the world for the cause of God and for the love of Christ," he added. Moreover, Benedict XVI spoke of his mission as one of continuing the legacy of John Paul II: "My personal mission is not to issue many new documents, but to ensure that his documents are assimilated, because they are a rich treasure, they are the authentic interpretation of Vatican II. "We know that the Pope was a man of the Council, that he internalized the spirit and the word of the Council. Through these writings he helps us understand what the Council wanted and what it didn't. This helps us to be the Church of our times and of the future." Father Lombardi stated that Benedict XVI has followed through on the "inheritance" left to him by John Paul II: "God, Jesus Christ, the unity of Christians, interreligious dialogue for the good of the person and for all of humanity: these have been since the first day of his pontificate the priorities for Benedict XVI." The spokesman added that this "inheritance" has been not simply a list of "indications" to follow, but it has also been a "powerful spiritual inspiration, that arises from his testimony, his life, and his continual spiritual presence in the path of the People of God." ▪ For World Youth Day news visit: www.madridwyd2011.com 1m Pilg rims m ake for m ost crowd ed Beatification ever! A huge round of applause rose up from St. Peter’s Square, passing along the Via della Conciliazione and side streets to the Circus Maximus -- where thousands of people followed the celebration on video screens -- when Benedict XVI read the formula of beatification. "We grant that the venerable Servant of God John Paul II, Pope, henceforth be called Blessed and that his feast may be celebrated in the places and according to the regulations established by law, every year on Oct. 22,‖ he read in Latin. A smiling portrait of Karol Wojtyla, from a 1995 photograph, was uncovered at that moment on a large banner that hung from the main loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica. The pilgrims, many from Poland, were unable to hold back their tears. The French nun Marie Simon-Pierre, whose inexplicable healing from Parkinson’s disease made it possible to conclude the beatification process, along with Sister Tobiana, the Polish nun who assisted John Paul II’s physician, carried in procession a relic of Karol Wojtyla, a cruet of his blood. Security opened St. Peter’s Square at 2 a.m., a few hours before the scheduled time of 5:30, in anticipation of the overwhelming numbers. The ―powerful‖ of the world were also present: 62 delegations led by heads of state and government as well as royal families, besides the other countries officially represented. Representing Italy were President Giorgio Napolitano and Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi; representing Poland was President Bronislaw Komorowski; José Manuel Durão represented the European Commission. Representing Israel was Yossi Peled, a member of the Knesset, who was saved during the Holocaust by a Belgian Catholic family. Prior to the celebration Peled remarked that the event was ―especially significant.‖ John Paul II, he said, ―was born in a period in which one breathed an atmosphere of publicly approved anti-Semitism‖ but ―he rebelled and challenged those who wanted to enslave the human race.‖ Mexico was represented by President Felipe Calderón and Honduras by Porfirio Lobo. Five royal houses were present: those of Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg, Lichtenstein and the United Kingdom. The United States was represented by its ambassador to the Holy See, Miguel Díaz; Cuba by Caridad Diego Bello, head of the Office for Religious Questions of the Central Committee of the Party; and France by Prime Minister François Fillon. Some 2,300 journalists were present and 1,300 televisions stations. ▪ May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 10 Lord Patten attacks ' intolerant' s ecularists By Jonathan Wynne-Jones The new chairman of the BBC has waded into the growing row over secularism by warning that atheists are "intolerant" of religion. Lord Patten of Barnes, the former Cabinet minister and a practicing Catholic, said that he felt he was regarded as "peculiar" over his faith. His comments come amid a deepening battle over the freedom of religious belief, which last week saw a Christian electrician threatened with the sack for displaying a cross in his van. Lord Patten, a Conservative peer who will take control of the BBC Trust next month, is the highest-profile political figure to enter the debate over what is seen as a creeping attempt to remove Christianity from public life. But his comments angered secularists, who last night expressed concern that his faith could affect his ability to remain objective in making decisions. In a lecture delivered last week at Our Lady of Grace and St Edward in Chiswick, called 'Personal Faith and Public Service: Christian witness in the wider world', Lord Patten said he was dismayed by the attitude of secularists to the Pope's visit last year. Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, the atheist campaigners, called for Pope Benedict XVI to be arrested when he came to Britain last year over the Catholic Church's record on child abuse, and demonstrations were held in London to protest at state funding for the papal visit. "Some of the arguments put forward by secularists against the Pope's visit were lacking in intellectualism and were extraordinarily mean-spirited," said Lord Patten, who oversaw the Government's preparations for the papal trip. "I'm surprised the atheists didn't have better arguments [against the Pope's visit]." He claimed those who reject religious belief were hypocritical to portray religious people as being narrow-minded given the level of aggression they have displayed to Christians. "It is curious that atheists have proved to be so intolerant of those who have a faith," he said. "Their books would be a lot shorter if they couldn't refer to the Spanish Inquisition, but it is them who tend to have a level of Castillian intolerance about them." The former governor of Hong Kong and current chancellor of Oxford University, who described himself as a cradle Catholic, said his own experience was that people looked down on him intellectually for having religious belief. He said: "It makes people think I'm peculiar and lack intellectual fibres because I don't have any doubts about my faith, but I'd be terrified to have doubts." This admission echoes the claim made by Tony Blair in 2007 that people in political life who speak about their faith tend to be viewed by society as "nutters". A report earlier this year, endorsed by Dr Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, warned that May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 the Church faces a battle to prevent faith being seen as "a social problem" and says the next five years are set to be a period of "exceptional challenge". Fears have been growing that Christians are suffering from an increasing level of discrimination following a series of cases in which they have been punished for sharing their beliefs. Last week, Colin Atkinson, an electrician, was summoned to a disciplinary hearing by his employers for displaying a small palm cross on the dashboard of his company van - but eventually allowed to keep the symbol of his religion. However, Terry Sanderson, president of the National Secular Society, said he was alarmed by Lord Patten's criticism of secularists and questioned whether he could remain impartial in his role as chairman of the BBC Trust, which is designed to represent the concerns of licence-fee payers. "Lord Patten's comments don't bode well for his position as chairman of the BBC Trust," he said. "He is supposed to represent all viewers, not just Catholics or religious people and I am quite concerned that he will not be able to be objective when religion comes into conflict with free expression in programme-making." Mr Sanderson suggested the Conservative peer's faith could also influence his response to debates over the amount of time the BBC devotes to religion, which has been a recurring source of tension between the corporation and the Church of England. Over recent years, the BBC has upset Christians by broadcasting the controversial Jerry Springer the Opera, which depicted Jesus in a nappy, and commissioning a cartoon featuring an infantile Pope bouncing on a pogo stick. Fears have been raised amongst Church leaders that the BBC has become increasingly hostile to Christianity, but last year the corporation rejected calls from secularists for atheists to be included on Radio 4's Thought for the Day. ▪ 11 Putting on the apron By Thomas P. Sweetser, S.J. It was the first weekend of Masses for the new pastor, the Rev. Tony Zimmer. The priest had just arrived at St. Anthony on the Lake in Pewaukee, Wis., a suburb 20 miles from the heart of Milwaukee. I knew Father Zimmer from his previous parish, had always enjoyed his humor and style of presiding and attended one of the Masses that day. I suspected his first homily at St. Anthony parish would not disappoint. At the start of the homily, Father Zimmer thanked everyone for granting him the privilege of being the new pastor. He mentioned that the parishioners of his previous parish, St. Charles Borromeo, had given him a wonderful send-off. ―They gave me a present,‖ he added. ―Do you want to see it?‖ The congregation responded with a resounding yes. He stepped away from the ambo and picked up a bright red apron. ―Kind of like Christmas all over again,‖ Father Zimmer remarked as he put the red apron over his green vestments and walked around in front of the large gathering. His name was written at the top of the apron, and in the middle were the initials of St. Charles Borromeo parish. What was difficult for many in the congregation to see from afar was that the rest of the space was filled with parishioners’ names and parting messages. ―How many here have put on an apron recently?‖ asked Father Zimmer. Many, both women and men, raised their hands. ―Putting on an apron is serious business,‖ he continued. ―It means that you are about to do something important. An apron is like a uniform—a uniform denoting service, doing something special for others. That is why I value this gift so much. The people from my last parish were telling me that I had been their servant leader for the last 10 years. And that is what I want to be for you as well.‖ He continued: ―But I can’t do this alone. We all have to put on our aprons and roll up our sleeves to prepare the meals and liturgies and lessons and visits and what-all for others. I need you. We are all servant leaders here together—servants of our God and servants to others. This is the same God who, on the night before he died, put on a kind of apron—that’s how I read the towel around his waist—and got down on his knees to serve his friends and followers. Imagine that! That’s the kind of God we have. And we must do the same. ―There is a song that sums this up well. I’ll sing the first verse and you pick up on the second,‖ he instructed, referring the congregation to their missalettes. Then he began to sing Richard Gillard’s ―The Servant Song‖: ―Will you let me be your servant,/ Let me be as Christ to you;/ Pray that I may have the grace to/ Let you be my servant, too.‖ The congregation took his lead and sang all the verses. It was difficult for me to do much singing, however, because of the emotion of the moment. As I looked around, I could see others smiling, also moved by the experience. Such a simple gesture all this ―putting on the apron‖ was, but a profound expression of what it means to be a pastor. And the priest extended Christ’s genuine invitation to all present in that church. At the conclusion of the homily Father Zimmer took off the bright red apron, put it back on the stand and told the congregation, ―We have a baptism today.‖ He gestured toward the child who had been brought forward. ―Hopefully young Lucas will grow up with this same attitude of service.‖ As the baptismal rite continued, I thought of the white garment to be placed on the child: It could well be an apron. It might take a lifetime to grow into, but this is a beginning. And this child has a strong, willing faith community to show him how. ▪ Thomas P. Sweetser, S.J. is director of the Parish Evaluation Project, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Answers to exam: 1. False, it has been here for 6 years this May. 2. True: We don’t know the actual number but it is more than 25. 3. True: Fr. Raymond Sullivant, SJ (RIP) 4. False: It is one of the smaller ones. Why? Maybe the economy or the relatively little knowledge of English. 5. False: Actually, about 10 or so meet twice a month with Fr. Jim. 6. True: And we have hit our limit because we need more room. 7. True: From Ntra. Sra. De La Merced on Avd. de Alfonso XIII. 8. True: We a personal parish and that means our parish boundaries are made up by a common language as opposed to geographical boundaries. 9. False: OLM could really do with more volunteers so don’t feel shy and please see Fr. Ron or a PC member to discuss where/how your skills may best be applied. 10. False: It would be Nigeria 11. True: And it was ―the social event‖ in the high days of the ex-pat community. 12. True: So if you haven’t taken your turn in the last 12 months, make an effort to see Michele to put your name on the sign-up list. 13. True: Hope you went there to cheat and hope you continue to visit at least once a month. 14. False: Only around 20% of parishioners make that true commitment. There are tax benefits for you, so see Elke if you are interested. 15. True: On Thursdays at 13:00 with the ISM school in the small chapel. It is a joyful Mass opened to everyone (N.B. Only during school year). 16. True: Fr. Jim has one at the St. Louis University American campus. 17. True: Eggs and toast, etc. Give it a try. 18. False: Trick question, it is on the 2nd Sunday of the month. 19. True: If you get this wrong, you may be tone deaf? 20. True: So very true, thank you very much!! Score Card is on page 15 May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 12 Ros ar y G roup Young Ad ult G roup Marcel Adolphus | Paul Martinovich | 615 110 925 | [email protected] The Young Adult Group (YAG) is a group of committed, generous and respectful Catholic young adults who desire to impact each other, OLM, Madrid and El Mundo! The original intent of the YAG was to meet weekly for approximately one hour with people from their mid twenties to mid forties. However, with the coming summer break and hectic schedules, the YAG is no longer meeting on a regular basis. However, we will be holding some social events over the coming months where friendships can be shared. These could include picnics in the Retiro, barbcues at my place or other places people are willing to volunteer or suggest - I am open to ideas incuding meeting at a bar on an irregular basis after work. If you would like to participate and even suggest a meeting point, I am generally in the patio after mass. Did you know that the Rosary Group meets every Sunday at 10:30 AM in the small chapel? If you would like to honor God through Marian devotion, please join the group any Sunday. For more information, please speak to Marcel at 10:15 AM on Sunday by the small chapel. ▪ Bible Stud y The Bible Study Group meets with Fr. Jim after Mass on certain Sundays of the month. Please check the schedule on Pages 2 & 3. We now receive the ―Word Among Us‖ Bible Study Guides for those who would like one. ▪ Choir The YAG is for you and requires your support - my email, phone and door is always open to ideas. I hope to see you at our next meeting or activity. ▪ Elke Wilson | 91-277-0454 | [email protected] Can you sing a tune without your dog hiding under the sofa or the neighbours calling the police? Then join our international OLM choir. All are welcome: the more voices we have the more powerful will be our singing!!! Previous experience or ability to read music is NOT Charism atic Prayer G roup David Franklin | 627 046 056 If you want to experience the power and the gift of the Holy Spirit we encourage you to come to fellowship with us every Saturday at 6:00 PM in the parish rooms. ▪ necessary. We rehearse before Mass every Sunday in the parish building. Please arrive NO LATER THAN 10:15AM so we can start promptly. If you are interested, please contact our choir director or simply turn up! ▪ Our Lady of Mercy depends entirely on your donations! Please consider using a bank transfer for your regular contribution! Thank you for your support! Our Lady of Mercy Parish Please fill in below and take to your bank in order to support us. THE STANDING ORDER OPTION | Transferencia Bancaria A: _____________________________________________ (1) Estimados Señores: Con esta carta pido que se efectúe una transferencia mensualmente, el día ____ (2) del mes, empezando el mes de _______________ (3), 2009 por un importe de ___________ (4) Euros, con concepto de ________________ (5), desde mi cuenta con número ________________________________ (6), a favor de: 0506473807 PARROQUIA HABLA INGLESA, NTRA. SRA. DE LA MERCED Fibanc: IBAN ES43 Entidad 0186 Oficina 5001 D.C. 62 Número de cuenta Atentamente, ____________________________________ _________________ Firmado (7) Fecha (8) May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 (1) Name of your Bank / (2) Day of month to begin / (3) Month to begin / (4) Amount of monthly transfer / (5) Print your name / 13 Fellows hip on Sundays Michele Martorell | 91-759-5402 Fellowship after Mass is an integral part of life at Our Lady of Mercy. We get together after Mass every Sunday. We serve a great cup of coffee for 50 centimos and Starbucks for 1 Euro. In addition, we have hot/cold chocolate and a variety of teas. Our Madrid bakery delivers fresh pastries and donuts so we are well fed. Fellowship is also our time to celebrate. On March 6 we had our Mardi Gras Pot Luck. Check out the review in this bulletin! To celebrate the Easter baptisms, on May 1 we served complimentary Spanish champagne and Mimosas (orange juice and champagne). As spring and summer arrive, we look forward to our First Holy Communion party on June 12 and the CCD teacher’s luncheon on June 19. Any CCD classes who are looking for an activity, we still haven’t had a bake sale this year! Part of participating in the CCD program involves volunteering at least once to serve coffee or donuts during the fellowship. Thank you to all volunteers! Even if you don't have children in the CCD program, volunteering is a great way to get to meet our parishioners!" Fellowship at Our Lady of Mercy is an ongoing ministry since we are active every Sunday. Therefore we need volunteers on a weekly basis throughout the year. Please call Michele or Meredith if you'd like to volunteer. With our large group of volunteers your help will be needed about once a quarter. Any would-be volunteer who might be shy to come forward should not be concerned that this ministry is "difficult." Every Sunday at least one member of the Fellowship team is serving, David Franklin, Meredith Slevin, or Michele Martorell. Please approach us! There is nothing difficult in volunteering; only rewarding. Mard i G ras Sund ay It has become a tradition at OLM to celebrate Mardi Gras (originating from the French for ―Fat Tuesday‖) on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday. On March 6 we celebrated Mardi Gras with a Parish Pot Luck of breakfast and luncheon foods as well as sweets. Not only did we share a meal but we also provided a meal for those in our parish who might need it. After Mass, the children bought their pastries and went to their CCD classes. Thank you to Shawn Tremper and Julie Eckroth who stepped in to sell the pastries. Then with the help of some wonderful volunteers, 2 large tables of food served as our buffet. We successfully got 2 lines of people serving themselves simultaneously. We also had a single table for sweets/deserts. These events where nearly 100 people are served are not possible without the help of volunteers. A great big thank you to those who brought food. It was delicious and there were no leftovers. Thanks go to those who helped set up and in particular Magnus C. and Louise Aulbach. Thank you to Melissa de Miguel and another mother for coordinating the Boy Scouts who acted as ―go fors.‖ Neil de la Cruz and his friend Benjamin were amazing as they helped coordinate tables of food, movement of people and the general flow of the event. It is impossible to thank everyone who helped but here’s a try: Anabelle Pratt-McKiernan, Belen Antón, Meredith Slevin, Michele Weldon, Nancy Deutman, Maria Emma Duran, and Mercedes Fernandez. Our devoted clean-up crew was there after the event and they worked storing tables and leaving the patio clean! Their picture was a feature in last month’s bulletin. They are Charles, Calistus, Obinna, Emeka, Ifeyani, Richard, and Demian. ▪ PASTRIES VOLUNTEERS: There should be at least 2 of you serving/selling the donuts. Selling is hectic since the children have about 15 minutes to buy and eat their donuts before CCD classes begin. Remember to leave Mass before the congregation sings the exit hymn. Pick up the donuts in the kitchen area and bring them to the patio. The donuts sell for 1 euro each. Altar servers get a free donut! The collected money should be given to Michele, Meredith, David or Father Ron. COFFEE VOLUNTEER: The coffee volunteer will help with selling/serving coffee, tea and Nesquik. As with the donuts, leave Mass before the congregation sings the exit hymn early so that you can help bring up the drinks from the kitchen area to the patio. David Franklin coordinates the preparation of the coffee and setting up the tables and chairs on the patio. Magnus Chukwuemezueudeh oversees soft drink and juice sales. A special thank you to Inmaculada for serving while Magnus was in Nigeria. At the end of fellowship, the collected money should be given to Michele, Meredith, David or Father Ron. ▪ May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 14 Paris h Council Welcom e to OLM! Blanca de Castro, 91-570-8248 Spanish Liaison Newly Registered Parishioners Nancy Deutman, 91-731-9714 Director of Religious Education, Secretary Barbara Lahuerta, 91- 715-2550 Book Sale Coordinator David Franklin, 627-046-056 Charismatic Prayer Group Michele Martorell, 91-759-5402 Hospitality Coordinator Fr. Ron Ochylski, 91-718-5571 President Mike Schneider, 91-639-1564 Facilitator, Vocations, RCIA Alex Esclamado, 607 095 777 IT and Liturgy * Francis Muamba (recently registered) * Ana Mejía (helps with language program) * Ibenyi Jones (Who wishes to become Catholic!) * Denny Tjahjanto from Indonesia! * Kristen and Brandon Armitage and their children Kyle and Lindsey * Diana Downing and her daughter Isabel who will be joining us in July. Are you missing from this list? Please fill out a new parishioner registration form and get it ASAP to Fr. Ron. ▪ Financial Council Norman Kurtis Elke Wilson Mike Schneider Philip Kwaku Mante ANNOUNCEMENTS OLM EXTET 6 voices, piano & guitar. Specialised in modern & traditional church music, gospels and spirituals. Good quality musical accompaniment for weddings, baptisms, or other social events. For further information, contact Alex, Carlos or Delories or call Elke on 91-277-0454 or Daniel on 660-912-554. COMMUNITY SERVICE To do general volunteer work with Madrid’s official Spanish Volunteer organization: call 900-777- 888. GET RID OF THAT SPARE TYRE DO YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH ALCOHOL? We can help! AA Info line 91-309-1947 Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self supporting through our own contributions. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. To access our WEBSITE MEETING DIRECTORY please go to www.aaspain.org BEAUTY CORNER Interested in skin care products, makeup, accessories, perfumes, jewellery, clothes, or wrist watches? Then contact parishioner and choir member Stella Okekeze on 91-848-6440 or 659-237-153. These are reliable products from Mary Kay Cosmetics and Cristian Lay brands. For men and women that want to reshape their body, we have some products that will help you reduce the fat around your waist and also help you achieve your desired shape. For more information about Body Magic and Body Reshaper, see Queen Oge Mgbokwere on the patio after Mass. Tel: 660 704 871 Web: www.ardysslife.com/queeneth E-mail: [email protected] May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 NEED A NEW CAR? If you need a new car and are thinking about an Opel, please ask Fr. Ron or Louise Aulbach for the phone number of Juan Cruz Calleja. He is the manager of an Opel dealership and a very sincere Catholic. 15 Imm ig rant Fund Have you registered? David Franklin | 627 046 056 Who could ever imagine this economic crisis would last so long? No one wants to live off of charity but everyone needs to eat and pay for a room. Did you know that our neediest parishioners depend upon begging for people’s kindness as they help them move a cart of groceries or offer them a package of Kleenex? We do our best at OLM to help with food and bus passes but the expenses are very high. All OLM parishioners should be registered. This is an expectation for every Catholic parish throughout the world. If you have not yet registered, please pick up a New Parishioner Registration Form from the table in the vestibule or request it ―online‖ by sending an email to: [email protected] Please complete the form and return it to Fr. Ron personally. Also, if you know of a parishioner who is in need or you think may enjoy a call from Fr. Ron, please let him know. ▪ Free Inter net The Immigrant Fund very seldom receives parishioner donations (maybe one donation a month now) and we have had to beg outside organizations for assistance. The parishioner supported immigrant fund is now officially at zero Euros. Our Lady of Mercy provides Internet, email and computer facilities, free of charge, to parishioners who are in need. Ask David Franklin if you need to use it. However, one foundation responded to our DESPERATE plea and we have been able to help our neediest brothers and sisters for a little while longer. A big thank you to those parishioners who did what they could. In June, ISM will have a collection at their First Holy Communion Mass that will benefit this fund. Mas s G uid e The Account details continue to be: Parroquia Habla Inglesa – Ntra. Sra. De La Merced 2100 2434 48 0200241016 LaCaixa, Calle Drácena 15, 28016 Madrid Score Card for exam: 0-2 wrong: You are Fr. Ron or a Parish Council Member 3-5 wrong: You are a great parishioner, you seem to take an interest in your parish. 5-9 wrong: You might involved consider getting more 10-14 wrong: You are new, or you really need to become more involved 15 -19 wrong: You may not have your heart/soul in OLM. Tell us why, OK? 20 wrong: You don’t speak English well, do you? Privacy Please! If you ever see a photo on the OLM website that has you or your child in it and you want it removed, please inform Fr. Ron and it will be done immediately. We respect the privacy concerns of our parishioners. ▪ Note: Access is not available during Mass periods, CCD classes, Charismatic Prayer Group meetings or during other special parish activities. Maybe English is NOT your first language? Would you like a guide to help you follow the Mass in English? We are able to offer you a booklet allowing you to participate as best as possible in our Sunday Eucharist. Pick up a copy at the church entrance, or if it is not available please do not hesitate to ask Fr. Ron or his office assistant. Please know that we appreciate you joining us and we hope that you feel at home at Our Lady of Mercy. Spons or a H ym n Do you have a favourite hymn that you would like the choir to sing? If it is appropriate and something that we can learn, we now offer you the possibility of sponsoring that hymn. You can choose the singer as well! What’s the catch? We ask you to make a special donation to the church. If you are interested, see Elke, the choir director. C lot h ing Co l l e c tio n Please do NOT leave food or clothes donations near the CARITAS office inside the church as it belongs to the Spanish church. OLM donations should be taken to the CCD rooms and placed underneath the stairs as you walk in! Thank you! May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 16 W ho m t o s e e f o r wh at at O L M If you need a parishioner’s phone number, or email for private purposes, or have a question but are not sure who the right contact person might be, please contact a parish council member or the parish assistant (91-350-3449) before asking Fr. Ron. Please get in touch with… ▪ Fr. Ron Ochylski 91-350-3449 | 91-718-5571 | [email protected] » to register as a parishioner at OLM (the norm for our parish). Please fill out the form on the cabinet outside the chapel and give it personally to Fr. Ron. All data is confidential and not shared with third parts. » to be on the church group email list. Fr. Ron uses this list to inform the parish of news items, such as special events or other news that is of importance to the entire parish. All mails are kept confidential. » if you are leaving Madrid and would like to donate your furniture, kitchen items or appliances that are in perfect working order and good condition. We have parishioners who could use such items. » if you would like to have an announcement made at church. Please notify Fr. Ron one week BEFORE the Sunday you wish the announcement to be made. » if you want your child baptized. » if you are interested in becoming Catholic. » if you want to be married. Please see Fr. Ron at least 6 months before your proposed wedding date. » if there is a need for Anointing of the Sick (the elderly or before major surgery). » if you would like to celebrate the sacrament of Reconciliation.. » if you would like to help with parish social activities. » if you would like to help with charitable causes. » if you would like marriage preparation. » if you would like a Mass Intention / Mass Card. » if you want to place an ad in the bulletin. » if you would like to join the Youth Group. » if you have a question and are not sure who the right contact person might be. » if you have a prayer request. » if you need a baptismal certificate. » ▪ Elke Wilson 91-277-0454 | [email protected] » if you want to learn more about how to help your parish financially (bank transfers, standing orders, envelopes). » if you would like to sing in the choir or if you can play a musical instrument. » if you have a hymnal suggestion or request for the choir. ▪ Louise Aul bach 91-402-9465 » if you would like to become a reader or your child would like to be an altar server. May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 ▪ Michael Schneider 91-639-1564 » if you would like to become an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. » if someone needs the Eucharist brought to them at home (sick or shut in) ▪ Michele Martorell 91-759-5402 » if you want to sign up for your turn at helping with Sunday Fellowship (Coffee and Donuts). » if you want to help with the Sunday Program. ▪ Nancy Deutman 91-731-9714 | [email protected] » if you have any question about CCD. » if you would like to be a CCD teacher or substitute. ▪ Brian Douglas 669-440-156 | [email protected] » if you would like to be an usher, speak to one of the ushers at Mass or contact Brian. ▪ Barbara Lahuerta 91-715-2550 | [email protected] » if you are interested in the Boy Scouts. » if you have books for the Book Sale. ▪ Deanna Mason 91-351-2334 | [email protected] » if you would like to meet more people at OLM. » if you want to become a greeter, speak to one of our greeters at the door or contact Deanna. ▪ David Franklin 627-046-056 » if you want to join the Charismatic Prayer Group. ▪ Blanca de Castro 91-570-8248 » if you would like an issue brought up at one of the regular parish council meetings. » if you are interested in Bible Study. » for lost and found items. ▪ Paul Martinovich 615-110-925 | [email protected] » if you want to join the Young Adult Group (YAG). ▪ Marcel Adolphus » if you are interested in joining our Rosary Group. 17 Jokes & Humor K i d s a n d C l i ch é s ! I teach fourth grade in Ventura County, California. As a fun assignment, I gave the students the beginning of a list of famous sayings and asked them to provide original endings for each one. Here are some examples of what my students submitted. The grass is always greener when you leave the sprinkler on. A rolling stone plays the guitar. The grass is always greener when you remember to water it. A bird in the hand is a real mess. No news is no newspaper. It's better to light one candle than to waste electricity. It's always darkest just before I open my eyes. Never put off 'til tomorrow what you should have done yesterday. The squeaking wheel gets annoying. Laugh and the world laughs with you. Cry, and someone yells, "Shut up!" It's always darkest before 9:30 p.m. Early to bed and early to rise is first in the bathroom. There is nothing new under the bed. Don't count your chickens -- it takes too long. W h a t i f G o d h a d Vo i c e M a i l ? We have all learned to live with "voice mail" as a necessary part of modern life. But have you wondered what would happen if God decided to install voice mail? Imagine praying and hearing this: Thank you for calling My Father's House. Please select one of the following options: Press 1 for Requests Press 2 for Thanksgiving Press 3 for Complaints Press 4 for All Other Inquiries. I'm sorry, all of our angels are busy helping other sinners right now. However, your prayer is important to us and will be answered in the order it was received, so please stay on the line. If you would like to speak to: God, Press 1 Jesus, Press 2 The Holy Spirit, Press 3. If you would like to hear King David sing a psalm while you are holding, please press 4. To find out if a loved one has been assigned to Heaven, press 5, enter his or her social security number, and then press the pound key. (If you get a negative response, try area code 666.) For reservations at "My Father's House," please enter J-OH-N followed by 3-1-6. For answers to nagging questions about dinosaurs, the age of the earth, and where Noah's ark is, please wait until you arrive here. Our computers show that you have already prayed once today. Please hang up and try again tomorrow. This office is closed for the weekend to observe a religious holiday. Please pray again Monday after 9:30 AM. If you need emergency assistance when this office is closed, contact your local pastor. Thank God He doesn't have voice mail and that He listens when we pray! Wise Quotations Remember 'manure' was originally a French word. Heard on the Radio Bradley's Bromide: If computers get too powerful, organize them into a committee. That will do them in! If you don't have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over? - Old Photocopy Wisdom Lewis's Law of Travel: The first piece of luggage out of the chute doesn't belong to anyone, ever. Hanlon's Razor: Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity. We should be thankful for the good things we have and also for the bad things we don't have. May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 18 MM19, the restaurant opposite the church, at C/. Santa Maria Magdalena 19 is now; KOCINA2 and has the pleasure of offering OLM SPECIALS Please try our new sponsors!! Desayuno/Breakfast 10:00 – 13:00hrs Huevos revueltos ó fritos con patatas fritas y café/te €3,90 (Scrambled or fried eggs with fried potatoes and coffee/tea) Suplementos (additional ítems): Tomate, beicon, jamón, ó zumo (Tomato, bacon, ham, or juice) €1,00 Comida/Lunch 13:00 – 15:00hrs Pollo asado, patatas fritas, pimiento ó tomate €6,00 (Roast chicken, fried potatoes, roasted green peppers or tomatoes) Hamburgesa y patatas fritas con guarnición (Hamburger and fried potatoes with garnish) Refrescos (soda pop) Cerveza (beer) Copa de vino (glass of wine) Copa de Sangria (glass of Sangria) €6,00 €1,80 €1,20 €1,50 €3,00 Postre (Dessert): Tarta Manzana (apple tart), Tarta de chocolate (chocolate cake), Tiramisú (Tiramisu), ó Tarta de Queso (cheesecake) €3,00 - con helado (with ice cream) €4,00 May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 CH COMPANY LARGE AND SMALL COACHES. 19 10 % Discount for OLM parishioners! FREE ADVICE! May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 20 A y e ar in t he l i fe o f O u r L ad y o f M e r cy A joyful Children’s Mass U.S. Ambassador & the Embassy’s clothes donation Saint Nick and helper visit OLM Liam O’Dea remains in our prayers Pastoral Visit of Bishop Camino May/June 2011 | Volume 13, Issue 3 Ander wins the battle against Cancer Cub Scout Food drive last March