23rd sunday in ordinary time — september 6, 2009 · 2009-09-06 · the 6:30 p.m. liturgy will...

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time — September 6, 2009

*indicates part-time staff

John Lawlor Matt Lohmeier Dan O’Grady 922.1334

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

Parish Staff Rev. Joel Fortier – Pastor, [email protected] Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm. – Weekend Assistant Rev. Mr. William Worden, D. Min. – Deacon, x105 Rev. Mr. Chuck Lane – Deacon, x220, [email protected] Rev. Mr. Jim Breen – Deacon, 630.357.4853, [email protected] Rev. Mr. Larry Kearney – Deacon, x225, [email protected] Rev. Mr. Michael Barrett – Deacon , x220, [email protected] Liturgy Kate Cuddy – Director of Music and Liturgy, x112, [email protected] Lori Culberson – Liturgy Coordinator, x120, [email protected] Angie Tuttle – Liturgy Office Assistant, x110, [email protected] Jessi Allured* – Asst. Director of Music, x111, [email protected] Theresa Sheliga* – Sacristan Coordinator, x116 Faith Formation Chari Rosales – Director of Adult Education & RCIA x138, [email protected] Kevin Pranaitis – Director of High School Youth Ministry, x123, [email protected] Margie Trejo Lohmeier, Director of Middle School Faith Formation, x117, [email protected] Patti Dougherty – Director of Religious Education, x109, [email protected] Nancy Cirmo – Religious Education Assistant, x118, [email protected] Marge Coronado – Religious Education Assistant, x119, [email protected] Anne Schultz – Adult Faith Formation Assistant, x113, [email protected] Lynne Vehlewald* – Librarian, x125, [email protected] Outreach and Social Justice Michael Ryder – Director of Outreach & Social Justice, x121, [email protected] Anne Schultz – OSJ Partner, x113, [email protected] Sally Meno* – OSJ Financial, [email protected] Pastoral Care Jan Olah – Director of Pastoral Care, x124 Felicia Lawlor*, M.S., R.N. – Faith Community Nurse, x104, [email protected] Rose Grumbine*, R.N., – Faith Community Nurse, x104, [email protected] Administration Gerry Czerak – Business Manager, x106, [email protected] Diane McQueen – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x101, [email protected] Kathy Ferguson – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x100, [email protected] Marilyn DeMeo* – Database Coordinator (T/Th), x107, [email protected] Janet Simmons* – Financial Assistant (M/W/F), x107, [email protected] Pat Berkhout – Evening/Saturday Receptionist, x119, [email protected] Angie Tuttle – Bulletin Editor, Graphic Design, x110, [email protected] Susan Francesconi* – Communications Coordinator, x108, [email protected] Ted McKeown* – Facility Coordinator, x133, [email protected] Jorge Gonzalez* – Custodian Pastoral Leadership Community John Ball Christine Berta 579.4294 Julee Gard Steven Grumbine 375.0126 Commission Facilitators Worship Josh Goralski 357.7671 Parish Life Faith Formation Chris Baker 548.1733 Elaine Scutti 904.1272 Administration Dave Otto 717.6635 Service Carol Healy 961.0942

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

Weekend Saturday Vigil — 4:30 p.m. Sunday — 7:30, 9:00, 10:45 a.m., and 12:15 p.m.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every first Friday, 9 a.m. — Noon.

Sacrament of Reconciliation Reconciliation is available Saturday, 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., or after the 4:30 p.m. Mass in the Reconciliation Room of the Chapel. Fr. Joel is available during the week by appointment. Communal Penance services are held occasionally throughout the year. Sick and Home Bound Call the Church Office to receive prayer/Eucharist from a priest, deacon or Minister of Care. Baptism Baptisms are usually celebrated 2-3 Sundays each month at a 1:45 p.m. service. On selected dates, Baptisms are celebrated at weekend Masses. Parents are required to attend an awareness and renewal evening prior to the Baptism. Call the Church Office a few months in advance to make arrangements. Matrimony A couple planning on being married at St. Thomas should contact the church six months in advance. One year is preferred. Either the bride or groom, or their parents, must be a registered parishioner for at least three months prior to calling to set a date. Religious Education Call the 305-6318 to register. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) Any person wanting to learn more about the Catholic Faith, or to join our Catholic community should call the church at 355-8980. Counseling Service Call Samarian Interfaith 357-2456 or Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 355-8980 x 124. Sunday Nursery Nursery care is available for your child age one (walking) to four at the 9 & 10:45 a.m. Mass. For more information call the church office.

In the gospel today we hear Jesus say to the deaf man, “Ephphatha! Be opened!” The man who had never heard the sound of his own voice heard the word of God and begin to speak. We hear the word of God and what happens to us?

“Ephphatha”, be opened, was spoken to each of us at our Baptism. We hear the word of God today; the voice of God is present to us in word, sacrament, church teaching and Christian insight, and in the least of our brothers and sisters. At times the venues through which God speaks to us are unpleasant and overwhelming. Who can hear of the cry of the poor

and starving by the thousands, and not be over-whelmed. In such instances we are tempted to turn a deaf ear to the cries of the poor. The seemingly inces-sant demands of those who are disenfranchised and marginalized for their rights, dignity, and justice wear us down and we tend to tune them out. For those who follow Jesus, who made the needs of others his own mission, those cries, needs, and demands must become our own agenda. “The Lord hears the cry of the poor,” and those who profess to belong to the Lord must rouse themselves from deaf-ness and be attentive to the Lord’s many and varied voices. Ephphatha! Be opened! Hear the Word of the Lord, and be healed! We hear the Word of God today — Lord we really do want to hear. Heal our deafness and make us like you, able to proclaim your healing word to our world. In Christ’s love,

Dear Friends,

“Hear the Word of the Lord, and be healed!”

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

September 6, 2009

Did not God choose those who are poor in the world

to be rich in faith and heirs to the kingdom? — James 2:5

You are Invited… to join the

St. Thomas Prayer Network in praying for those in need. We are a quiet, confidential

and prayerful group, using a phone tree or e-mail list.

For more information, please call Sue Randolph

630.375.6755

September 6, 2009 —

Worship Commission

Presider’s Schedule Sept 12/13

4:30 - Fr. Pat Brennan 7:30 - Fr. Bob Colaresi 9:00 - Fr. Bob Colaresi 10:45 - Fr. Joel Fortier 6:30 pm - Fr. Joel Fortier

*Occasionally circumstances could cause a schedule change

The 6:30 p.m. liturgy will resume next week, Sept 13. The 12:15 Mass will conclude this weekend, Sept 6. This Mass will hap-pen occasionally as need arises.

Labor Day Mass There will be only one liturgy on Monday, September 7 at 8:30 a.m. to celebrate Labor Day. The offices are closed and the Church will be locked after this Mass.

Labor Day Prayer God our creator, we are the work of your hands. Guide us in our work, that we may do it not for self alone, but for the common good. Make us alert to injustice, ready to stand in solidarity, that there may be dignity for all in labor and in labor’s reward. Amen.

thw

Save the date! Bishop Peter Sartain will be with us for our 25th Anniversary Celebration at 4:30 Mass on September 26!

Eucharistic Ministers Eucharistic Minister training is scheduled for Saturday, September 12 at 9:00 a.m. or Monday, September 14 at 7:00 p.m. If you have not registered, but would like to be trained in this ministry, it is not too late. Contact Lori Culberson 630.355.8980x20

Before You Said Amen During the eucharistic prayer at Mass today, what were you thinking about? What was on your mind from the moment the presider invited every-one to: “Lift up your hearts!” until you sang the “Amen” before the Our Fa-ther? We Catholics say: This is the most holy time. But what does “holy” mean here, and how do you spend that holy time? Most of us would admit that we tend to wander off a bit at this time on Sunday. Yes, we sing the “Holy Holy” pretty well, perhaps, with a strong “Hosanna in the highest!” But sometimes we don’t focus back in until it’s time for the Our Father. Where did we go? We’re pretty good at getting on board for the song that begins the liturgy, and sometimes very good at giving full attention to at least one of the readings and maybe the homily. But if someone were to tap you on the shoulder during the Our Father and say: All right, where were you the last five minutes? How would you answer this question? This is not to ask: What did the priest just do? (We know that!) The crucial question is: After I said “yes” to the invitation to lift up my heart, after we all said “yes” to that, what happened to those hearts? Did they stay “lifted up”? Come at it this way. What happens in your life, happens with some regularity, that grabs and holds your whole attention—and grabs and hold you? That’s what is asked when we are told to lift up our hearts. We are asked not simply to be quite and attention (that can happen at a good movie or concert). For us as baptized people, we are asked to lift up and give to God our whole selves, engaged with all these other selves, around this altar. What’s it like to be totally involved in some deed even for a few minutes? Next time, can you enter into the eucharistic prayer in this way? Copyright © 2001 Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications, 1800 North Hermitage Avenue, Chicago IL 60622-1101; 1-800-933-1800; www.ltp.org. Text by Gabe Huck. Art by Luba Lukova. All rights reserved. Used with permission.

— September 6, 2009

Pray For Our Parish Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Into the dry and thirsty wilderness of our world, O strong and faithful God, you come with streams of living water to quench our thirst, to cleanse our wounds, to refresh our weary souls!

Open our eyes to your presence everywhere. Unstop our ears to hear the challenge of your word. Loose our tongues in songs of praise and fearless witness to your justice.

We ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, and 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… Kelly McCoy Scott Dickson for the deceased… Frank Wittry, husband of Helen Donald Sauter, father of Jean-Marie Seidl for new St. Thomas parishioners… Ken & Melissa DeGeeter The Humberto Tochimani Family The Anslem Family Julie Bayer Cathy Klaska The Thomas Law Family The Michael Willingham Family Patrick Flynn The Kozlowski Family The Werner Family Luke & Elisa Sena The Stewart Williams Family Adriano & Myrna de Lara

Mass Intentions Monday, September 7, 2009 8:30 †Regino Tuazon & Rose Tanedo, by Tess & Family Tuesday, September 8, 2009 8:30 Special Intention for Mary & Huey Costello, by Bridget Riley †John Ferguson, by Joe & Marie Ryan Wednesday, September 9, 2009 8:30 †Deceased Members of The Rejman Family, by Bruno & Loretta Thursday, September 10, 2009 8:30 †Nancy E. Churchill, by James Wilfinger Saturday, September 12, 2009 4:30 For the People of St. Thomas Sunday, September 13, 2009 7:30 †Deceased Members of 50+ Holding, by 50+ Holding †Robert & Mary Jane Nagel, by Judy Conley 9:00 †Juanita Nettleton, by The Stoffregen Family †Mary Jane Nagel, by Kathy Nagel 10:45 †Anthony Rizzi, by Family God Bless & Protect the Unborn

Readings for the Week Mon: 1 Cor 5:1-8; Lk 6:6-11 Tues: 1 Cor 6:1-11; Lk 6:12-19 Wed: 1 Cor 7:25-31; Lk 6:20-26 Thurs: Nm 21:4b-9; Phil 2:6-11; Jn 3:13-17 Fri: 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22b-27; Jn 19:25-27 or Lk 2:33-35 Sat: 1 Cor 10:14-22; Lk 6:43-49 Sun: Is 50:5-9a; Ps 116; Jas 2:14-18; Mk 8:27-35

Today’s Readings First Reading — Say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, fear not! Here is your God (Isaiah 35:4-7a). Psalm — Praise the Lord, my soul! (Psalm 146). Second Reading — Show no partiality as you adhere to the faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ (James 2:1-5). Gospel — Jesus makes the deaf hear and the mute speak (Mark 7:31-37).


Faith and Spiritual Formation Commission

C.A.R.E. CORNER

For most of us, this Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer. So it’s only fitting that today we wrap up our summer series on “signs” of God with us. We left off last week with Jesus’ disciples carrying on His mission, which they began on Pentecost Sunday. Perhaps it was easier for Jesus’ immediate disciples to understand God’s presence among them since they had walked, talked and lived with Jesus. But Jesus knew there would be many genera-tions of disciples to come who would need assur-ances that God was present to them, which of course includes us. And this is where the gifting of the Holy Spirit comes into play (remember Pentecost?). For it is the Holy Spirit that helps us come to knowledge and wisdom of the will of God, that helps us know right from wrong and gives us the courage to choose the right path, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. When we accept and use the gifts of the Holy Spirit, we will find ourselves exhibiting such godly qualities as patience, kindness, peace and joy. Every time you witness or engage in random acts of kind-ness, conflict resolution, diplomacy or acts of charity, you can be assured that God is truly pre-sent. So how about becoming a “sign” of God’s presence today.

Soul Searchers Meeting Scheduled September 12 Soul Searchers will meet once a month to explore and discover truths in Story of a Soul: Study edition by St. Therese of Lisieux, translated by John Clarke. Therese Martin was born in France in 1873, entered the Carmel of Lisieux at the age of 15 and died at 24. Known as the Little Flower, she was canonized in 1925 and made a Doctor of the Church in 1997. St. Therese said, “Everything is a grace because everything is God’s gift. Whatever be the character of life or its unexpected events—to the heart that loves, all is well.” We will discuss the Intro, Prologue and begin the first chapter, p. 13-45. The first fall meeting will be Saturday, September 12 from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. in the Rectory Basement. The text is available at the Carmelite Center in Darien and on the website: www.icspublications.org. Mary Maloney will have three books available for purchase. Please call if interested. Hand-outs are available in the pick-up drawer under “S”. Deacon Will and Mary Maloney are group leaders. Come whenever your schedule allows and enjoy a thought provoking experience. All are welcome to attend this monthly discussion group.

Friday Bible Study The Bible Study formerly held on Wednesday mornings has shifted to Fridays. Weekly sessions on “Prayer: An Adventure with God” begin September 11 from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. Join a spirited group in encountering biblical prayer models from Abraham to Mary! No prior registration or bible study experience needed. Child care is available. Flyers are available in the Gathering Area. Save the Date! Save the date for a date with your spouse or part-ner! The Marriage Enrichment Ministry will host a showing of the movie “Fireproof” in the Lighthouse on Friday, Oct. 9 at 6:30pm. Gotta Dance! Dance lessons are back! This popular 4-session class returns on the 4 Mondays of October, beginning Oct. 5. Classes will be in the Auditorium (Gym) from 7:30-9pm. For only $20 per class per couple, you can learn or brush up on your moves. Feeling classic? Try a foxtrot or a waltz. Feeling frisky? There’ll be a full complement of Latin dances, from tango to salsa and many more! To reserve a place for you and your partner, contact Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith Formation Office.


Art: A Learning Experience Join noted local artist Robert Sunyog for “Fun with Pencils & Pens.” Choose your medium – graphite pencil, color pencil, watercolor pencil, or pen & ink – as you are guided in creating a unique still life, landscape, seascape or street scene. Classes will be held on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon in the St. Thomas Senior Center from September 12 to October 17. Cost for the 6 sessions is $70. Registration will be open to the first 12 participants, so reserve your place now! To register and obtain a supply list, contact Chari Rosales at 630.355.8980 x138 or at [email protected].

Scripture Study for Curious Adults “Who is God?” “Who am I?” “Where did we come from?” “Where are we going?” These are the basic questions of humankind. To join the conversation, come to the Scripture Study co-sponsored by St. Thomas and SS. Peter & Paul as we explore the Book of Genesis, “In the beginning...” Sessions on Thursdays run from September 10 to June 3. Choose the one convenient for you – either 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. OR 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Ministry Center, 36 N. Ellsworth, Naperville 60540. For more information, or to register, contact Chari Rosales, the facilitator, in the Adult Faith Formation Office at 630.355.8980 x138 or [email protected].

Coming Soon...School of Prayer! “Lord, teach us to pray.” Every follower of Je-sus has felt the need to voice that desire, and the Holy Spirit has responded in many ways. Beginning September 14, and following on the second Monday of the month, come to the “School of Prayer” from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. to “try on” varied experiences of prayer, ancient and con-temporary, to expand or deepen your personal prayer life. Monday, September 14, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, is an opportunity to participate in the Liturgy of the Hours — an ancient practice using psalms and hymns in praise. Come to the Chapel to pray with the universal Church on this sacred night. Stop by the poster in the Gathering Area to pick up a flyer. Commissions The first leadership night will be Wednesday evening, September 9 starting with prayer in the chapel at 7:00 p.m. Members of St. Thomas Com-missions (Worship, Faith Formation and Spiritual Development and Administration) are encouraged to attend. Interested parishioners are invited or may contact Patti Dougherty, 630.355-8980 ext. 109.

St. Thomas the Apostle 25th Anniversary Picnic and Mass

Saturday, September 26 Noon – 4:00 Picnic

4:30 Mass indoors with Bishop Sartain. A simple reception to follow.

Bring your own chairs, blankets, bean bag games, etc. There will be music, games, prizes, and a raffle! Food sold from Noon to 3:00 or pack your own picnic meal. Cookie Bake-Off: Bring a batch of cookies to share. A winner will be chosen for best tasting cookie. Meet Sparky, mascot of Chicago Fire and repre-sentatives of Chicago Fire and Chicago Red Stars. And don’t forget the first ever St. Thomas night at Toyota Park on October 22. Help is needed too. Hourly shifts for set up and take down, grilling, serving food, and organizing games. Contact Patti Dougherty 630.355.8980x109 or [email protected] Pick up a flyer from he poster in the Gathering Area. Color it and bring to the picnic for a special treat!


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

Sept 6 Question of the Week...

What does this mean? “Actions speak louder than words.”

Religious Education Classroom Placements and Schedule (Pre-K – 8) Classroom placements are being finalized for stu-dents in grades Pre- K through 8. Parent Handbooks, which includes all information needed about the Reli-gious Education Program including classroom place-ments and schedules, have been sent through the mail. If you have not received your information or would still like to sign up your child for Religious Education, please contact the Faith Formation Office at 630.305.6318. Please note classes begin on:

Tues 1 – 5 grades on September 8 at Brookdale School Sat Pre- K – 5 grades on September 12 at All Saints Catholic Academy Mon 6 - 8 grades on September 21 (not the 14 ) at All Saints Catholic Academy

The R.E. schedule for Pre-K through 8th grade

is now available online. See our website

www.stapostle.org

RAINBOWS is a group-sharing pro-gram for children dealing with the loss of a parent due to divorce, separation, or death. Since it is necessary for emo-tional healing to take place after a sig-nificant loss, this support group provides the grieving with an opportunity to share their feelings in an accepting and confidential environment led by trained, caring, and compassionate adults. Each Rainbow session focuses on a specific topic related to the grieving process. Readings, journaling, as well as arts and crafts help the children to share their experiences in a less “intimidating” for-mat. Children from Kindergarten through 8th grade will be enrolled. All sessions are held at St. Thomas the Apostle Church from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. on Saturday mornings beginning September 19. If you have children or know of chil-dren who would benefit from this won-derful program, or would like to be a fa-cilitator, please call: Patti Dougherty, 355-8980 ext 109 to register now.

Chicago Fire Game October 22 Pick up an Order Form for the October Chicago Fire game! The Fire will be playing the Chivas USA at Toyota Park at 7 p.m. See the Faith Formation Credenza in the Gathering Area for the forms. Tickets are only $25 for Corner Kick Seats, payable to St. Thomas and a portion of every ticket will come back to our church. Questions can be directed to pa-rishioner, Sean Moriarty 630.270.9922.


Quest Kicks Off September 13 Quest, along with the 6:30 p.m. mass, kicks off in just a couple weeks on September 13. All Quest teens and parents are expected to attend the event which begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. and will last until approximately 8:30 to 8:45 p.m. All, of course, are welcome to show their support and wor-ship with our youth. Registration forms and sched-ules are available still on our website. Questions? Call Kevin Pranaitis at 630.355.8980x123 or the Religious Education Office at x118. The Weeks Ahead for High School Youth Ministry: Wed, Sept 9, Sports & Bible Study from 7-9 pm in the Cabin, 8th-12th grade Thurs, Sept 10, Teens With Character Pillar Meeting 7-8:30 pm in Gym, 6th-12th grade Sun, Sept 13, LIFE Team Meeting 4:30-6:30 pm in Cabin – High School Quest Kick-Off & Mass 6:30-9 pm, parents & teens

Help Wanted 1.5 Hrs/Week

Media Team

Our Media Team needs some new teens or adults! Commitment is 1-2 Sundays a month 5:30-7:30pm. Run the projection, live video

feed, sound board, etc for the 6:30pm mass.

Call Kevin Right Now! 630.355.8980 x123 or [email protected]

Teens With Character Fall Kick-Off Join us for the first TEENS WITH CHARACTER meeting where all youth from grades 6-12 are wel-come to join us for fun, diving into our faith, and seeing old and new friends. Teens will meet in the St. Thomas gym on September 10, Thursday from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Know that you are invited even if you have never attended before; we’d love to have you! For more info, contact Margie Trejo Lohmeier at 630.355.8980x117.

NEWS from… All Saints Catholic Academy

Fabulous Fall Fun Fair Sept. 20, 1-4 p.m. Come join the All Saints family and friends at the first Fall Fun Fair on September 20 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. There will be carnival games, food, cake walk, bake sale, dunk tank, and much more. It is sure to be a fun afternoon for all ages. Tickets sold at the door so stop by. All are welcome.

ST THOMAS PRAISE Prays… An Intergenerational Faith Night

with JOHN ANGOTTI Wed, Sept 23


Service Commission Outreach & Social Justice

Hike for Hesed Saturday, September 12 Hike for Hesed will take place on Saturday, September 12 at 9:00 a.m. at 659 South River Street in Aurora. The three-mile, family and dog-friendly hike will benefit the ministries of Hesed House that help the poor and homeless of the Fox Valley. Entertainment will be provided at the end of the hike by a DJ along with activities and a picnic lunch at Hesed House. Hikers may register online and create a sponsorship page so friends and family can easily support the cause by visit-ing: www.events.org/hikeforhesed.

“This event symbolizes what the organization is all about; bringing members of the community together— universities, schools, churches, businesses, families, troops, civic organizations, clubs, sports teams and more— to move the organization one step closer to ending homelessness in the Fox Valley area,” notes Ryan Dowd, Executive Director of Hesed House. “Hike for Hesed gives anyone who wants to make a difference in the lives of the poor and homeless the opportunity to do just that.”

St. Nicholas Latin Festival Those of you that attended the Kermes Fair at St. Nicholas know to expect authentic (and very good) Mexican food, music, and good fun at the upcoming Latin Festival. It will happen on Sunday, September 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The proceeds benefit the parish of St. Nicholas as they work to support their com-munity. (St. Nicholas, 308 High Street – Aurora) Human Rights Day Retreat • "Envisioning Shalom" will provide discussion and a guided meditation that will focus on peace in our hearts. • "The Role of Women" in political and civic life will be discussed emphasizing how we can do our part. Our country's budget priorities and how we compare to other countries will become clear in "Unraveling Global Military Spending". • View a DVD: Mahammad Yunus started Micro-Credit in Bangladesh. Friday, September 18, 2009, 9: 15AM – 2PM Grace United Methodist Church, 300 E Gartner, Cost: $10 - includes lunch Mail checks - Payable to CWU to Mary O"Keefe 6 S. Wright St. Naperville, IL, 60540 by Sept. 14

Offering of Letters Bears Fruit This year’s Offering of Letters (last June) asked our US Representatives to co-sponsor U.S. Bill 2139. The bill does not ask for additional funding. It calls for the reform of the current 1961 law that governs our country’s foreign assistance … to more effec-tively use the money that is already allocated. After our letter writing, John St. Laurent delivered the 265 letters that were addressed to Representative Judy Biggert. At that time, she agreed to consider sponsoring the bill. Recently, John was among a contingent that delivered 70 letters to Representative Biggert from Wesley United Methodist Church. At that meeting, she told the group that she will sign on as a co-sponsor. She mentioned that the letters she receives from her constituents do have an impact on her actions. And that the Offering of Letters she re-ceived from St. Thomas and Wesley United and other churches did influence her decision to co-sponsor U.S. Bill 2139. City Council to Vote on Video Gambling What is your view on Video Gambling? On September 15, the Naperville City Council will be considering whether or not to allow video gambling in Naperville. For more information on the issue, go to: http://www.naperville.il.us/videogaming.aspx. Do you have an opinion? Would you like to ex-press that opinion? If so, send e-mail to [email protected], or call (630) 420-6043. You are also free to attend the Council meeting on September 15. It begins at 7:00 PM and ends whenever! Mass for the Unborn The 10:45 Mass next Sunday will be a Mass for the Unborn.

For young mothers everywhere, and especially those who are tempted to despair, that through their children they might know hope and joy; We pray to the Lord.


Pastoral Care Gluten-Free Host Procedure For those who need an alternative to wheat hosts, we offer a rice-based host for Eucharist. This is the procedure for ensuring you health and safety. � You will need your own pyx (a special con-

tainer for Eucharist). These are available from the Pastoral Care Office. You may wish to mark it so yours is identifiable to you as there may be other people using this proce-dure.

� Before mass, bring your pyx to the sacristy. The hosts are in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator in the sacristy. Place one of the wafers in your pyx. Place the pyx on the blue plate on the gifts table in the center of the church. It will be brought forward with the gifts and consecrated.

� At Communion, please go to the station near the baptismal font by the Mary Statue (Station 7). At 6:30pm mass, go to Station 2, in front of the ambo, the big lectern where the readings are proclaimed. The Eucharistic Minister will have the plate with the pyx. To ensure no wheat cross-contamination, you will open the pyx and consume the host using your own hands. Take your pyx home with you until next time.

� If you are ill or in the hospital, and would like to receive Eucharist, please call the Parish Nurse Office. We will ensure that the Minis-ter of Care has gluten-free hosts available.

If you have any questions regarding this pro-cedure or need a pyx, please contact Rose or Felicia in the Parish Nurse Office.

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!


Stewardship Commission

Stewardship… A Way of Life Last Weekend’s stewardship of financial gifts...

Weekly Sunday Offertory August 30, 2009 (week 9) Automatic Direct Debit Mailed in & stock donations Total for week *Based on Collection Counters Reports

Fiscal Year (7/1 to 6/30) to date: Weekly Average 7/1/09 to date: Offertory Goal Year to Date over/short of goal to date: Goal for Fiscal Year 7/1 to 6/30 Remaining for Fiscal Year goal Diocesan Appeal Updated Results Parish Appeal Goal: Pledges Received: % of Goal pledged to date: Remaining amount to goal Number of Donors:

$24,226

n/a $2,226

$26,452

$302,476 $33,608

$318,600 ($16,124)

$1,840,800 $1,538,324

$146,500 $111,327

76% $35,173

580

All Saints Catholic Academy Prepares Donor Recognition Wall All Saints Catholic Academy is in the process of preparing a donor wall to honor and recognize those parishioners who made an initial gift to establish the school. By mid-July, letters will be mailed to the do-nors on record to confirm listing of name and finan-cial category. Please read the letter thoroughly and respond if changes need to be made. If you believe you should be listed as part of the initial campaign and do not receive a letter, please contact Peggy Kobe, [email protected] . Once again, thank you to all parishioners who have supported All Saints Catholic Academy.

The simplest form of Planned Giving: A Bequest A will is an important document that lets you determine the distribution of your estate. It also offers a variety of creative ways for you to leave a Legacy of Faith, forever helping your parish, school or diocese. In preparing your will, you should first provide for your family’s needs. Then you may choose to bequeath to your parish, school or diocese a certain dollar amount, a percentage of your estate, or whatever is left after your loved ones have been taken care of. You may also wish to name one or more charitable recipients in case your heirs do not survive you. If you already have a will, your attorney may be able to add a simple amendment (Codicil) to provide a gift to an endowment, using language similar to this:

General Bequest: I hereby will, give and bequeath the sum of $______ to the Diocese of Joliet for (name your parish, school or diocesan endowment fund).

Residue Bequest: I devise and bequeath ______% of the residue of my estate to the Diocese of Joliet for (your parish, school or diocesan endowment fund). As the legal entity behind parishes like St. Thomas the Apostle, the diocese will handle the process-ing and distribution of your bequest funds accordingly. The Diocese does not provide advice on tax or legal matters. You should obtain the service of an attorney, accountant or other professional tax and estate advisor. For additional information, contact the Development Office at 815-838-8515.


Calling All Artists! The Celebration of the Arts ministry of St. Tho-mas the Apostle invites artists to participate in the Twelfth Annual Fine Arts and Craft Fair. The event will take place on Saturday and Sun-day, November 7 and 8 in the Ministry Center. En-try forms are in the rack outside of the church office. The deadline for registration is September 25, how-ever space is allocated on a “first come, first serve” basis, so don’t wait until the last minute to register. Call Don Castro at 630.717.9354 or Chari Rosales at 630.355.8980 x138 for more information.

Tues, Sept. 15, 7:00 p.m. Meeting in the Gathering Area. More information to follow .

Helping Scouts Learn About Their Faith Are you willing to help Girl and Boy Scouts in your parish earn their Religious Medals/Emblems? If so, the Joliet Diocese Catholic Committee of Scouting invites you to attend a training session on Saturday, October 17, from 8:00 a.m. to Noon at St. Charles Borromeo Pastoral Center in Romeoville. If you have copies of any of the Scout workbooks or Adult guides please bring them with you. For more information or to make a reservation to attend please call by Friday, October.9 Deacon Rod Accardi, Chaplain, at 630.933.6634

The Nursery is Open as of September 6! The Sunday nursery is for those walking to age 4. Parents have a choice of either $3 per Sunday or be-coming a Co-op member. Co-op members can use the nursery for free while volunteering their time in the nursery 1 Sunday every 3 months. At the moment the 9 a.m. mass has more children attending so two parent volunteers are in the room. The 10:45 a.m. mass has one parent volunteer. We are definitely in need of more parents volunteer-ing! Also parent volunteers will need to attend Protect-ing God’s Children. This is a 3-hour video/discussion on the issues of children’s safety. For more information or to sign up, stop by the nursery for a form or call or email Margie Trejo Loh-meier at [email protected] or 355-8980 X117

Join us for the Fall BHA Children's Clothing & Toy Sale

Toys, books, clothes, coats, shoes, baby items,

costumes, gear, maternity, etc...

St. Thomas the Apostle Gym

Saturday, September 19 8am - noon

www.aboutbrookdale.org


Jobs Ministry Weekly Networking Meeting Friday mornings at 9:30 a.m.

(after the 8:30 a.m. Liturgy) Lighthouse

Administration Commission

St Thomas the Apostle Church 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, 630.355.8980 Friday meeting formats include a short introduction of all the attendees, then a speaker, followed by a structured net-working sessions. Bring your elevator speech, business cards, handbills and resumes. Contact Jim Breen at [email protected]

Fri, Sept 11, 9:30 am: Michael Schumacher, is Director of Professional Services for Lee Hecht Harrison’s office in Lisle, IL. Mike’s presentation titled “Interviewing for Suc-cess”, will teach the Job Seeker how to develop a success-ful interview strategy; how to prepare yourself to answer questions; and, how to effectively handle the salary ques-tion. Saturday September 12, 2009 at 9:00 am: Resume Re-view at St Thomas. Bring your resume for a ‘one-on-one’ review session by HR professionals.

The September St. Thomas Jobs Ministry Meeting will be Wednesday evening September 23, at 7:00 pm in the Gym. The speaker will be Joy Maguire Dooley. Joy is currently Director of Adult Services for the Lisle Township. Joy has helped over 1,000 people secure meaning-ful employment over the last fifteen years. Joy has won numerous community organizations and em-ployee awards in a variety of specialties. Joy created and co hosts a weekly radio show “Job Talk” which airs every Thursday morning. “Job Talk” can be heard on WJJG 1530 AM radio. Joy’s presentation is titled “When Is It Time To Change”. Joy will show you how to use our existing talents and experience to “land” that next job even though the new position may be outside the Job Seek-ers normal area of expertise. Joy will also explore other topics to help the Job Seekers “land” that next job. Please plan to attend this very informative meeting on Wednesday evening September 23, at 7:00 pm in the Gym at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Naperville, IL For additional information please contact Jim Breen at [email protected].

THE WEEK AHEAD… Monday, Sept. 7 8:30 am Mass Labor Day Offices Closed Tuesday, Sept. 8 9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area 4:30—5:30 p.m. R. E. Classes at Brookdale School 4:30—5:45 p.m. R. E. Open House at Brookdale School 7:00—9:00 p.m. Adult Basketball, Gym 7:00—9:00 p.m. Charismatic Prayer Group, Resource Center 7:00—9:30 p.m. Voices of Faith, Church . Wednesday, Sept. 9 9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area 4:15—5:15 p.m. Joyful Jammers, Church 6:00—10:00 p.m. ALPHA, Lighthouse 7:00—8:30 p.m. Eucharistic Minister Training, Church 7:00—9:30 p.m. Leadership Night, Ministry Center 7:30—9:00 p.m. Pro-Life, Resource Center Thursday, Sept. 10 9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area 6:00—9:00 p.m. Teens with Character Pillar Meeting, Gym 6:00—7:30 p.m. Journey Praise, Church Friday, Sept. 11 9:00am-12:00 p.m. Gathering Place Café, Gathering Area 9:00—11:30 a.m. Bible Study, Senior Center 9:30am-12:00 p.m. Jobs Ministry, Gym Saturday, Sept. 12 8:00am-12:00 p.m. Resume Review, Ministry Center 8:30 am—11:45 R. E. Classes at All Saints Academy 8:30—9:45am & 10:30—11:45 a.m. R. E. Open House at All Saints Academy 9:00—10:30 a.m. Men’s Saturday Sharing, Deacon’s Office 9:00am-12:00 p.m. Art Class, Senior Center 9:00—10:30 a.m. Eucharistic Minister Training, Church 9:15—10:30 a.m. Soul Searchers, Rectory Basement Sunday, Sept. 13 7:30am—12:30 p.m. Training for Donut & Welcome Sunday, Ministry Center 10:00—11:30 a.m. Puppet Practice, Resource Center

23rd sunday in ordinary time — september 6, 2009 · 2009-09-06 · the 6:30 p.m. liturgy will...

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