“in the desert i make a way, in the wasteland,...
TRANSCRIPT
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“In the desert I make a way, in the wasteland, rivers.”
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Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Thomas More Parish Family welcomes and invites every person to join us on our journey in faith and celebration. With the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through Sacred Scripture and Tradition, we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all, especially in loving service to those in need.
As part of the Universal Church, we affirm the dignity of every person. All this we do to give glory and honor to God.
Pastoral Staff Pastor ............................. Reverend Michael J. Yadron, KHS; Ext. 312 [email protected] Associate Pastor .......................... Reverend Richard C. Holy; Ext. 314 [email protected] Deacons ......................................................... Mr. David Kapala, KHS ..................................................................... Mr. Joseph Stodola, KHS ............................................................................ Dr. Napoleon Tabion ................................................................... Mr. Daniel Zurawski, KHS Stewardship Director ..................................... Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Pastoral Care Coordinator ............. Deacon Napoleon Tabion; Ext. 315 Director of Religious Formation ......... Mrs. Sandra Morgan; Ext. 332
Parish Office Staff Office Hours:
Monday-Friday ~ 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday ~ 8:00 am-4:00 pm Web Site .......................................................... www.stm-church.com Email address .................................. [email protected] Email address for bulletin ...................... [email protected] Office Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax .................... 836-9185 Bulletin Editor ............................................ Mrs. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Daytime Receptionist ................................ Mrs. Susan Strain; Ext. 310 Evening Receptionist ............................. Ms. Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310
Pastoral Ministries Circle of Prayer ........................................ Mary Jo Humpfer 836-5002 Environment & Art ............................................. Jean Bados 836-8610 Eucharistic Ministers ................................... Carole Mackey 923-8816 Hospitality Ministry ....................................... Ann D’Orazio 838-9343 Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459 Music Ministry ................... Miss Angie Lorandos 836-8610, Ext. 338 Nursery .................................................. Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079 St. Vincent de Paul .......................... Mrs. Bernadine Barrett 836-8610 Vocations Committee .............................. Mrs. Mary Kochis 322-7262
2011-2012 Pastoral Council Members Tom Alexander, Chairperson .......................................... Daniel Buksa Timothy Etter .................................................................. Don Kopenec Jackie Kovach .................................................................. John Kovach Andrea Mazerik ............................................................. Phil McIntosh Krystal Quagliara ........................................................ Susan Rousseau Linda Stefanich ......................................................... Joann Wleklinski
St. Thomas More School Pre-School through 8th Grade
Office Hours: Monday– Friday ~ 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Web Site ........................................................... www.stm-school.com School Phone ......... 836-9151 School Fax .......................... 836-0982 Principal ......................................... Mr. Chet Nordyke, KHS; Ext. 328 Assistant Principal…………………….…...Mrs. Tina Boyle; Ext. 328 School Administrative Assistant….Mrs. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328 School Reception & Office Associate…..Mrs. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329 Home & School Association…….Mrs. Mary Beth Ginalski; 864-0941 Parish & School Offices Associate……Mrs. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311 Parish & School Offices Associate ......... Mrs. Pam Wadycki; Ext. 339
Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN 46321
Phone ..................................................................................... 836-2660 Fax ......................................................................................... 836-2655
St. Thomas More Religious Education Kindergarten through 8th Grade
Office Hours:M-F 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Religious Education Phone ............................................................ 836-8610 Director ........................................................ Mrs. Sandra Morgan; Ext. 332 Administrative Assistant ..................................... Carolyn McGill; Ext. 336 Grades K through 8 ~ Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 ~ 6:00 p.m.
Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education ................................................... Mrs. Barbara Topete Parish Life ................................................................ Mrs. Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice .......................................................Ms. Mary Silvasi Spirituality & Worship .............................................. Mrs. Kaaren Mashura Stewardship ................................................................... Mrs. Noreen Bickel
Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society ....................................... Cindy Keilman 923-9862 Elizabeth Ministry ................................................ Pam Domasica 838-7940 Holy Name Society .................................................... Joe Adams 865-3566 Senior Citizens ............................................................ Joan Klein 923-5993 Respect Life ............................................................ Alice Wohler 836-5337 Knights of Columbus ............................... Robert Gozdecki (219) 427-6919 Blue Army ................................................... Rose Marie Malburg 836-8779 Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Planned Giving ..................................................................... Ken Krupinski Building Maintenance .................................................... Bob Ray 924-6472 Boy Scouts.............................................................. Roger Jachna 322-0769 Cub Scouts............................................................... Steve Hrinda 923-6438 Girl Scouts ................................................................. Julie Buksa 922-1182 Catering/Hall Rental ......................................... Kathleen Pagorek 972-0539 Moms’ Group ......................................................... Leticia Kotso 924-5732 Ushers Club .......................................................... Jim Marmalejo 836-1463 Gabriel Project ..................................................... Kathy Trotman 836-4329 The Travelers Club…………………………………..Lois Quinn 836-7902
St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321
Sacramental Information Confessions Saturdays ............................................................ 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. First Friday .............................. 1/2 hour before the 6:30 a.m. Mass Baptisms .............................. First and Third Sundays at 1:00 p.m.
Parents must be registered parishioners and regularly at-tending at least six months before the Baptism. At least one of the godparents must be a practicing Catholic.
Pre Baptism Class ..................................... 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Parents must call the Parish Office to schedule class and/or Baptism. Marriage .............. Must be a registered, practicing member of the parish at least six months before beginning the six month preparation program for marriage.
Communion calls and visits to Hospitals and Homebound: Call the Parish Office for Sacraments at hospital or at home.
New Parishioner Registration To make it as convenient as possible for you, new parishioners may
register at any time in the Parish Office.
Please remember St. Thomas More in your Will and Estate Planning
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Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time February 19, 2012
Saturday, February 25 5:30 p.m. Fr. Rick Holy
Sunday, February 26 6:30 a.m. Fr. Rick Holy 8:00 a.m. Fr. Rick Holy 10:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 12:00 Noon Fr. Mike Yadron
SUNDAY, February 19 — Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am David G. Wysocki (Ann.) by Family 10:00 am Florence Revenew by Husband Russell 12:00 pm Bertha Pepa Struble (Ann.) by Daughter Shirley
MONDAY, February 20 6:30 am John Narvid (Ann.) by Family 8:30 am Barbara Jarvis by Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Anthony
TUESDAY, February 21 — St. Peter Damian 6:30 am Leroy Gauger by Robert & Virginia Gauger 8:30 am Donald Robling (Ann.) by Helen & James Austgen 10:00 am Francis Rich (Ann.) by Peter & Helen Rich (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 3)
WEDNESDAY, February 22 — Ash Wednesday 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 9:00 am Marie Benko by Dan Landers 5:00 pm Don Hess by Diana & Tony Giordano 7:00 pm Annie Ristway by Beird Family
THURSDAY, February 23 — St. Polycarp 6:30 am Marcia Reffkin by Robert & Marchell Barkey 9:00 am Enrique Santos (Ann.) by Napoleon & Lynn Santos
FRIDAY, February 24 6:30 am Harry Kender by Jim & Arlene Kender 8:30 am Robert Gregor by Elaine York SATURDAY, February 25 8:30 am Gloria Kudlo by Dan & Marie Karulski 5:30 pm Olga Losinski by Donovan Family
SUNDAY, February 26 — First Sunday of Lent 6:30 am John Mateychuk by Loretta Krawczyk 8:00 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 10:00 am Cathy Somenzi by Parents Janet & Ken Somenzi 12:00 pm John J. Rybicki (Ann.) by Wife & Family
MONDAY, February 20 8:30 am Nate Anglin, S. Becker-Toro
WEDNESDAY, February 22 — Ash Wednesday 5:00 pm C. & T. Speranza, M. Childs, B. Hanusin, C. Slivka/ MC ~ Steven 7:00 pm E. O’Neill, M. & M. Blocher, M. Pukoszek, A. Zaleski/ MC ~ Nick
FRIDAY, February 24 — Stations of the Cross 7:00 pm J. Sarnowski, D. Urbaniak, E. Buksa
SATURDAY, February 25 8:30 am N. Brough, C. Burzynski 5:30 pm M., N. & S. Szala, M. & T. Zabrecky MC ~ Joe O.
SUNDAY, February 26 6:30 am S. Hamill, O. Lerma, M. Maldonado 8:00 am I. & N. Hinojosa, S. Kenning, S. Lyons, M. Nahnsen/ MC ~ Caleb 10:00 am K. Cunningham, M. DiCarlo, A. Hajduch, M. Lee, L. Loughlin/ MC ~ Joey 12:00 pm E. Diaz, D. Dy, J. Malungcot MC ~ Alyssa
John R. Stimac Sacrificial Offerings for
February 12, 2012 TIME, TALENT & TREASURE Thank you for your generosity.
Adult $ 24,176.95 Loose $ 2,797.00 Children $ 215.33
TOTAL $ 27,189.28
Pastoral Care Ministry If a friend or family member would like to receive Communion at
home, call the Pastoral Care Office at 836-8610, #315.
Readings for the Week of February 19th Sunday: Is 43:18-19, 21-22, 24b-25/2 Cor 1:18-22/Mk 2:1-12 Monday: Jas 3:13-18/Mk 9:14-29 Tuesday: Jas 4:1-10/Mk 9:30-37 Wednesday: Jl 2:12-18/2 Cor 5:20--6:2/Mt 6:1-6, 16-18 Thursday: Dt 30:15-20/Lk 9:22-25 Friday: Is 58:1-9a/Mt 9:14-15 Saturday: Is 58:9b-14/Lk 5:27-32 Next Sunday:Gn 9:8-15/1 Pt 3:18-22/Mk 1:12-15
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Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time It's astonishing to some people that we Catholics will spend time talking to a priest about our deepest faults. Confession of sins and being assured of God's forgiveness is not something that everyone
readily understands. But when we take the time to really acknowledge our sinfulness, to admit to ourselves, to God, and to
another person (the priest) what we have done wrong, we can experience the healing that comes from the confession of our sins.
The Gospel today explicitly reminds us that the forgiveness of sins is connected to healing. When we confess our sins, make an act of
contrition, and receive absolution we are healed in that sacrament. The paralyzed man who was dropped through the roof in front of
Jesus by his friends had his sins forgiven. Much to the astonishment of the crowd, the paralytic got up, rolled up his mat, and walked out the door. It was that easy. There is a lot of misconception about the sacrament of penance. Once a person gets over the hurdle of fear or
shame though, it really is as easy as the actions of the paralyzed man. There was a lot of work on the part of others to get him in front of Jesus. They had to carry him there, open the roof, and lower him
down. And before we go to confession, there is some work we have to do. We have to examine our conscience, and be willing to be
honest with ourselves and with God. But after that it's easy. We sit down, tell the priest our sins, receive a penance, pray a prayer of
contrition, receive absolution, and then go on our way. It is the work of reconciliation that takes much longer, sometimes even a lifetime. Because sin fractures relationships, confession really is the easy part.
It is what we do afterwards to heal the wounds that is the most demanding. It is a good thing Lent begins on Wednesday!
lease pray for the sick of our parish... c Coleen Alexander Margaret Amatulli Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio Irene Baker John Baker Cody Baldwin Antonio Belmonte Tom Bernacke Michael Berry Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka Michael Boston Cheryl Bostrom Stephany Burney Dorothy Campbell James Campbell Barbara Cak Thomas Cak Al Carollo Carol Carollo Joseph Cwiok Jacqueline Morrow Christian Frank Coman Vincent Corsello John Costa Mike Curtain Lucille Detterline Irene Dettmer Ann DeVoy MaryPat Devoy Irene Dickey Jeanine Doescher David Drewniak Charles Dybel Alex Eiland John L. Estrada Sherlon Evans Virginia Fitzgerald John Forde Phyllis Garber Andrea Garritano Mary Gawlikowski
Dorothy Gillespie Margaret Good Kyle Grady Howard Gralewski James Grunewald Eileen Hasse Amy Hayes Eleanore Heggi Marie Henke Evelyn Hennes Ray Humpfer Steve Izzo Dennis Jablonski Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack Rosemary Jerzak-Staszel Debbie Kaczka Robert Kalka Margaret A. Kapala Carol Keilman Patricia Kerr Rev. Matthew Kish Josephine Knesek Janet Knight Alice Kolember Dorothy Kovach Miller Krizmanic Jerome Kula Debbie Le Monier Mary Leahy Jo Lisiniewicz Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz Maria Lovell Moira McShane Lukas Carole Mackey Gregory Mahoney Mary Manchak Brady Martin Alex Mau Joseph McShane Faye Meny Sandi Merlo
Stephanie Mueller Olga Mihalo Andrew Moll Elissa Moll David Moll Jean Narvid Donna Nichols Steven Nowaczyk Valerie O’Donnell Danny Ogren Irene Orzel Ruth Ospalski Audrey Ostroff Johanna Petruch Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones Sylvester Porras Timothy Ribble Kristen Rubin Anthony Saklaczynski Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz Zachery Scriff James Secviar Renee Shehan Nick Skinner Lydia Skorupa Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Charles Stevens Florence Stevens Georgianne Suto Rose Theis Gerardo Trevino Anthony Ubuane Julia Vrbanich Joyce Wadlow Pam Wadycki Adele Wall Sue Wass Cecilia Ziegler
MONDAY, February 20 5:00 pm Spirituality & Worship ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel 7:00 pm Religious Formation ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm Holy Name Society ~ Solar Room No School — President’s Day
TUESDAY, February 21 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 pm) ~ Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel 7:00 pm RCIA ~ Conference Room
WEDNESDAY, February 22 Ash Wednesday Masses at 6:30 & 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 & 7:00 p.m. 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 6:30 pm St. Vincent De Paul ~ Conference Room No Religious Education Classes Today
THURSDAY, February 23 9:30 am Mary’s Way of the Cross ~ Church 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church No Religious Education Classes Today
FRIDAY, February 24 Knights of Columbus Fish Fry from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. ~ Gym 2:15 pm School Stations of the Cross ~ Church 7:00 pm Stations of the Cross ~ Church
SATURDAY, February 25 9:00 am Pastoral Council ~ Conference Room
SUNDAY, February 26 St. Vincent De Paul Food Collection at All Masses 4:00 pm Blue & Gold Banquet ~ Gym Parish Mission at 7:00 p.m. with Fr. Mick Kopil
Professionals Needed Catholic Charities is seeking part-time, contract LCSW or
LMHC therapists for their Hammond, East Chicago (fluency in Spanish needed), Crown Point and Portage offices. Fax resume
to: Catholic Charities HR Department at (219) 886-2428 or email: [email protected].
Respect Life Corner
Smart Chicks & Old Bags Auction and Sale of Pre-Owned Purses & Jewelry
A Right to Life Ultrasound Fundraiser Sunday, February 19, 2012 at 2:00 p.m.
St. Michael’s • 1 Wilhelm Street • Schererville
Support Local Pregnancy Counseling Centers.
Refreshments will be served. Tickets are $5.00 each and can be
purchased at the door.
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The Pastor’s Page
PLEASE REMEMBER THEM Please pray for the priests and deacons who have served the Diocese of Gary so faithfully and whose anniversaries of death are this week:
February 19: Msgr. William E. Sweigart (1970)
LENT IS COMING ARE YOU READY?
Lent begins this week. Ash Wednesday is February 22nd. Masses on Ash Wednesday are at 6:30 and 9:00 a.m. as well as at 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. Ash Wednesday is not a Holy Day of Obligation. It is, however, a day of Fast and Abstinence. Remember, the laws of Fast and Abstinence apply for Ash
Wednesday, the Fridays of Lent, and Good Friday. To refresh your memory, they are as follows:
Fast: Allows for only one full meal to be taken during the day. Two smaller meals are permitted, if necessary, to maintain strength according to one's needs. Eating solid foods between meals is not permitted. Fasting is to be observed by all Catholics who are 18 years of age through to those who have not yet celebrated their 59th birthday.
Abstinence: The practice of refraining from meat and meat products. Abstinence is to be practiced by all who are 14 years of age and older.
Fridays of Lent are Days of Abstinence Good Friday is a Day of Fast and Abstinence
Additionally, throughout the season of Lent, we give an opportunity on a couple of weeknights for the faithful to come to church, either for Mass or for Stations of the Cross. Lenten Masses are Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Stations of the Cross are Fridays at 7:00 p.m. The school students also do Stations of the Cross on Fridays at 2:15 p.m. (except on March 30th. There are no afternoon Stations on March 30th due to Spring Break). On March 16th, the 8th grade will do the Living Stations at 1:30 p.m. (instead of 2:15 p.m.) and then again at 7:00 p.m. Our Parish Penance Service will be on Monday, April 2nd at 7:00 p.m. The school children will have an opportunity to go to confession that morning beginning immediately after the 8:30 a.m. school Mass. Any parishioner is free to come to confession during the morning as well. There will be several Carmelite Fathers helping Fr. Rick and me during the morning confessions. There are many web sites for the Season of Lent. A couple I recommend are: Praying Lent daily meditations found at http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Lent/ American Catholic’s Daily Lenten Calendar http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/Seasonal/Calendar.aspx?id=5 Also, Liturgical Press has an app for your iPhone or iPad at http://www.litpress.org/apps/Not_By_Bread_Alone.htm I pray that your Lenten preparation will be fruitful that you may be prepared for Easter.
ON THE LIGHTER SIDE Food for Thought
• Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisers. • Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on
the front door forever. • God loves everyone, but probably prefers ‘fruits of the
spirit’ over ‘religious nuts’! • If God is your Co-pilot, swap seats! • Don't give God instructions, just report for duty! • Quit griping about your church; if it were perfect, you
couldn't belong. • Be ye fishers of men. You catch 'em - He'll clean 'em. • The good Lord didn't create anything without a
purpose, but mosquitoes come close. • Some minds are like concrete: thoroughly mixed up and
permanently set.
FIRST CONFESSION Congratulations to our third graders who celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time on Saturday, February 18th. Jesus left us a beautiful sacrament in which we find the love, mercy, and forgiveness of God. I hope that all of you use that wondrous sacrament often, especially during the upcoming Lenten season.
PARISH MISSION Our Parish Mission begins this coming Sunday, February 26th and continues through the evening of Tuesday, February 28th. There will be a talk on Sunday and Monday evening (February 26th and 27th) at 7:00 p.m. and a Mass with the mission talk at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 28th. Our guest speaker is Fr. Mick Kopil, the Vocation Director of the Diocese of Gary and Associate Pastor at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Schererville. I hope that you will find the time to come to our mission.
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Religious Education
February Schedule 22/ 23 No Class— Ash Wednesday. Attend Mass to Receive Ashes. Lent Begins. 29 Class
March Schedule 1 Class 7/8 Class 14/15 Class 21/22 Class 28/29 No Classes Spring Break 30 Confirmation Practice 6:00-6:45 31 Sacrament of Confirmation Mass at 10:30 a.m.
Confirmation Mass with Bishop Melczek will be Saturday, March 31st
Students should arrive by 9:15 a.m. Mass is at 10:30 a.m. Mandatory Confirmation Practice for sponsors and
students is Friday, March 30, 2012 at 6:00 p.m.
Lectors for February 25 & 26
12:00 pm Mass Bernadine E. Barrett &
Adriane Blaesing
5:30 pm Mass Ruth Banas & Jeff Urbaniak
6:30 am Mass Mark & Gabriella Bittner
8:00 am Mass Adam Baran & Jim Kaspar
10:00 am Mass Pam Frazier & Michael Skurka
Greeters for February 25 & 26
5:30 pm Mass Main: Millicent Ntiamoah
Chapel: Bill & Chris Retseck
6:30 am Mass Main: Janice Holka
Chapel: Joan McLaughlin Choir: Carla Covelli
8:00 am Mass Main: Tom & Linda Brady
Chapel: Pat Strange Choir: Rosemary Barker
10:00 am Mass Main: Diane Adley
Chapel: Joan Mucha & Gen Gogolak
Choir: Joe McShane
12:00 Noon Mass Chapel: Dominique Mercier
Choir: Pat Batchelder
Tuition Assistance Program Now Underway
Tuition assistance application forms for the 2012/2013 school year are now available in the parish office. Catholic families
who belong to a Diocese of Gary parish and have children enrolled in any diocesan school, grades 1 through 12, may apply.
Kindergarten and preschool students are not eligible. Approximately $500,000 is distributed on the basis of need to assist Catholic parents in providing Catholic faith formation, strong academic programs and safety for their children in our
Catholic schools.
Final filing deadline: Monday, February 20, 2012
This is the date that completed applications must be returned to the pastor. Forms cannot be filed directly with the diocese or
with PSAS (the processing company). Please note that the Pastor must give a recommendation based in
part upon your church attendance and your involvement at the church and school levels.
This deadline will be strictly enforced. Parents will be notified of the results in writing by April 30, 2012.
Mrs. Trelinski’s second grade class created hanging doves during their class.
My Two Cents Thoughts on Living Stewardship
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time Forgiveness, too, is a gift from God. Freed from the paralysis of sin, the man in today’s Gospel was able to stand and give witness to the power of God. How do we let sin cripple us?
Am I a good steward of the gift of God’s forgiveness?
Holy Name Society Our next meeting will be on
Monday, February 20th at 7:00 p.m. in the Solar Room.
Come to pray the Rosary at 7:00 p.m., followed by our regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. Pizza and refreshments will conclude the evening. We will discuss the annual Fish Fry on March 2, 2012
in our Parish Gym. New members are always welcome!
Lectors for February 22 Ash Wednesday
5:00 pm Mass Ann Harkenrider &
Charles Helms
7:00 pm Mass Julie Blanford &
Terri Tratar
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St. Thomas More School February 19, 2012
Congratulations D.A.R.E. Graduates
In December, the St. Thomas More 5th grade class marked the end of their four month D.A.R.E training at a graduation ceremony and reception for family members in the school’s gymnasium.
The D.A.R.E (Drug and Alcohol Resistance
Education) Program gives students the skills
needed to avoid involvement with drugs, alcohol and
gangs, and the tools they need to resist
negative peer pressure. Student were asked to
write an essay outlining how their D.A.R.E. class had impacted
their life. Winners of this year’s essay contest were Declan Urbaniak, Elizabeth Buksa, Sofia Sanchez-Plesha, Cristian Sanchez, Kameron Green and Christina Javorka. Students honored for their exemplary classroom behavior and willingness to assist others in the class were Erin Gonzales and
Tim Muta, and the lucky winner of the Daren-the-Lion doll was Christina Burzynski. A very special thanks to the Munster Police Department and Officer James Ghrist for conducting this
valuable program at St. Thomas More School. Our students will benefit greatly from these skills.
The STMS Staff
Jesse Tree "A shoot will sprout
from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit" (Isaiah
11:1). The Jesse Tree is a
centuries-old Advent devotion that has
enjoyed a resurgence of popularity in recent
years. It is valuable in locating Jesus, the
Messiah, within the lineage of the shepherd boy who became King of Israel--David, son of Jesse. The Jesse Tree is hung with ornaments
representing Old Testament people,
places and events that lead up to the life of
Jesus. The symbols hung on the tree are based on the genealogy of Jesus
as recounted by the first chapter of the
Gospel of St. Matthew.
Each week during Advent, the staff of St. Thomas More School
gathered near the entrance of the school where our Jesse Tree
was located for a special prayer service, as staff members hung their
designated ornaments on the Jesse Tree.
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Career
Networking Group
* 80% of Jobs are Unadvertised *75% of Jobs are Found through Networking
Next Meeting: Thursday, March 16, 2012
7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Speaker: Julie Pietrzak Administrative Services Supervisor
Baker & McKenzie, LLP
How Resilient Are You? • Been there, done that...
• Dealing with challenges... • How Are You Proactive?
• Shaky Confidence? This, too, shall pass...
Where: St. Thomas More Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN When: 3rd Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m.� E-Mail: [email protected]
Free. Open to All. For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job
market, employed or who can offer employment opportunities through their current professional connections.
Have your Cover Letter, Resume or Thank You Note critiqued by a professional.
Traveling Club News Are you ready for some good news?
The STM Traveling Club leaders are now making plans for the coming year and you are in for some real surprises. We have
survived winter and are now looking forward to some beautiful spring weather. Our first trip of the year will be on April 19th
to enjoy a dinner and funny Theatre Production called “Church Basement Ladies”. Doesn’t this sound intriguing?
The cost will be $63 per person and the deadline is March 26th. We expect this trip to fill quickly, so don’t delay in getting your payment in to the Parish Office to secure your
spot. Watch for more information in upcoming bulletins.
Columbian Squires Circle 4101
Esto Dignus—Be Worthy The Squires Convention will be in
Indianapolis on April 27-29th. Mark your calendar now! Membership in the Squires is open to all Catholic boys between
the ages of 10 and 17. You do not have to be a son of a Knight of Columbus to be in the Squires. If you would like more
information about the Squires, please visit our website at http://www.stmsquires4101.org to find a full list of our upcoming activities, meeting dates as well as information about the Squires.
Questions about the Squires? Contact Chief Counselor, Gregg Blocher at 219-902-1171 or [email protected]
Special Lenten Program Sponsored by the Diocesan Peace & Social Justice Commission
Tuesday, Feb. 28th - 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Our Lady of Consolation Hall at 8303 Taft in Merrillville
Topic: “Global Hunger” With Speakers: Fr. Tom Mcquaid &
Fellican Randriamanantenasoa from Catholic Relief Services The invitation to this Peace and Social Justice Program is
extended to ALL parishioners. There is no fee.
Elizabeth Ministry Service of Light Mass
All are invited to attend a Memorial Mass for families whose lives have been touched by the loss of a child in miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, or any other cause of childhood death at St. Maria Goretti, in Dyer, IN, on Sunday, February 26 at 1:30
pm. We will recognize by name the children who have passed away. You may also bring a photo or an item to be displayed
in remembrance of your loved one. For more information, please contact Patti at 322-6580 or Sue at 838-5755.
Mary’s Way of the Cross Everyone is welcome! Bring your friends.
Come journey with Mary on her “Way of the Cross”. Relive that journey to Calvary with Mary’s assistance and let us walk Jesus’ last steps with his Mother; let our faith deepen and allow Jesus to
rise once more in our life. Thursday Mornings during March in the Church
(after the 9:00 a.m. Mass)
March 1 • March 8 • March 15 March 22 • March 29
Catholic Relief Services Rice Bowl On Wednesday, February 22, 2012, Catholics around the world
will begin their Lenten journey. For many Catholics in the United States, the spiritual journey of Lent is enriched by their
participation in Catholic Relief Services’ Operation Rice Bowl. For the six weeks of Lent, Operation Rice bowl introduces participants to
countries where poor communities are being strengthened by the work of the
Catholic Church through Relief Services. A collection of short videos, personal stories, and simple meatless
recipes from each country, along with a daily guide, provides reflections and
ideas to enhance the Lenten experience for Catholics of all ages. As part of our community’s observance
of Lent, we ask all families to participate in this program of prayer, fasting, learning and giving. Please be sure to take home a
Rice Bowl packet and follow this simple yet powerful Lenten practice. Visit www.crs.org for more information.
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SACRIFICIAL GIVING: • It isn’t about simply wri ng a check. It is about sharing the gifts
God has given us. • Do something counter‐cultural by committing a portion of your
hard-earned treasure to St. Thomas More Parish. In return, you won’t receive anything of consumer value. You will receive a change of heart — your faith life will change for the better.
• Make a leap of faith; take the challenge. In thanksgiving, share
what you have. Just as God has enriched your life, your stewardship enriches the lives of others.
Please submit your Sacrificial Giving Card as soon as possible. We are looking for
100% Parish Participation. Please return your card to the Parish Office or place it in the
collection basket at Mass. Thank you.
f{tÜ|Çz
fàxãtÜwá{|Ñ THE JOY OF
90% My Family’s
Needs
5% Parish Needs
3% Needs of Others
2% Diocesan C.S.A.
WHAT PORTION SHOULD I GIVE BACK TO GOD?
Altar & Rosary Society Chili Bingo
Wednesday, March 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the Cafeteria Chili Bingo tickets are now on sale for $5.00 in the Parish
Office. We will begin with the recitation of the Rosary promptly at 6:45 p.m. & then let
the games begin! Bingo that is! Chef Kathleen Pagorek will be making her
fabulous Chili for us to enjoy while we play Bingo. All ladies attending are asked to
bring a NEW DOOR PRIZE that evening, valued at $10.00 or less (please give to Therese Sons when you arrive).
Call Cindy Keilman at 923-9862 to learn more.
Emmaus Program 2012 The Emmaus Program is a four week adult formation for
parishioners, teachers and catechists.
The Spirituality of Reconciliation Fr. Kevin Scalf, C.PP.S., Presenter
Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on February 23 and March 1, 8, & 15 at Our Lady of Consolation Hall
The Christian’s spiritual and moral life rests on one’s faith in Christ; make Christ’s attitude your own be transformed.
Stages of Faith— The Journey Dan Lowery, Ph. D., Presenter
Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 1, 8, 15 & 22 Calumet College at 2400 New York Avenue in Whiting
Fee: Total Cost for Each 4 Week Session is $20 Registration forms are located in the lobby of the Parish Of-fice. For more info or to register, contact Anne Verbeke at (219) 7659-9292, ext. 280 or email: [email protected]
Subscribe Now! Faith formation is the work of a lifetime! Enjoy the Good News of the Catholic Church with your subscription to the
Northwest Indiana Catholic newspaper. For less than taking your family to a fast food
restaurant, you can receive this weekly paper filled with current, positive and informative
news about faith; something the entire family will enjoy. A one year subscription (44 issues),
including our annual diocesan directory, is only $26. New subscriptions and renewals are available by using your special
envelope, or placing a check or money order into the parish collection basket. Other payment options are available at
nwicatholic.com (pay securely using your Visa, MasterCard or Discover debit/credit). Subscribe by March 12, 2012.
Attention Council & Commission Members!
Please remember to attend the Council & Commission Night Monday, February 20th from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
at Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Merrillville. All who are interested in the structure of the Pastoral Council and
Commission &/or parishioners are welcome to attend.
Forty Days for Life Kick-Off Event on February 21, 2012 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Take a leap of faith and get in-volved with 40 Days for Life.
Join us at Our Lady of Consolation
Vamos Hall at 8303 Taft Street in Merrillville.
Music, guest speakers and refreshments.
Vocations Committee A Message to our young Men & Women…
May you experience the powerful strength of faith! The world needs your parayers and service. It would lead you to know
the lasting joy of serving others. Minds may even be opened to explore an ordained or religious life, working together with
priests to enrich the faith of parish communities.
Page 10
Fish Fry Season Begins!!! Monsignor Weis Knights of Columbus
Presents its Annual
FISH FRY Friday, February 24, 2012 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the Gym
Don’t Forget That Our
Parish Mission begins next weekend!
Fr. Mick Kopil, Associate Pastor and Director of Diocesan Vocations, will be the presenter for the
St. Thomas More Mission. Please join us at 7:00 p.m. each evening in the Church.
Sunday, February 26th The Universal Call to Holiness
Monday, February 27th A Call to Marriage
Tuesday, February 28th Mass at 7:00 p.m.
Fr. Kopil will reflect during his Homily on how To Celebrate Life for People Who are Single,
Religious & Priests
Lake Perch, Shrimp or Combination Plate—All $12
Baked Cod— Only $10 Served with Bread & Butter, Beets, Macaroni & Cheese,
3 Bean Salad and Fries Children’s Dinners Only $6
The Boy Scouts will provide Assorted Desserts (free will offering)
Coffee & Beverage Included Cash Bar for Beer & Wine
Lenten Prayer Book If you would like to receive daily
Lenten Reflections, please email your name to the following address:
Prepare during the Lenten season with thoughtful reflections and readings.
Senior Citizens
Monthly Luncheon We will meet on
Monday, February 27th at 11:30 a.m. at the Top Notch Restaurant on Indianapolis Boulevard
in Highland. All are welcome to join us.
Upcoming Meetings:
Regular Meeting Wednesday, March 7th at 1:00 p.m. Community Room at Kish Funeral Home
Mass for Our Deceased Members Sunday, March 18th at the 10:00 a.m. Mass
Breakfast to follow. Reservations are required.
Pot Luck Lunch Saturday, March 24th from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m.
Weis Center
Regular Meeting & New Officer Voting Wednesday, April 4th at 1:00 p.m.
Community Room at Kish Funeral Home
St. Vincent De Paul Your help is needed to fill our pantry!
Next Sunday is the monthly collection for the SVDP pantry. Items we are currently out of are:
rice• jelly pancake mix • pancake syrup
tomato paste dish soap• detergent
If you have any extras at home or spot a sale, please keep the pantry in mind. And
just as important, if not more so, your prayers for our
clients are needed, too. Thank you.
The Church in Central Europe Next week we will take up the Collection for the Church in
Central and Eastern Europe. This Collection supports Catholic organizations that provide food, shelter, medical care, catechesis,
and companionship for the lonely in a region still struggling in the aftermath of atheistic Soviet rule. Your donations help to restore the strength of the Church in the region. Please give
generously to the Collection next week. Visit www.usccb.org/nationalcollections to learn more.
Living Stations The 8th Grade Students of St. Thomas More School
will once again be presenting
Living Stations of the Cross Friday, March 16th at 1:30 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Everyone in the parish is invited to join us for one, or both, of these moving devotions.