St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church . Naperville IL . 630.355.8980 Roman Catholic Diocese of Joliet-in-Illinois

Most Rev. R. Daniel Conlon, Bishop . Most Rev. Joseph Siegel, Auxiliary Bishop . Most Rev. Joseph L. Imesch, Bishop Emeritus

Feast of the Holy Family, December 30, 2012

*indicates part-time staff

Nick Furibondo 898.5224 Richard Strassburger 499.5676

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 e-mail: mainoffice@stapostle.org 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 Priests Rev. Don E. McLaughlin – Pastor, x102, dmclaughlin@stapostle.org Rev. Rodolphe Arty, C.S.C. – Parochial Vicar, x 103, rarty@stapostle.org Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm. – Weekend Associate, robco@robco.org Permanent Deacons Rev. Mr. Michael (Kathryn) Barrett – x220, meabarrett@att.net Rev. Mr. Jim (Mary Jo) Breen – 630.357.4853, jimb4853@yahoo.com Rev. Mr. Larry (Susan) Kearney – x225, lrkearney@comcast.net Rev. Mr. Chuck (Sue) Lane – x220, chucklane2@juno.com Rev. Mr. Pat (Mary Jo) Lennon – x220, presence.now@gmail.com Liturgy Kate Cuddy – Director of Music and Liturgy, x112, kcuddy@stapostle.org Scott Knisley – Asst. Director of Music and Liturgy, x111, sknisley@stapostle.org Lori Culberson – Liturgy Coordinator, x120, lculberson@stapostle.org Theresa Sheliga* – Sacristan Coordinator, x116 Faith Formation Sandy Renehan – Principal at All Saints Catholic Academy 630.961.6125 Patti Dougherty – Director of Religious Education, x109, pdougherty@stapostle.org Brett Adams – Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, x117, badams@stapostle.org Peggy Goralski – Associate Partner of Youth Ministry, x123, pgoralski@stapostle.org Chari Rosales – Director of Adult Education & RCIA x138, crosales@stapostle.org Nancy Cirmo – Religious Education Assistant, x118, ncirmo@stapostle.org Outreach and Social Justice Michael Ryder – Director of Outreach & Social Justice, x121, mryder@stapostle.org Anne Schultz – OSJ Partner, x113, aschultz@stapostle.org Sally Meno* – OSJ Financial, x137, smeno@stapostle.org Pastoral Care Jan Olah – Director of Pastoral Care, x124 Felicia Lawlor*, M.S., R.N. – Faith Community Nurse, x104, flawlor@stapostle.org Rose Grumbine*, R.N., – Faith Community Nurse, x140, rgrumbine@stapostle.org Administration Janet Simmons – Finance/Business Officer, x106, jsimmons@stapostle.org Diane McQueen – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x101, dmcqueen@stapostle.org Kathy Ferguson – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x100, mainoffice@stapostle.org Elizabeth Fisher* – Evening/Saturday Receptionist Mary Wright* – Evening/Saturday Receptionist Marge Coronado – Administration and R.E. Asst, x219, mcoronado@stapostle.org Marilyn DeMeo* – Database Coordinator (T/Th), x107, mdemeo@stapostle.org Angie Tuttle – Bulletin and Web Editor, Liturgy Asst, x110, atuttle@stapostle.org Bob Hartmann* – Facility Manager, x133, facility@stapostle.org Pastoral Leadership Community Christine Berta 579.4294 Pam Foster 699.3044 Charles Haydon 369.2262

Commission Facilitators Worship Kate Cuddy 355.8980 Parish Life Faith Formation Chris Baker 548.1733 Administration Charles Haydon 369.2262 Service Carol Healy 961.0942 Finance Chairman Bruce Patterson 513.218.0006

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

Weekend Saturday Vigil — 4:30 p.m. Sunday — 8:00, 9:30, 11:15 a.m., and 6:00 p.m.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every first Friday, 9:00 — 9:30 a.m.

Sacrament of Reconciliation Reconciliation is available Saturday, 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., in the Reconciliation Room of the Chapel. Our priests are available during the week by appointment. Commu-nal Penance services are held occasionally during 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 12:30 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 630.305.6318 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 630.355.8980. Counseling Service Call Samaritan Interfaith 630.357.2456 or Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 630.355.8980 x 124. Sunday Nursery Nursery care is available for your child age one (walking) to four at the 9:30 a.m. Mass. For more information call the church office.

As we celebrate the Feast of the Most Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph today, my thoughts turn to the families of those precious little first graders at Sandy Hook School in Newtown, Connecticut, whose lives ended so horrifically, the families of the heroic adults who tried to protect the children and lost their own lives doing so, and the family of a mother

whose son took her and his life as well. My thoughts also turn to the families of the two children tragi-cally lost in a terrible crime right in our own Brookdale neighbor-hood just two months ago. I carry with me the sorrowful memory of my own mother’s death 55 years ago the day after Christmas - I was five years old at the time. While time lessens the pain, I know that for all these families, life will never be the same – especially at Christmas. In a time that is supposed to be filled with family joy and laughter, children excited over their new Christmas gifts, these families are overwhelmed with sorrow. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of them in this Christmas season. Can their broken hearts ever be consoled? Can families who struggle with brokenness in any of its ugly forms ever find strength and solace? As we reflect upon the Feast of the Holy Family perhaps some degree of comfort can be felt knowing that the Holy Family experienced heartache as well. When Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the Temple, Simeon told Mary that be-cause of her child her heart would be pierced with a sword. We know all too well that sword of sorrow that pierced Mary’s heart! The frantic search for her teenage son when he decided to stay behind and teach the elders! The many times he was rejected. And ultimately the horrifying death he endured upon the cross. But just like the families who suffer now, the Holy Family and these families also have joyful family memories…the wedding feast at Cana, the healing and miracles Jesus performed, the hope and message he gave. I suspect those families grieving today have many good memories of birthday parties and picnics, playing in the park, and just being together. And so it is, in these most terri-ble and unimaginable events and times in our lives, we CAN turn to the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph and find ourselves in THEIR story. May the love of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, the most Holy Family embrace you and your family, as perfect or imperfect as it may be, with peace this Christmas season. May the Holy Family wrap in a tender cloak of mercy all those families who are suffering and grieving at this time. And may the Holy Family bless the parish family of St. Thomas the Apostle!

Feast of the Holy Family December 30, 2012 Beloved, we are God’s children now, what we shall be has not yet been revealed. — 1 John 3:2a

Welcome Guests and Visitors! We’re so glad you’re here and invite you to walk the path of faith with us. St. Thomas strives to provide a spiritual home where all are welcome, where the healing, reconciling, liberating love of God is shared by all. We believe the church is the sacrament of God’s saving presence in the world, join us! Would you like to become a Parishioner? Join us in the gym for Welcome Sunday between 9:00 and 9:30 or 10:30 and 11:15 January 13.

From the Pastor’s Desk...

Christmas 2012, Page 4

Worship Commission—Liturgy & Music

Presider’s Schedule January 5/6

Saturday 4:30 pm, Fr. Bob Colaresi, Deacon Jim Breen Sunday 8:00 am, Fr. Matt Lorenz, Deacon Mike Barrett 9:30 am, Fr. Bob Colaresi, Deacon Pat Lennon 11:15 am, Fr. Don McLaughlin 6:00 pm, Fr. Don McLaughlin, Deacon Larry Kearney

Schedule is subject to change.

Adoption Blessings A blessing for all parents and families who have recently adopted a child or who are in the process of adopting will be offered after all masses on the Feast of the Holy Family, December 29 and 30. New Year’s Liturgy Schedule The Solemity of Mary, Mother of God takes place on January 1, New Year’s Day. This is a holy day of obligation (opportunity). St. Thomas will have a Vigil Mass on December 31 at 4:30 p.m., as well as Masses at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on January 1. Wedding Workshop The next music and liturgy workshop to help couples choose music and prepare their wedding mass or ceremony will be held Saturday, January 5, from 10:00 a.m. to noon in the Church. All couples who will be wed at St. Thomas must attend one of these workshops which are held several times throughout the year. This workshop should not be confused with the Engaged Couples Retreat Day, which couples must also attend. After January 5, the next workshops are scheduled for February 23, April 6, and September 21. Contact Diane in the General Office at 630.355.8980, ext. 101 or dmcqueen@stapostle.org to register.

The Christmas Season In the Christian tradition, Christmas lasts much more than a day or a week. The Christmas season is celebrated from December 24 (Christmas Eve) until the Liturgy of the Baptism of the Lord on January 13. This year the Christmas season is almost three weeks long. The wisdom of the church allows us to savor, over these days, the saving mystery of Jesus incarna-tion and the many manifestations of his glory, peace and love in our lives. Christmas Tree Help Needed! Come help take down the beautiful decorations. Many hands make for EASY work! Please gather around 6:00 p.m. on January 14. Many hands were available last year and the job was completed in under an hour!

Happy New Year! “Whoever is on a journey towards God goes from one beginning to another beginning. Will you be among those who dare to tell themselves: ‘Begin again! Leave discouragement behind! Let your soul live!’” – Brother Roger of Taize

Page 5 — Christmas 2012

Pray For Our Parish

Mass Intentions Monday, December 31, 2012 4:30 †Anthony Rizzi, by Family †Frank Gorman, by The O’Reilly Family

Tuesday, January 1, 2013 9:00 For the People of St. Thomas 11:00 †Marilyn Kane, by Ed Kane

Wednesday, January 2, 2013 8:30 For the Priests and Deacons of our Parish

Thursday, January 3, 2013 8:30 †Pat Patterman, by Jan Arvin

Friday, January 4, 2013 8:30 For the People of Newtown, Connecticut

Saturday, January 5, 2013 8:30 For the Elderly and Homebound 4:30 †Brian Viehl, by The Osterman Family †Frank Gorman, by Prayer Shawl Ministry & Pastoral Care & Parish Nursing

Sunday, January 6, 2013 8:00 For Newborns 9:30 †Don Sauls, by Tom & Mimi Dillon †Dr. Richard Strassburger, by St. Thomas Staff 11:15 †Charles & Lenora McCulley, by The Deneen Family †Anthony Rizzi, by Family 6:00 For the People of St. Thomas

Lt. Joseph Zito Joseph Michalowicz

John Osborne Jennifer Slown Pvt. Sonia Carrillo

Cpt. Matthew Haselhorst Sgt. William Stuart 1st Lt. Chris Turley Matt Nelson

SN Joel Curry SR Jeffrey Bates Airman Alex Dvorak

Please Pray for our Men and Women Serving in the Military Our parish community would like to recognize and remember the following individuals in prayer:

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Brooke Sica A1C Maxwell Dempsey AB Jon Babiarz, Special Forces

Air Force National Guard Senior Airman Jacob Brancaleon

U.S. Army Lt. Alanna Casey Staff Sgt. Aaron Simms PFC Sean Wesley SPC Eric Servatius Medic Jeremy See Warrant Officer Aviation Kyle Zimmerman

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Kevin Martin Corporal Aaron Murphy Captain Brad Rothman Lance Corporal Oliver Buckley Lt. Colin Miller-Ratcliffes Lance Corporal Tommy Balducci

U.S. Navy AT3 Amanda Schlarman Ensign Jason Coons Alex Metzger

U.S. Coast Guard

Call the parish office 630.355.8980 to include someone you love in the Military prayer list.

For the sick… Glenn Heywood, husband of Carol Larry Kieklak, husband of Mary, father of Beth Pojman Debbie Owen, daughter of Marlene Sage Roberto Garcia, husband of Sofia Earl & Virginia Potjeau; parents of Laverne Thomas Kelly, husband of Nadia Maria Borjon Cortes Jane Vanderheide, mother of Susan Bob Ptacek, brother in-law of Pat & Bill Minihan Diane Warren, mother of Amanda Morgan Dennis & Chris, friends of Jenny Sirois Ron Kramer, friend of Jan Olah Mike Consideine, husband of Beth For the deceased… Deborah Kodl, mother of Susan Colucci Anne Purduski, mother of Steve Phyllis Coleman, aunt of Joe & Carolyn Cuzzone The children and adults that died in the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut

Creator all-powerful, in your wisdom and love, your Son, begotten before the dawn of time, became in time a member of our human family.

Give to parents the courage to journey with their children, seeking always the paths that you point out. To all of us, daughters and sons, give the grace of respect for those who nurtured and protected us. May we come at last to be sheltered in the home you have prepared for us.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God with us, Your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.

Christmas 2012, Page 6

Faith and Formation Commission– Adult

The Christmas story reminds us that Jesus came into our world as a small, fragile and helpless being who owned absolutely nothing. Throughout most of His adult ministry, Jesus lived modestly and simply with few possessions to call His own; yet He managed just fine. We live in a culture that pro-motes the acquisition of material things. Growing into adulthood in our society seems to be automati-cally accompanied by the expectation to buy elec-tronics, cars, houses and all the stuff we think we need for our kids. Yet, after the kids reach adult-hood and leave, the desire to downsize often kicks in and we start to get rid of much of the stuff we’ve accumulated. Kids don’t have as much stuff as adults do. By definition, they are materially poor. They don’t really, technically own much of anything. All they have has been gifted to them by their parents and other adults for their comfort, use and convenience. Maybe that’s part of why Jesus often heralded the faith of children whose few possessions have less opportunity to get in the way of their faith. If we’re really honest about it, we too will recognize that all the treasures of the earth have been gifted to us by our Heavenly Father for our comfort and use. If we had fewer tangible possessions to cling to, would we have less to get in the way of our faith? Jesus, help us to cling less tightly to our stuff and to re-member that all we have has been gifted by God.

C.A.R.E. CORNER

Save these dates! As you fill in your 2013 calendar, please give these dates your consideration: Jan 9 ALPHA begins Jan 11 Sophia’s Circle Native American Spirituality Jan 13 Word of Love – All About Relationships Jan 25-27 Men’s Retreat: The Challenge of God Feb 4-6 Parish Mission Eucharist: Core of Our Catholic Faith Feb 22-24 Women’s Retreat: Energy for Wholeness—Beauty Reflected

Watch this space and the St. Thomas website for details!

Winter Art Class “Pencil Drawing Fundamentals,” a 6-week art class taught by noted local artist Bob Sunyog is scheduled for Saturdays from 9am to noon in the St. Thomas Senior Center, beginning Jan. 12 thru Feb. 16, 2013.

Registration forms and a supply list are available in the Gathering Area. This is an opportunity to enjoy and benefit from professional art in-struction for only $70 – makes a great Christmas gift! Be sure to register early, as class size is lim-ited to the first 12 applicants.

For more information, contact Anne Schultz at 355.8980 x113 or aschultz@stapostle.org. Seeking faith?

One of the iconic images of the Christmas season is that of the Magi. Seeking something, someone, they struck out on a journey whose destination they could only guess at. Are you seeking something – someone – you could have faith in? The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process is for anyone and everyone who is traveling the journey of faith. Whether you are taking the first tentative steps and simply want a place where your questions are welcomed, or you have been on the road of faith in another Christian denomination, and seek the Full Communion of the Catholic Church, know that you are most welcome. To inquire further about the RCIA process, or to begin it, contact Chari Rosales, Director of Adult Faith Formation at 630.355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org. ALL ARE WELCOME!

December 30, Luke 2:1-11

Do you realize that being in the temple at age 12 was Jesus’ coming of age and attending his first Passover as a “grown” man. The knowledge of his divinity did not exempt him from family life. He returned home with his parents, Mary and Joseph, and was obedient to them. Do we really listen not only to our parents but to our children as well?

Page 7 — Christmas 2012

What are you listening to? What do you long to hear? On Sunday, January 13, from 4:15 to 6:00 p.m., the St. Thomas Faith and Spiritual Formation Com-mission presents Word of Love: All About Rela-tionships. Presenters from Samaritan Interfaith will focus on the question, “What makes a good connec-tion/relationship in this busy, wired world?” This workshop for adults and teens will help participants understand the link between stress and relationships, and how to connect to yourself, family, community and God. An RSVP to Peggy Goralski (630.355.8980 x123 or pgoralski@stapostle.org) is requested by Jan. 10, but walk-ins are welcome. Start the New Year on a positive note – renew your relationships, or be ready to nurture new ones!

The Mass: Heart of the Church Bread of Life, Word of Love, Hope for All – This year’s parish theme expresses what the Mass means to us and for us. But what are the essentials of our lit-urgy? Why do they still matter? How does ritual lan-guage and action shape our prayer and our lives? Come to explore, interact with, and reflect on the Mass with Chari Rosales, Director of Adult Faith For-mation, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on two successive Mondays: January 7 (Liturgy of the Word) and Janu-ary 14 (Liturgy of the Eucharist). To reserve your seat, or for more information, contact Chari at 630.355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org. In this Year of Faith proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI, come to deepen and renew your own!

Explore…Define…Connect…Ask the questions If you could ask God one question, what would it be…? ALPHA meets participants where they are, starting with their questions. If you have questions about the Christian faith, or would like a refresher course on what you believe, sign up for ALPHA. No matter where you are, or what you know, ALPHA helps put the pieces together. ALPHA meets on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. beginning January 9 in the St. Thomas Light-house. It starts with dinner, is followed by a video presentation and small group discussions. It’s a great way to cap off a day, perfect for commuters, couples and singles. ALPHA is offered at no cost to participants. Brochures with registration forms are available in the Gathering Area and outside the Adult Faith Formation Office; you can also register on-line at the St. Thomas website. Questions can be addressed to Chari Rosales at 355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org.

Register now for ALPHA

Soul Searchers Meet January 12 St. Thomas Soul Searchers will meet once a month to explore and discover truths in Simone Weil’s Waiting for God. Weil was a philosopher, political activist, and agnostic turned Christian mystic who died in 1943. This collection of her letters and essays offers her non-traditional views of Christianity. Weil said, “Love of God is pure when joy and suffering inspire an equal degree of gratitude.” This month’s reading: Essays p. 57-65 and p. 143-151. The next meeting of Soul Searchers is Saturday, January12 from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. in the Rectory Basement. Contact Mary Maloney with questions at 630.355.8980. Come whenever your schedule allows and enjoy a thought provoking experience. All are welcome to attend this monthly discussion group.

Christmas 2012, Page 8

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

Question of the Week...

How do you honor your family?

Faith and Formation Commission– Youth First Eucharist Preparation Information regarding preparation for First Eucha-rist has been mailed to the parents of First Communi-cants. If you did not receive the registration form and the information concerning the parent enrichment session and family prayer services, please call the Faith Formation / Religious Education Office imme-diately at 630.305.6318. Children in first grade need to be in the Religious Education Program or attend-ing All Saints Catholic Academy to receive the sacra-ment in second grade. Contact the Faith Formation Office to register your First Grader in Religious Edu-cation if they are not enrolled at this time. 1st Reconciliation Parent Meetings Parents of children, who are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time, have been sent letters regarding parent meetings. Parents should attend one session from the following dates: Saturday, January 12 at 8:30 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Academy or Monday, January 14 at 7:15 p.m. at St. Thomas. If you have a child who should be preparing for their first Reconciliation and did not receive an infor-mation letter, please call the Religious Education of-fice 630.305.6318.

Kindergarteners as Church Kindergarteners who attend Religious Education will have a church visit on Saturday, January 12 in-stead of their regular Religious Education class. An adult family member is invited to attend with their Kindergartener. Both sessions of Kindergarten are to attend 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. and should be dropped off in the Church Narthex. After January 12, please stop by the hallway across from the nursery in the Ministry Center to see the wall hanging made by the children, representing these youth as “church”. Thank you to the following catechists and aides who spend Saturday mornings sharing our faith with these children.

Tom Cahill Marge Coronado (Grade Level Coordinator) Christina Coronado Burnice Monteiro Sharon Yelaska

2013 Pilgrimages Led by Fr. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm.

Carmelite & Colonial Spain: April 7 - 19 Focusing on the spirituality of Carmelite Sts. Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. We visit Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, Segovia, Salamanca, Avila, Alba de Tormes, and Fontiveros - Spain is a wonderful country, rich in history and heritage.

France: July 7 - 16: following the life & spirituality of St. Thérèse. Includes Lourdes, Normandy, Lisieux, American Cemetery at Normandy Beaches, Alençon, and Paris. A country of rich history and prophetic saints in the 19th century: Bernadette, Catherine Labouré and Thérèse.

Holy Land – in November or December – dates & prices still being worked out.

For further more information, full brochure or registration form, please contact: Darlene Jindra, Carmelite Spiritual Center, 8433 Bailey Road, Darien, IL 60561, 630-969-4141 - CSCRetreat@aol.com

Page 9 — Christmas 2012

Placement Exams for 8th Graders Benet Academy, Lisle Saturday, January 12 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.— 8:30 arrival Admission priority is given to 8th grade Catholic applicants who test at Benet. Online application and more details at www.benet.org.

Joliet Catholic Academy Saturday, January 12 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. — 8:20 a.m. arrival Students should enter through the main entrance off of Larkin Avenue. The exam will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. Students will exit through the south doors, on Ingalls Avenue. Please bring the $30 exam fee, two #2 pencils, calculator (optional), and your social security number and completed JCA application. The application is available at www.jca-online.org or call Admissions Office at 815.741.0500 for assis-tance. Get prepared for the exam by attending JCA’s Pre-Exam Workshop Wednesday, January 9, at 6:30 p.m. Students will receive a brief overview of the EXPLORE Test and have the chance to complete sample test questions. For more information, contact JCA’s Admissions Office at 815.741.0500 or admis-sions@jca-online.org or www.jca-online.org.

Aurora Central Catholic High School Saturday, January 5 8:00 to 11:45 a.m. — 7:45 arrival The Placement Exam must be taken on this day in order to qualify for the many scholarships. No pre-registration is needed. Exam fee $30.00 Attention Parents: Please come during the Place-ment Exam for “Ask Father Etheredge” – A ques-tion and answer session! Enjoy coffee, rolls, and pertinent information from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. For more information please call Brian Casey at 630.907.0095 ext. 109 or email bcasey@auroracentral.com.

Marmion Academy Saturday, January 12 9:00 a.m. The Placement Exam is for 8th grade boys. To regis-ter for the exam, an application for admission must be filed prior to or on the day of the exam. To file an application or receive more information on Marmion Academy, visit www.marmion.org or contact the Office of Admissions at 630.897.6936 ext. 227.

Middle School Religious Education

Middle school RE classes resume Saturday, January 12

and Monday, January 14. Enjoy the break!

Catechist Meeting and Faith Formation Sessions Tuesday, January 8 is the next catechist meeting for Grades Pre-K through fifth grade beginning at 7:15 p.m. with formation on Prayer and Spirituality. The large group meeting is at 7:30 p.m., followed by Grade Level meetings. Elementary Faith Formation sessions will resume Saturday, January 12 and Tuesday, January 14. With this New Year, let’s renew our commitment to one another and work together in sharing our faith. The Gift of Catechists and Volunteers Middle school religious education at St. Thomas happens because of a dedicated group of catechists and volunteers. These volunteers include these catechists: Maureen Overman, Amy Duran, Nancy Trattner, Christina Coronado, Josh McCormack, Kate Caruso, Pat Caruso, Steve Purduski, Evan Thurman-Keup, Darlene Dionne-Karales, Mary Szczap, Brooke Eber, Joan Vitro, Monica Parker, John Kennedy, Steven Grumbine, Christine Cast, Sharon Meyer, and Amy Trujillo. There are also several administrative helpers, hall monitors, and substitute catechists who help to make each class session run smoothly. These volunteers are: Chris Baker, Ann Clawson, Mark Goralski, Lorna Perry, Lourdes Chew, Ronnie Stewart, Else Mendez, Myrna DeLara, Cindy Newendyke, Sue La-Barbera, Marge Coronado, and Wanda Fattes. Thanks to all of these volunteers for sharing the gifts of their time and talent with St. Thomas middle school students.

Christmas 2012, Page 10

Service Commission—Outreach & Social Justice

World Peace Day Interfaith Prayer Service St. Thomas is once again a co-sponsor of the Eighth Annual World Peace Day event on Tuesday, January 1, 2:00 pm at Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Avenue. This year’s event is “Breaking Down the Mysteries Between Us: Seeking Peace Through Understanding” presented by Rev. Emmy Lou Belcher. Rev. Belcher became the settled minister of the DuPage Unitarian Universalist Church in 2005 and has been a UU minister since 1989. Rev. Belcher holds a Masters of Religious Studies from the University of Detroit and did her undergraduate work at the University of Michigan. As well as being a professional artist, teacher and minister, Rev. Belcher has worked since her teenage years for civil rights for all people and peaceful relations between nations.

• Peanut Butter • Jelly • Canned Tuna • Bars of Bath Soap

January Food Collection Next Weekend Jan 5 & 6

Items especially needed are:

If you can’t bring food to Mass next weekend, bring it when convenient… just leave it outside the

Outreach Office or in the Gathering Area.

Caring is thinking with your heart!

JANUARY KIDSKARE Ask if there is a chore you can do during the week

- help with after-Christmas cleaning - to earn a box of Spaghetti to bring to the altar when you come to church Saturday or Sunday.

Thank You!

As part of your offering, please bring your gift of food to the altar when the gifts of bread and wine are brought forward.

• Cereal • Spaghetti • Large Soup • Pasta Sauce • Canned fruit

Page 11 — Christmas 2012

A New Year greeting to the St. Thomas Community

Your OSJ Office (Outreach and Social Justice) wishes you and your family and larger community of friends a fulfilling and renewing New Year. And we extend that wish to the global community in search of justice and peace.

O Prince of Peace, May your love strip us naked of all weapons and strategies of conquest, which are not the tools of lovers, wise ones and God's children. Let us not lust for power but rather strive for the insight to be guided on the Way of Peace. Creator of All, we join our minds and hearts with the people of our planet Earth. We recognize the deep bond that we have with each created being. We rejoice in your sacred presence among us and in us. Divine Oneness, we celebrate the goodness, the beauty, the talents and the spirituality of all these brothers and sisters of ours. We stand in solidarity with all those who suffer in any way. Rekindle our love, revitalize our compassion, and renew our awareness of the unity we share with all beings. (from 2012 Advent Peace Prayer Service-Sisters of St. Joseph-La Grange, IL)

Haiti Twinning Christmas Card — Your Help is Needed St. Thomas Haiti Twinning Education Team is continuing to offer a Haitian card along with a picture of a Duchity student that you might send to your family and friends, perhaps in lieu of a gift. The gift of education to the children of Duchity is a gift that will last a lifetime. A donation of $50 is suggested, but any amount you are able to donate will be wonderful. Contact Mike in the Outreach and Social Justice Office to obtain the Christmas cards (mryder@stapostle.org, 630.355.8980 ext 121). This year the Duchity Education Fund goal is $40,000 … a reduction of $5,000 from last year. To date, just over $22,000 has been raised for the three schools helped by St. Thomas. That represents 55% of goal. Thank you for your help.

“Movie Bingo” Another way to benefit the Duchity Education Fund and have a fun-filled evening … Nuns4Fun, the group who brought you the popular “Late Nite Catechism” production, is coming to St. Thomas the Apostle on Satur-day, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. Their performance of “Movie Bingo” is sure to keep you laughing all night long. All proceeds will benefit the Duchity Education Fund! Tickets go on sale soon.

Christmas 2012, Page 12

Pastoral Care To all St. Thomas Visitors and Parishioners: Health Ministry nurse volunteers are available after the 4:30 p.m. Saturday Mass and the 8:00, 9:30, and 11:15 a.m. Sunday Masses next weekend for Blood Pressure Screening and Education. The screening site is the Deacon’s office, the first office left as you exit the Church (West Wing). All are welcome; participants who are B/P curious, and those who are known hypertensive. Call your Parish Nurses 630.355.8980 Felicia x 104 or Rose x 140, with questions, concerns or to schedule another time.

With grateful hearts for your service,

we offer

A Day of Reflection, Prayer, and Renewal

for all those involved in ministry Saturday, Feb 9

Please mark your calendars. More information will follow.

WellspringWellspringWellspring

In the Hospital? Our Naperville Community of Churches joins together to bring Eucharist and prayer to Edward Hospital Catholic patients. However, if you wish a visit from St. Thomas while in the hospital or homebound call the parish office 355-8980 or the Pastoral Care Office x 124

Counseling Service: Call Samaritan Interfaith 357-2456 or

Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 355-8980 x 124

Wellspring Event- Save the Date! Tuesday February 26, 2013 7:30-9pm Wellspring is a ministry dedicated to presenting interactive educational experiences to integrate a wholistic way of living to the parish. To RSVP or for more information, contact Rose Grumbine at 355-8980 x140 or rgrumbine@stapostle.org.

Page 13 — Christmas 2012

Stewardship Commission Last Weekend’s stewardship of financial gifts...

Weekly Sunday Offertory December 9, 2012 Sunday Collection Offering 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 7/1/10 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

$21,164 n/a

$7,786 $28,950

$869,032

$34,761 $915,850 ($46,818)

$1,904,992 $1,035,960

Today’s Readings First Reading — Hannah conceived, and at the end of her term bore a son whom she called Samuel (1 Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28) or Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14. Psalm — Blessed are they who dwell in your house, O Lord (Psalm 84) or Psalm 128. Second Reading — See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God (1 John 3:1-2, 21-24) or Colossians 3:12-21 [12-17]. Gospel — The boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. They found him in the temple, in the midst of the teachers (Luke 2:41-52). The English translation of the Psalm Responses from the Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved. Readings for the Week

Mon: 1 Jn 2:18-21; Ps 96:1-2, 11-13; Jn 1:1-18 Tues: Nm 6:22-27; Ps 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8; Gal 4:4-7; Lk 2:16-21 Wed: 1 Jn 2:22-28; Ps 98:1-4; Jn 1:19-28 Thurs: 1 Jn 2:29 — 3:6; Ps 98:1, 3cd-6; Jn 1:29-34 Fri: 1 Jn 3:7-10; Ps 98:1, 7-9; Jn 1:35-42 Sat: 1 Jn 3:11-21; Ps 100:1b-5; Jn 1:43-51 Sun: Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13; Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6; Mt 2:1-12

Make Year End Donations Before January 1 Parish families are reminded that December 31 this year is on a Monday. All donations to St. Thomas must be received in the collection bas-ket by Sunday, December 30, 2012, in order to be acknowledged as tax-deductible for the cur-rent year. The Internal Revenue Service does not allow us to accept back-dated checks after December 31 as Year 2011 donations. The effective date of the gift is the date on which the donation is RECEIVED at St. Thomas, or the date on which it is postmarked by the postal service. So, for your donation to be counted, please mail early enough or drop your gift into the collection bas-ket on or before December 30. If you expect you may be out of town you may want to consider bringing your final Year 2012 donation to the general office during the week of December 24-28. Thanks for your understanding that we must comply with IRS regulations.

Christmas 2012, Page 14

Administration Commission St. Thomas the Apostle Jobs Ministry The Jobs Ministry at St Thomas is a faith-based ministry designed to assist the unemployed Job Seek-ers to find meaningful employment. The Jobs Minis-try does not necessarily guarantee the Job Seekers a job but provides the tools to finding employment. If you would like to join Jobs Ministry at St. Tho-mas, just attend one of the regular meetings and sign up with your name and email address to receive an invitation to join St. Thomas Jobs Ministry Yahoo Groups. JOBS MINISTRY ACTIVITIES

Jobs Ministry Weekly meetings each Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. except the morning after the Wednesday evening Monthly Meetings.

Jobs Ministry Monthly Meeting Dates:

Jan 4, 11, 18, 23* Feb 1, 8, 15, 21*** Mar 1, 8, 15, 21*** Apr 5, 12, 19, 24* May 3, 10, 17, 22* Jun 7, 21, 26* Six Sigma Training each Fall and Winter Resume Reviews * Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. ** Thursday at 9:30 a.m. *** Thursday at 7:00 p.m. All other dates on Friday at 9:30 a.m.

THE WEEK AHEAD... Monday, Dec. 31—Offices Closed 4:30 pm Mass, Church Tuesday, Jan. 1—Offices Closed 9:00am Mass, Church 11:00 am Mass, Church Wednesday, Jan. 2 3:45—5:00 p.m. Stay, Pray and Play, Gym 7:00—9:30 p.m. Coed Volleyball, Gym 7:00—9:30 p.m. Sojourners Rehearsal, Church 7:00—9:00 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul, Senior Center Thursday, Jan. 3 6:00—7:00 p.m. Journey Praise, Church 7:00—9:30 p.m. Genesis Rehearsal, Church Friday, Jan. 4 9:15am-12:00 p.m. Jobs Ministry, Gym Saturday, Jan. 5 8:30—11:00 a.m. Ensemble Rehearsal, Lighthouse 9:00—10:30 a.m. Men’s Saturday Sharing, Resource Center 10:00—12:00 p.m. Wedding Music Workshop, Church 10:15—11:15 a.m. Rainbows, Ministry Center 5:30—6:00 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening, Deacon’s Office Sunday, Jan. 6 9:00am-1:00 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening, Deacon’s Office 9:30am-12:00 p.m. Liturgy of the Word with Children, Ministry Center 12:30—1:30 p.m. Confirmation Class, Emmaus & Galilee 5:30—8:00 p.m. RCIA, Senior Center

St. Thomas Jobs Ministry Thank You The letter below was written to Father Don by a parishioner who made good use of our Jobs Ministry I had been out of work since January 1, 2012. I relocated from Houston to Naperville on January 15 and attended my first Mass that night at St. Thomas the Apostle....I joined the parish within a few months. God has guided me to a new job, and I will be starting to work with Honeywell Aerospace on January 2, 2013 in Phoe-nix, Arizona. I wanted to let you know about my landing and let you know that I feel deeply blessed to be a member of St. Thomas the Apostle. The parish community has been so welcoming and I've met such wonderful people, especially at the weekday morning Mass. I also wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the Saint Thomas the Apostle Jobs Ministry. The overall program, the speakers and the volunteers always gave me a reason for hope. May God continue to bless them and you for the Wondrous compassion and respect shown to all the Jobs Ministry participants. I will keep you and my St. Thomas the Apostle family in my prayers.

Dr. Bill andDr. Sonia Buchar(630) 820-1330

3015 E. New York St.Suite A-11

Aurora, IL 60504www.bucharfamilychiro.com

NOTRE DAME FAMILY CTR.Rev. James Watzke, Ph.D.

Depression - Anxiety - StressFamily - Separation - Divorce

Sub. Abuse - Medicare - EspañolOakbrook Terr. (630) 691-1114

Call Frank Tucker312.502.6212

www.jspaluch.com

Advertising herehelps your parish& your business.

The Sponsors Who Appear On This Bulletin.It Is Through Their Support That This Bulletin Is Made Possible.

Business Owners Interested In Advertising Please CallJ.S. Paluch at 1-800-621-5197

512069 St Thomas the Apostle Church (B)

Thank you for advertising inour church bulletin.

I am patronizing your businessbecause of it!

Please Cut Out This “Thank You Ad”and Present It The Next Time YouPatronize One of Our Advertisers

✂

www.jspaluch.com For Ads: J.S. Paluch Co., Inc. 1-800-566-6170

Funeral Home, Pre-planning and Cremation Services44 S. Mill Street • Naperville, IL 60540 • 355-0213

www.friedrich-jones.com

Dave Jones, Parishioner

Stephanie Jones-Kastelic, CPA

Ray Jones

The Confident Choice Quality, affordable in-homecare for adults:• Non-medical• Companion Care• Personal Care

www.firstlighthomecare.com

13550 S. Route 30, Suite B102, Plainfield, IL

815.676.6969EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE. EXCEPTIONAL CARE

Esser Hayes Insurance Group Inc.Insurance is Our Only

Business Since 1939 WithExcellent Companies &

Competitive Rates1811 High Grove • 355-2077

Cleaning • Sales • Service

630-961-1312

633 N. Washington

Naperville

www.RMCarpets.com

At the Name of JesusTThhee WWaayy,, TThhee TTrruutthh,, TThhee LLiiffee

Art by Brother Michael O’Neill McGrath, OSFSPrayers by Father Richard N. Fragomeni

Hardcover book $$3399..9955800-566-6150World Library Publicationsthe music and liturgy division of J.S. Paluch Co., Inc.www.wlpmusic.com

Business Slow?Advertise In This Bulletin!

Businesses that advertisedthroughout a recession...grew 256%

more than the businessesthat chose not to advertise.

—MCGRAW HILL LABORATORY OF ADVERTISING PERFORMANCE

Call 1-800-621-5197 ex 2704 today for a FREE ad design.

Parishioner Discount10% OFF W/Ad

• Christening Gowns • Baby Gifts• Hair Accessories • Birthday Parties

630-946-6420 Parishioner175 W. Jackson, Ste. 135

Naperville, IL 60540www.bowsandbabes.com

PHIL WALZPLUMBING. INC.

Specialists InBath Remodeling

Established 1967

1340 W. Ogden, Naperville(630) 355-0080 Lic# 058-062118

™

Aurora Central Catholic High SchoolA National School of Excellence

630-907-0095 AuroraCentral.com

Located near I-88 1255 N. Edgelawn • AuroraDuanne

897-1538Aurora

Doug369-1835Naperville

MMaasstteerrCCoonnttrraaccttoorr

Siding ■■ Windows ■■ Doors & More

Look for our RED trucks in your neighborhood!

WWiitthh HHeeaarrttss aanndd VVooiicceessSSoonnggss aanndd PPrraayyeerrss ooff aa FFaaiitthhffuull PPeeooppllee

More than 80 traditional Catholic songs and prayersfamiliar to our moms and dads.

Large print for older eyes.Book ($3), Four-CD Music set ($49.95), Spoken Prayers CD ($17.00)

800-566-6150World Library Publicationsthe music and liturgy division of J.S. Paluch Co., Inc.www.wlpmusic.com

“Parishioner”

SportsNutritionConsulting

Sports Nutrition &Treatment of Eating DisordersKatie Davis MS, RD, CSSD, LDN

Cell: 989.906.2459475 River Bend Rd., #200A,

Napervillewww.RDKate.com

HAMMANLANDSCAPE SUPPLY

Mulch • Firewood • Top Soil

630-898-52667 S. 343 N. Eola Rd.

Aurora, IL 60502www.hammanlandscapesupply.com

10% OFF or Free Deliveryof Unilock Products

512069 St Thomas the Apostle Church (A)

Good Shepherd Heating, CoolingResidential • Commercial

Sales, Service, InstallationDuct Cleaning Available

24 Hr.FREE SERVICE CALL 630-362-4075

VOEGTLE’SAAuuttoo SSeerrvviiccee

28 W. 224 WARRENVILLE RD.WARRENVILLE, IL 60555COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR

SINCE 1975

CHARLES VOEGTLEJOE VOEGTLE

393-1436Consider RememberingYour Parish in Your Will.

For further information, please call the Parish Office.

FREESPA PARTY

Pamper yourself and your friends!10% of all sales willbe donated to HaitiArbonne Consultant

Megan Hofbauer-Parishioner

630-362-6045www.meganhofbauer.myarbonne.com

Perceptive Reflections on God’s Beauty

Defining BeautyDanielle RoseCD $17Thought-provoking Contemporary Music

800-566-6150World Library Publicationsthe music and liturgy division of J.S. Paluch Co., Inc. www.wlpmusic.com

www.jspaluch.com For Ads: J.S. Paluch Co., Inc. 1-800-566-6170

Dr. Paul RickardMeadow Lake Dental Care

3941 W. 75th StreetAurora Illinois 60504

(630) 851-5130

IFC Tax (630) 961-3300Accounting Work, 401K Audit,

IRS Audit & Notices

www.ifctaxprep.com

LASIK, Cataract,Glaucoma, Macular

Degeneration,Diabetic & Retina Exams

Naperville office call(630) 355-6222.

Elmhurst office call(630) 833-9621.

www.Kovacheye.comALL MAJOR INSURANCES ACCEPTED

Kovach Eye Institute

Kevin J. Kovach, M.D.

Everything Homemade FreshDaily Specials

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner630-836-9999

Mon., Tues. – 6:00 AM to 3:00 PMWed. through Saturday

6:00 AM to 9:00 PMSundays 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM

4s040 Rt. 59, Naperville

• 20% OFF Sunday OnlyOff Your Bill or Donated

to St. Thomas• Preferred Card

10% OFF Mon.-Sat.or Donated to Church

• 10% OFF Catering orDonated to Church

WE DELIVER

AND CATER

ED THE PLUMBERED THE CARPENTER

Best Work • Best Rate

Satisfaction Guaranteed As

We Do All Our Own Work

Lic# 055-026066

Parishioner Discount

630-663-1444

HEATING ◆ COOLING

(630) 668-5885 24 HOUR SERVICE

NAPERVILLE FOOT CLINICIn step with your foot care needs

Dr. Patricia M. O’Donnell, Podiatric Physician & Surgeon

(630) 961-53001279 S. Naper Blvd. • Naperville

PEGGY BOLGER, GRITOP 1% OF REALTORS NATIONWIDE

PARISHIONERCELL: 630-542-2272

Find all homes for sale at www.homesbybolger.com

405 North EolaAurora (630) 499-1500

SUNDAY HOLIDAY SPECIAL$3 OFF $15 or more$5 OFF $25 or more

* Limited Time Only *Please show coupon

B & L Auto Body Inc.Free EstimatesInsurance Work

Expert RefinishingComplete Collision Repair

1340 W. Ogden Ave.Naperville

Bob PaladinoLarry Frank355-0865

Medical & Non-MedicalHomecare for Seniors

& Children

Oak Brook Naperville630.571.5555 630-778-2005

Dave OttoOwner - Parishioner

The UPS Store #6169(NW Corner - Kirk & Butterfield)

2948 Kirk Road - Ste 106Aurora, IL 60502Tel: 630.989.4300

store6169@theupsstore.comwww.6169.us

Naper AutoWorks

Your One Stop ShopSince 1977

320 N. Mill St.Naperville, IL 60540

(630) 420-2886

Siding • Trim • Gutters

Windows • Doors

Storm • Hail Insurance Work

(630) 665-1849

$10.00 off w/Ad

D-S Exteriors, Inc.

Member of the Chamber of Commerce and B.B.B.

Beidelman – KunschFUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY

Family Owned and Operated Since 1861

John W., John L. & Joseph O.Kunsch, Directors

516 S. Washington St.(Downtown Chapel)

1-630-355-0264

-OR-

24021 W. Royal Worlington Dr.(Rt. 59 Chapel)1-630-922-9630

Funeral and Cremation Services

www.beidelmankunschfh.com

Brennan & Brosnan, L.L.C.Certified Public Accountants

Margaret M. Brennan, C.P.A.Betsy K. Brosnan, C.P.A.

–Parishioner–1776 Legacy Circle, Ste. 118 577-9074