first sunday of advent - stm-church.com · 11/29/2015 · sunday, november 29 — first sunday of...
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St. Peter and St. Paul Church in Oberammergau, Germany
First Sunday of Advent
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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, KCHS; Ext. 312 [email protected] Associate Pastor ............................... Reverend Ted J. Mauch; Ext. 314 [email protected] Senior Deacon............................................ Dr. Napoleon Tabion, OFS Deacons ................................................................ David Kapala, KHS ............................................................................ Joseph Stodola, KHS ......................................................................... Daniel Zurawski, KHS Director of Finance ........................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Pastoral Care Coordinator ......... Deacon David Kapala, KHS; Ext. 313 Director of Music ......................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 338 Director of Religious Education .................... Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Director of Development ................................ Amanda King; Ext. 342
Parish Office Staff Hours: Mon-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 ..................................................... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Daytime Receptionist ........................................ Susan Strain; Ext. 310 Evening Receptionist .................................... Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310 Building Maintenance……………………...Mike Popovich 836-8610
Pastoral Ministries Environment & Art ............................................. Jean Bados 836-8610 Eucharistic Ministers ........................ Deacon Dan Zurawski 742-6005 Hospitality/Greeters ................................... Chris Shearman 923-1419 Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459 Nursery .................................................. Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079 St. Vincent de Paul ................................. Michael Martinelli 836-8610 Vocations Committee ...................................... Mary Kochis 322-7262
2014-2015 Pastoral Council Members Leslie Dernulc.................................................................. Joe Dubczak Wendy Jasinski ...........................................................Nancy Klawitter Christi Kordeck ................................... Michael Korfiatis, Chairperson Jim Landowski ......................................................... Jesse Montenegro Joe O’Brien .................................................................... Kurt Popovich Cheryl Staniszewski.................................................. Cindy Thompson
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 President ........................................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Principal ............................................................... Jay Harker; Ext. 328 Assistant Principal ......................................... Cynthia Block; Ext. 328 School Administrative Assistant……….. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328 School Reception & Office Associate………. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329 Home & School Association .................. Kris Miller; (312) 909-8156 Parish & School Offices Associate .............. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311 School Admissions .............................................. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309
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: Monday, Tuesday & Friday — 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday & Thursday — 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Religious Education Phone ........................................................... 836-8610 Director .................................................................. Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Administrative Assistant ..................................... Carolyn McGill; Ext. 336 Grades K through 8 ~ Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.
Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education ............................................................ Barbara Topete Parish Life ......................................................................... Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice .............................................................. Mary Silvasi Spirituality & Worship ....................................................... Kaaren Mashura Stewardship ........................................................................... Noreen Bickel
Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society .................................... Kathleen Pagorek 972-0539 Blue Army ................................................... Rose Marie Malburg 836-8779 Boy Scouts ................................................................ Curt Anglin 902-5126 Career Networking Group…………………… Christine Spencer 836-8610 Circle of Prayer………………………………..Mary Jo Humpfer 836-5002 Cub Scouts ............................................................. Alan Pischner 306-7552 Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Gabriel Project……………………………… Carolyn Grskovich 455-9258 Garden Club ............................................................ Paul Mazerik 644-8409 Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544 Girl Scouts ............................................................. Renee Whelan 796-6809 Holy Name Society ....................................................................... 836-8610 Knights of Columbus ............................. Brad Hemingway (708) 951-5492 K of C Columbian Squires……………...Brad Hemingway (708) 951-5492 Moms’ Group ................................................................................ 836-8610 Oblates……………………………………………...Denise Gard 836-9115 Respect Life .................................................................................. 836-8610 Senior Citizens ........................................................... Herb Cleve 670-2982 The Travelers Club…………………………………..Lois Quinn 836-7902 Ushers Club ..................................................... ….Jim Marmalejo 836-1463 Venture Crew……………………………………....Fr. Ben Ross 322-4505
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 attending 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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First Sunday of Advent November 29, 2015
Saturday, December 5 5:30 p.m. Fr. Ted Mauch
Sunday, December 6 6:30 a.m. Fr. Ted Mauch 8:00 a.m. Fr. Ted Mauch 10:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 12:00 Noon Fr. Mike Yadron
SUNDAY, November 29 — First Sunday of Advent 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Chester & Elizabeth Ross by Jim & Carol Zaczyk 10:00 am Deceased Members of the Andrzejewski & Picicci Families 12:00 pm George Krajci by Tim Krajci
MONDAY, November 30 — St. Andrew 6:30 am Ray Wolak by Phyllis Krizmanic 8:30 am Geraldine Lesko by Carole Gamaleri
TUESDAY, December 1 6:30 am Raymond Mueller (Ann.) by Family 8:30 am Joan C. Companik by Bill & Dorothy O’Brien 10:00 am Joseph T. Adams by STM Holy Name Society (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 1)
WEDNESDAY, December 2 6:30 am Antonio Porras Sr. (Ann.) by Sylvester & Kathy Porras 8:30 am Ron Teutemacher by Joan Reck
THURSDAY, December 3 — St. Francis Xavier 6:30 am Josephine M. Wleklinski by Joann M. Wleklinski 9:00 am Antoni Rajkowski by Family
FRIDAY, December 4 — First Friday 6:30 am Olivia Perez de Alba by Sanchez Family 8:30 am Shirley O’Donnell by Jim & Jean Schreiner
SATURDAY, December 5 — First Saturday 8:30 am Eugene J. Szczepaniak (Ann.) by Family 5:30 pm Stephen Maicher by Daughters
SUNDAY, December 6 — Second Sunday of Advent 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Paul Graegin by Yvette Noe 10:00 am Gene Sepaniak by Family 12:00 pm Dorothy Purcell by Husband James F. Purcell
SATURDAY, December5 8:30 am A. Forszt, Matt Hrinda 5:30 pm M. Queroz, G. & I. Scalzo, B. & M. Andrzejewski/MC ~ Nick
SUNDAY, December 6 6:30 am S. Hamill, A. Klaich, E. Miller 8:00 am J. Cipowski, E. Gossman, G. Kenning, A. Nahnsen, B. Peters/ MC ~ Matt 10:00 am J. Hunt, O. Lerma, M. & R. Maldonado, S. O’Rourke/MC ~ Joey 12:00 pm E. Long, G. & T. O’Brien/MC ~ Elizabeth B.
Pastoral Care Ministry Sick, Homebound & Hospitalized
Please notify the Pastoral Care Ministry to arrange a visit by Pastoral Care for a hospitalized or homebound friend or relative
by contacting Deacon Dave Kapala, Pastoral Care Coordinator at (219) 836-8610, ext. 313
Bulletin Articles The holiday season is upon us and printing deadlines are fast
approaching. To insure that your information is in the appropriate bulletin, please submit articles at least 2 weeks in advance to
[email protected]. Thank you for your help!
December Nursery Schedule
Sunday, December 6 Ann Harkenrider
Katherine Pala & Laci Pala
Sunday, December 13 Kim Cipowski
Lisa Jorsch
Sunday, December 20 Michelle Wendlinger
Susie Kinsella
Friday, December 25 Merry Christmas!
Nursery Closed
Sunday, December 27 Jill Bochenek
Kaaren Mashura
Located in the Bride’s Room at the
Sunday 10:00 am Mass. Contact Kaaren Mashura
at (219) 836-5079 or [email protected] to
volunteer.
Campaign for Human Development Thank you for your contributions to the collection for the
Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD)! Your generous gifts will help CCHD end poverty in the United States
through better education, improved housing and economic development. Through CCHD and its beneficiaries, we
demonstrate Catholic social teaching and carry out Jesus’ mission to “bring glad tidings to the poor . . . to proclaim liberty to
captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free” (Lk 4:18).
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lease pray for the sick of our parish... c Joshua Alvarez
Margaret Amatulli Frieda Andersen
Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio
Antonio Belmonte Michael Berry
Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka Michael Boston Cheryl Bostrom
Robert Boyle Linda Braun
Stephany Burney Paul Burns
Dorothy Campbell James Campbell
Thomas Cak Al Carollo
Carol Carollo Janet Cattanach
Jacqueline Morrow Christian
Frank Coman James Coppolillo Vincent Corsello
Mike Curtain Margaret Demkovich
Lucille Detterline Irene Dettmer Ann DeVoy
MaryPat Devoy Jeanine Doescher
Jim D’Orazio Alex Eiland
Tom Engwert Sherlon Evans
John Forde Phyllis Garber Denise Gard
Andrea Garritano Margaret Geary
Dorothy Giannini Emily Gibson
Dorothy Gillespie Shirley Gillespie Margaret Good
Howard Gralewski Margaret Gray
Susan Graff James Grunewald
Amy Hayes Eleanore Heggi Marie Henke
Evelyn Hennes Marisol Hernandez
Becky Hill Joan Hoess
Megan Homcho Mary Jo Humpfer Betty Ingbretson
Steve Izzo Dennis Jablonski Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack
Rosemary Jerzak Carol Keilman
James Klein, Sr. Janet Knight
Susan Kolodziej Miller Krizmanic Annika LeMonier Chris LeMonier
Debbie LeMonier Nicklas LeMonier
Mary Leahy Jo Lisiniewicz
Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz
Maria Lovell Marilyn Madsen Charlene Madura Mary Manchak Brady Martin
Jenny Mendoza Faye Meny Sandi Merlo Olga Mihalo
Ann Miskovich Andrew Moll Elissa Moll David Moll Jean Narvid
Donna Nichols Steven Nowaczyk
Clare O’Brien Valerie O’Donnell
Danny Ogren Emily Orosco
Maryann Pancheri James Pancheri Marty Pavovic
Johanna Petruch Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones Sylvester Porras Timothy Ribble
Jackie Roach Kristen Rubin Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz
Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz
Zachery Scriff James Secviar
Jim Seul Renee Shehan Nick Skinner
Lydia Skorupa Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Georgianne Suto
Celine Szczepaniak Florence Stevens Carrie Szumelda
Barbara Szypczak Rose Theis
Gerardo Trevino Kathie Trudgian Anthony Ubuane
Tony Vanden Heuvel Raymond Vanderbok
Julia Vrbanich Adele Wall
Charlotte Weglewski Stephanie Wisniewski
Don Woszczynski Cecilia Ziegler
Cody Ziemkowski
SUNDAY, November 29 — First Sunday of Advent 6:00 pm Advent Prayer Service ~ Church St. Vincent de Paul Food Collection at All Masses
MONDAY, November 30 7:00 pm Schola Choir ~ Church 7:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel
TUESDAY, December 1 8:30 am All School Mass of the Toys 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 pm) 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel 7:00 pm RCIA ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm STMS Christmas Program (K- 3rd) ~ Gym
WEDNESDAY, December 2 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 4:30 pm Religious Formation Classes (until 6:00 pm) 5:00 pm RCIC ~ Teachers’ Lounge 6:00 pm Handbells ~ Church
THURSDAY, December 3 4:30 pm Religious Formation Classes (until 6:00 pm) 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church
FRIDAY, December 4 9:00 am Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Conference Room 6:00 pm STMS Pizza with Santa ~ Gym
SATURDAY, December 5 8:00 am First Saturday Rosary ~ Church 9:00 am –3:00 pm—Santa’s Secret Shop in the Solar Room 7:00 pm STMS Junior High Dance
SUNDAY, December 6 — Second Sunday of Advent 6:00 pm Advent Prayer Service ~ Church
First Sunday of Advent "But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your
heads because your redemption is at hand." Jesus instructs his disciples to take this posture of confidence in the midst of a terribly
disturbing situation. Describing his second coming, Jesus says that on seeing this event unfold, "People will die of fright." And yet the
disciples are supposed to be pillars of strength. While others cower in fear, the Lord's followers are somehow immune, with heads raised
high. Why? Well, presumably, because those who follow Christ--those who earn the distinction of being disciples--have nothing to fear. On
the contrary, when they have to "stand before the Son of Man," it will be a happy occasion. But here's the catch: "disciple" is more than an
empty title. If we want to be counted among this confident crew, there are a few things for us to do. Today's Gospel spells out these tasks,
which are all perfect things to pursue during Advent. First, we have to make sure that our "hearts do not become drowsy."
We are called to stay awake in a spiritual sense, not allowing "carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life" to numb us.
We need to avoid whatever might reduce our ability to recognize and relate to Jesus, because we don't want his appearance to catch us "by surprise like a trap." Advent is an ideal time to examine our lives to
determine what activities, priorities, or pastimes might be putting our hearts to sleep. Secondly, we need to pray. We need to ask Jesus
himself for "the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man." We can't do it alone. But with
Christ's help, we can be true, fearless disciples.
Readings for Week of November 29 Sunday: Jer 33:14-16/Ps 25:4-5, 8-10, 14/1 Thes 3:12--4:2/ Lk 21:25-28, 34-36 Monday: Rom 10:9-18/Ps 19:8-11/Mt 4:18-22 Tuesday: Is 11:1-10/Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17/Lk 10:21-24 Wednesday: Is 25:6-10a/Ps 23:1-6/Mt 15:29-37 Thursday: Is 26:1-6/Ps 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27/Mt 7:21, 24-27 Friday: Is 29:17-24/Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14/Mt 9:27-31 Saturday: Is 30:19-21, 23-26/Ps 147:1-6/Mt 9:35--10:1, 5a, 6-8 Next Sunday: Bar 5:1-9/Ps 126:1-6/Phil 1:4-6, 8-11/Lk 3:1-6
Eucharistic Ministers Needed If you are interested in assisting your parish
by serving at God’s table consider becoming a St. Thomas More Eucharistic
Minister. To learn more, please contact
Deacon Dan Zurawski at (219) 742-6005 or email: [email protected].
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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:
December 1: Rev. Wilfred P. Mannion (1959) Rev. Francis M. Lazar (2007) December 3: Msgr. Leo P. Hildebrandt (1979) Rev. Chester P. Zurawiec (1993) December 4: Rev. Anthony J. Suelzer (1995) Msgr. Ralph Hoffman (2000)
ON THE LIGHTER SIDE A rookie police officer was assigned to a cruiser with an experienced partner. A call came over the car’s radio telling them to disperse some people who were loitering. The rookie drove to the street and observed a small crowd standing on a corner. The new officer looked at his partner and then rolled down his window and said, “Let’s get off this corner.” No one moved. So, he shouted to the group, “Let’s get off this corner!” Intimidated, the people began to leave, casting puzzled glances in his direction. Proud of his first official act, the young policeman turned to his partner and asked, “Well, how did I do?” “Pretty good,” replied the veteran, “especially since this is a bus stop.”
THE ADVENT WREATH To mark the passing of the weeks, it has been traditional to make an Advent Wreath. Today, and each day this week, light one purple candle on the wreath and pray: Loving Father, we await the coming of your Son, Jesus. Help us to use the holy season wisely so that we will be prepared for the day of His return. This we ask through our Lord, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen After lighting the candle, sing a verse of this popular Advent hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel. That mourns in lonely exile here, until the Son of God appear. Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.
WE BEGIN ANEW
“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Lk 21:34-36)
For the past few weeks, we have been reflecting upon the end of time. We have been warned that the Son of Man would come like a thief in the night and that we needed to be ready so that we would not be caught unaware. Those readings were being given to us because we were approaching the end of the liturgical year.
This weekend, we begin anew. The First Sunday of Advent heralds a new year, a new hope, a new promise, and a new opportunity. However, the new year begins as our old year ended: “Beware”.
We often become so focused upon ourselves that we fail to see the bigger picture. We turn our thoughts inwards and, in the process, miss the people all around us. We fail to see the plight of the poor, the pain of the suffering and sorrowing, and the emptiness of the lonely. We even fail to see the needs of our own loved ones when we focus too closely upon ourselves.
Today gives us the opportunity to change. In remaining vigilant, we will see the needs of others and be able to provide for them.
As we do at the beginning of a new calendar, we are invited this weekend to make spiritual resolutions so that this new liturgical year may be one of profound growth.
Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has declared a Year of Mercy. Perhaps our first resolution could be to embrace the mercy of God completely. Seek His mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Give His mercy to those who have hurt you. Be merciful as He is merciful. Doing so will practically guarantee that we will never be caught unaware.
FAITH ACTION: Is there someone in your life who could use some mercy? Make a true effort to forgive.
TAIZÉ PRAYER You are invited to come to the church at 6:00 p.m. this evening for Taizé Prayer. This peaceful, contemplative prayer helps one to calm the soul so that we may better hear the Lord when He speaks to us.
Religious Education
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December Schedule 2/3 Class 7 Confirmation Retreat—All 8th Grade Students 8:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the STM Gym 9/10 Class 16/17 Class 23/24 No Class — Christmas Break 30/31 No Class — Happy New Year!
January Schedule 6/7 Class 13/14 Class 20/21 Class 27/28 Class
St. Vincent DePaul Society The Christmas season is upon us and we all look forward to the
joy that this season brings. As we look
around, let us reflect on the many gifts that
God has given us. Please consider
sharing your gifts with us, the
St. Vincent de Paul Society, as we prepare
to provide food for others during this holiday season.
Any contributions you make are appreciated!
Pumpkin Cranberries
Boxed Stuffing Mix
Boxed Potatoes
Rice Meal Helpers
Macaroni & Cheese Canned Meat Canned Fish
Soup Toilet Paper
Bar Soap Liquid Dish Soap
Shampoo
We are currently in need of the following items:
Thanks for your ongoing generosity!
Lectors for the Week
Saturday, December 5 5:30 pm Mass
Jennifer Feddeler & Jay Gianotti
Sunday, December 6 6:30 am Mass
John Brooks & Robert Hill
8:00 am Mass Don Dulkoski & Jim Kaspar
10:00 am Mass Julie Javorka & Jesse Montenegro
12:00 Noon Mass Bernadine Barrett & Marilyn Pajor
Saturday, December 5 5:30 pm Mass
Main: Bill & Chris Retseck Chapel: Don & Carol
Kopenec Choir: Ed Lebryk &
Judy Millspaugh
Sunday, December 6 6:30 am Mass
Main: Leilani Suchanuk Chapel: Tom & Linda Brady
8:00 am Mass Main: Dennis & Karen McNeil
Chapel: Art & Mary Halpin Choir: Rosemary Barker
10:00 am Mass Main: Jose & Paula Serrano
Chapel: Miller Family Choir: Joe Arent
12:00 Noon Mass Chapel: Dominique Mercier
Greeters for the Week
1D2G Youth Ministry Join us this December when we visit the
residents of Munster Med-Inn for Christmas Caroling — Sunday, December 13th 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Med-Inn, 7935 Calumet in Munster.
Please RSVP for this event. We invite all 8th graders to join us!
Earn valuable service project hours for Confirmation. To learn more or to RSVP, please email
Miss Emily Hackett at [email protected] .
Catholic Charities Counseling Catholic Charities offers counseling services to
individuals, families and children on a sliding fee scale. For more information please call
(219) 844-4883.
Vocations Committee How can we build a better world?
What can we do to diminish the violence, prejudice, discrimination & substance abuse, etc. and help people to live
Christian lives, have a deep love for Christ, the Church and the poor? Let us change this crisis today affecting Catholic life and bring joy, reconciliation and hope.
You Did It For Me Laurie* never imagined she’d be homeless but after being laid
off her life turned upside down. After she entered an emergency shelter program, she says, “I cried for four days.”
But she never lost hope, and thanks to the compassion and dignity she felt from her local Catholic Charities, she was able
to get back on her feet and into her own home. “If you’re willing to help yourself, they will help you.” In 2014, Catholic Charities agencies across the country provided housing
services to more than 524,000 people in need. To learn more, visit
www.CatholicCharitiesUSA.org
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St. Thomas More School November 29, 2015
St. Thomas More School’s
A feast for the eyes; a treat for the ears!
Another outstanding St. Thomas More School musical production ended Sunday night as 175 students brought the story of Disney’s
The Lion King, Jr. to life. Our talented group of participants graced the
stage as actors and chorus, worked backstage in make-up, costuming and props, operated the lights and sound boards and served as “house” crew, in addition to a myriad of other jobs, to make this
another unforgettable student musical. Our deepest appreciation to the many parents and alumni who helped from building sets to sewing costumes to feeding our hungry cast and crew.
We could not have done this without you! And, or course, great thanks to our extremely
talented, creative and hard-working directors, Angie Lorandos, Kristyn Estes, Laura Javorka,
Jennifer Lundin and Pat Fointno. We can’t wait to see what you come up with
for next year! Bravo everyone! Find more photos of the musical on the
St. Thomas More Church & School Facebook page.
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Senior Citizens Any senior citizen in our parish who is interested in being a part
of our fun and energetic group is encouraged to attend one of our upcoming meetings.
Meetings are held at 1:00 p.m. in the Kish Community Room, 10000 Calumet Avenue in Munster, unless otherwise noted.
Travelers Club
Christmas Shopping Trip on December 10th
Making stops at the Aurora Outlet Mall in Aurora, IL and Little Travelers in Geneva, IL
Bus leaves 8:30 a.m. • Arrives home 5:00 p.m. Only $24 per person
Who can resist a Christmas shopping trip? Join us as we travel to Illinois to get the best Christmas shopping
deals at some great shopping venues! The Outlet Mall is a great
place to find great selection and good prices. Little
Travelers is a home beautifully decorated for Christmas, offering many
small rooms inside the home where they display
interesting and very unusual gifts; a true
“Winter Wonderland”. What an opportunity this will be for us to find “just
the right gifts” for the special people on our
Christmas lists. The cost of the trip includes, transportation and gratuities.
Lunch will be on your own and you may have lunch inside Little Travelers or lunch in one of the many restaurants nearby.
Please sign up at the STM parish office as soon as possible, mark your calendars for December 10th and join us for a day of
merriment. Remember, we always park in the north parking lot.
Help Others This Christmas Giving Tree at St. Thomas More
The Lucky Clovers 4-H Club of St. Thomas More is sponsoring a Giving Tree at our parish. Helping is as easy as 1-2-3.
We have received the names of 75 people through Catholic Charities who are in need of gifts this Christmas. These may be the only gifts that they receive. If you would like to help make
Christmas a little brighter for someone in need: 1. Take an ornament from our tree on November 29th
You can find the tree in the choir entrance vestibule. 2. Purchase one of the gifts requested.
3. Return your wrapped gift by December 13th Attach the ornament to your wrapped gift and place it in a
designated box near the choir entrance. Your generosity will brighten someone’s life this holiday season.
Wednesday, December 9th Christmas Luncheon
12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. at Teibel’s Restaurant. Advance reservations required.
(please make payment with your reservation) Cost: Lake Perch Dinner- $20/person
Chicken or Beef Tips- $15/person
STM Career Networking Group
Where: STM Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN
When: The 3rd Thursday of Every Month Time: 7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m. Email: [email protected]
Regular Meetings are Free! Open to All! For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job
market, employed but changing careers or those who can offer employment opportunities through their current professional
connections. Have your cover letter, resume or thank you note critiqued by a professional.
Thursday, December 17, 2015 7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.
80% of Jobs are Unadvertised 82% of Jobs are found through Networking
15% Found through Search Firms • 10% Found through Want Ads 4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send Resumes
Worldwide Marriage Encounter Let us all be thankful for the gift of our vocation. Learn how to enrich your vocation of Marriage by attending an enrichment
made just for you. Upcoming Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekends take place in Elk Grove Village, IL on these dates:
December 11-13 or February 12-14 or April 8-10. Early registration recommended. Call Jim & Kris at 630-577-0778 or
contact us through http://wwme-chicagoland.org .
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Respect Life Corner
Upcoming Election On December 14, at our General Membership Meeting, an
election will be held for three Board member positions replacing those whose terms have expired. Nominations are currently being accepted and need to be submitted to the Lake County
Right to Life office before Monday, December 14. Nomination must first be approved by nominee. Only members who have paid their dues are eligible to vote. Annual dues are $10.00 and
may be paid to the LCRTL office.
Middle School Oratory Contest Middle school students are encouraged to participate in our
annual Middle School Oratory Contest. Saturday, December 12th—1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Lake Public Library-Highland Branch • 2841 Jewett Street
Caps for Kids The Northwest Indiana Catholic newspaper is accepting
donations of new or handmade winter caps, gloves, mittens, and scarves for its 18th annual Caps for Kids campaign. These
donations are sorted and distributed to area needy by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, social service agencies and other groups.
Monetary donations also help in the purchase of these items.
Donations are being accepted until December 18th. at the Pastoral Center, 9292 Broadway in Merrillville.
Contact (769) 9292 x249 or [email protected] for details.
We are getting closer to our goal, thanks to our generous parishioners, but we can’t complete our campaign without your continued assistance. By returning your Pledge Card as soon as
possible, you keep our campaign moving forward. Pledge cards can be mailed, turned in to the Parish Office or
placed in the Sunday collection basket. Thank you, as always, for your generous support of this
important parish project. Our church and school depend on it!
Altar & Rosary Society Pot Luck Dinner
Wednesday, December 9th in the Solar Room Meeting starts at 6:45 p.m. with the Rosary.
All women attending are asked to bring their favorite main dish or vegetable.
Altar & Rosary will provide the desserts. Speaker: Officer Jim Ghrist
Officer Ghrist of the Munster Police Department will be giving us a presentation
on staying safe from scams, credit card & identity theft around the holidays.
Door prizes after the presentation. Please bring new children’s hats, scarves & gloves.
Knights of Columbus 5th Sunday Rosary Service
Join the Knights of Columbus Msgr. Weis Council Today, Sunday, November 29th in the Chapel
after the 12:00 Noon Mass. All members of our parish are invited.
Finger Rosaries will be available. Take a few minutes for yourself during the busy and joyous
holiday season. For more information, please contact Brad Hemingway at (708) 951-5492.
Join the Knights of Columbus If you are interested in joining the Knights of Columbus,
please contact Brad Hemingway at (708) 951-5492.
Wreath Stands & Tree Stands —$10. We have proudly kept the same prices since 2002.
Make checks payable to: Knights of Columbus
Thank you for your support.
Scotch Pine 6 to 7 Feet $25
Douglas Fir Tree 6, 7 or 8 Feet $40
Frasier Fir Tree 6 to 7 Feet $55
Frasier Fir Tree 7 to 8 Feet $65
Frasier Fir Tree 9 to 10 Feet $100
Frasier Fir Tree 10 to 12 Feet $125
Wreath w/Bow Small (12”) $20
Wreath w/Bow Large (16”) $25
Wreath — Noble w/Bow Small (12”) $25
Wreath — Noble w/Bow Large (16”) $30
Frasier Fir Rope/Garland Per Foot $1
Decorated Wreath 3’ Diameter $75 Special Order Limited No.
Knights of Columbus Christmas Tree & Wreath Sale
Monday-Friday: 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. • Sunday: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Holy Name Society We look forward to seeing many parishioners, current and new
members at our next meeting on
Wednesday, December 16th at 7:00 p.m. Solar Room for the Rosary and regular business meeting with
refreshments to follow. Join us before the Christmas holidays for spiritual renewal.
Page 10
Help Wanted at St. Thomas More 1. Building Maintenance Position
Duties include the maintenance and repair of the St. Thomas More church and school buildings & grounds. The ideal candidate must
have experience in electrical, plumbing, construction and with HVAC systems. Requirements: Reliable transportation, a
valid driver’s license and the ability to lift at least 50 lbs. Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Some weekends and after-hours work may be required. Questions? Please call (219) 836-8610 for more information.
Send cover letter and resume to: [email protected]
2. Assistant Cook—School Cafeteria The STM School Cafeteria has a job opening for a part-time
Assistant Cook, beginning on January 5, 2016. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. daily, while school is in session.
Responsibilities include: preparing all salads and vegetables for the day, serving student lunches and helping with clean-up. Some heavy lifting is involved (30-40 lbs.), as well as standing for most of the day. Virtus Training is required; ServSafe Certification will
be required within the first year. Interested individuals should fill out an application available in the
Parish or School Offices. Questions should be directed to Linda Murray, Cafeteria Manager at (219) 836-9151, ext. 324 or
3. Part-Time Custodians Responsibilities include: cleaning offices, classrooms and restrooms, as well as event set-ups for church and school. Requirements: Must have experience in cleaning in a
commercial setting, be able to use various types of floor machines, read and follow directions and have reliable transportation
with a valid driver’s license. Position One:
Hours: Monday through Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Sunday, 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Position Two: Hours: Monday through Friday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
If interested in either of these two Part-Time Custodian positions, please apply in person at the STM Parish Office:
St. Thomas More Church • 8501 Calumet Avenue • Munster Questions? Please contact Karla Baldwin at (219) 836-8610, #331.
Bishop Noll Institute 2015 “Reach for the Stars” Raffle
Grand Prize — $20,000 2nd Prize -$5,000 • 3rd Prize -$2,000
4th-7th Prizes - $500 Tickets are only $10 each (available in the STM Parish Office).
Proceeds to benefit BNI scholarships. Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!
Drawing is December 1, 2015. Winner need not be present.
To learn more, please contact the school at (219) 932-9058.
Andrean High School Entrance Exam
Andrean High School is holding its first Entrance Exam for the Class of 2020 on
Saturday, December 5th from 8:00-11:30 a.m. All incoming freshmen are required to take the exam before
admittance to Andrean High School for the 2016-2017 school year.
Please enter through entrance M in the back of the school. Bring two #2 pencils. No calculators allowed.
There is NO FEE for our exam. No pre-registration required.
For more information contact Dawn @ 887-5959 ext. 228 or [email protected].
Planting Possibilities Help Planting Possibilities by
participating in Whole Foods-Schererville “One Dime at a Time”
Program Now through December 31st.
Shoppers who bring a reusable bag/s to the check-out can donate 10¢ to
Planting Possibilities. Be sure to tell the cashier!
Thanks for helping our organization!
Christmas Flower Memorials Donations for Christmas Flower Memorials will be taken until
Friday, December 11th at 9:00 a.m. Please return this form, or use the envelope in your packet, with your donation.
Place in the collection basket or return to the Parish Office no later than December 11th. Extra forms will be available in the office. Each memorial is $10.00.
In Memory of__________________________________________________________________
Donated by____________________________________________________________________
Amount Enclosed ($10 Each) $____________________________________________________
Page 11
Estate Planning Luncheon “Estate Planning: The A,B,Cs” will be presented by Cal Bellamy of
Krieg DeVault LLP on Thursday, December 3rd from 12:00 Noon-1:00 p.m. at White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point. This free event is sponsored by Calumet College of St.
Joseph. Includes lunch. Reservations are required: (219) 473-4318 or development @ccsj.edu by Monday, November 30th.
Faustina: Messenger of Divine Mercy This moving, live production performed by actress Maria Vargo brings to life the relevant story of St. Faustina’s encounter with Jesus. Presented at St. John the Evangelist Church on Thursday,
December 3rd at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $10. For tickets and info, contact the parish at (219) 365-5678 or [email protected].
Holiday Cookie Walk The Hospice of the Calumet Area’s Holiday Cookie Walk is
Saturday, December 5th at 9:00 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 8955 Columbia Avenue in Munster (across from The Community Hospital). Large assortment of homemade holiday cookies will be sold for $8.00 a pound. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. sharp. Come early for a good selection! If you can bake, please
contact Volunteer Coordinator Cynthia Camp at Hospice: (708)895-8332 or (219) 922-2732. Deliver cookies to Westminster
on Friday, December 4th, between 4:00 & 7:00 p.m. (use south entrance). Please include name of cookie & if nuts are included.
All Saints Church Pierogi Sale, $5/dozen until December 7th (pick-up 12/11 at
2:00 p.m.) Cookie Sale the weekend of December 5/6 before and after all Masses in the church. Small box-$5/large box $10.
Call the parish at (219) 932-0204 for more information.
St. James Parish Events Holiday Craft Fair & Bake/Pierogi Sale
December 5 from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall, 9640 Kennedy Avenue in Highland (corner of 45th &Kennedy). Find nut & poppy seed rolls, strudels, clothespin cookies, crepes, kolacky &
roshky, pierogi, nut & fruit breads & other holiday items. No advance orders. Light lunch in Santa's Snack Bar. Lots of vendors;
something for everyone from jewelry to holiday décor. Limited
number of vendors spaces available (contact Diane at (219) 924-1778 if interested). For info: Helen at (219) 924-5783.
K of C St. Valentine’s Dinner & Dance Early tickets are now being sold for the St. Valentine’s Day Dinner
& Dance on February 13th from 8:00 p.m. to Midnight in the Parish Hall. Tickets are advance sale only. $80/couple includes:
dinner buffet, dessert, favors and open bar. Doors open at 5:30 p.m./Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Music from 8:00 p.m. to Midnight. Tickets: Daniel at (219) 801-5250 or Robert at (219) 776-8773.
Weekly Pierogi Sale Order homemade pierogi from St. Josaphat Ukranian Church by calling (219) 838-9811 prior to Thursday (choose from potato, kraut, cheese or prune). Leave your name, phone number and
amount/flavor you’d like. Pick-up on Friday Noon to 4:00 p.m. at the church. Pierogis are $9.00/dozen or $4.50/half-dozen. Note: No orders will be taken during the week of Thanksgiving and
between December 18th and mid-January, so order early.
St. Matthias Events End of Life Planning Series: Plan for the future by attending this Funeral Planning session at 7:00 p.m. on December 12th,
101 W. Burrell in Crown Point. RSVP required: (219) 663-2201.
Polish Advent & Christmas Customs Join Rev. Walter Rakoczy of St. Mary of the Immaculate
Conception in Michigan City for his presentation, “Polish Advent & Christmas Customs” to be held at St. Mary School, 321 W. 11th Street in Michigan City (use entrance at 11th & Buffalo Streets) at
both 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 13th and 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 16th Admission is free, but seating is
limited. Reservations required by December 11th: (219) 873-1320.
Wigilia Christmas Luncheon The Polish Women's Alliance District 3 Wigilia Christmas Luncheon is set for Sunday, December19th at the Carmelite
Banquet Hall, 1628 Ridge Road in Munster. Doors open at Noon, with lunch served at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 for adults and $17.50 for children (ages 5 to 11). Proceeds will benefit the
organization's scholarship fund. Reservations are due by December 14th by calling Dolly Huneycutt at (219) 218-4420.
It’s So Easy to Order Gift Cards for the Holidays!
Processing Dates:
Monday, November 30 Monday, December 7
Monday, December 14 December 14th will be the last processing day
before Christmas.
Questions? Please contact our T.RI.P.
Volunteer Coordinator: [email protected].
The St. Thomas More School T.R.I.P. program is offered to all STM parishioners and friends. Enjoy the convenience of “one stop shopping” this holiday season by purchasing gift cards for
stores, dining, gas, grocery, lodging and services, too.
What is T.R.I.P? The T.R.I.P. Program at St. Thomas More is a simple way to
purchase gift cards: You pay nothing extra, as all gift cards are at face value (a $25 gift card costs you $25). The vendors pay St. Thomas More School a small percentage for offering this
service, so it helps our school, too. Sign up online, then simply place your order in the Parish Office on Monday mornings before 9:00 a.m. It will be waiting for you on Wednesday
afternoon after 3:00 p.m. Gift cards are sold at face-value, so it costs you nothing to use this service. Go to the St. Thomas More School website (under “Parents” tab) for details and get started now!
Page 12
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1
8:30 am All School Mass of the Toys
9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel
1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations-- Chapel
6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet Chapel
7:00 pm RCIA-Conference Room
7:00 pm K- 3rd Christmas Program Gym
2 9:30 am Bible Study Conference Room 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 5:00 pm RCIC Teachers’ Lounge 6:00 pm Handbells-Church
3 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale Church
4 9:00 am Gifts of Love/Warmth Conference Room
6:00 p.m. STMS
Pizza with Santa Gym
5 8:00 am First Saturday Rosary Church
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Santa’s Secret Shop
Solar Room 7:00 pm STMS Junior High Dance Gym
6 6:00 pm Advent Evening Prayer Church
7 8:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
8th Grade Confirmation
Retreat STM Gym
5:30 p.m.
Vigil Mass Immaculate Conception
7:00 pm Schola Choir-Church
7:00 pm Blue Army-Chapel
8 Feast of
Immaculate Conception
Masses: 6:30 & 9:00 a.m. 5:00 & 7:00 p.m.
10:00 am to 4:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel
9 9:30 am Bible Study Conference Room
4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes
5:00 pm RCIC-Teachers’ Lounge
6:00 pm Handbells-Church
6:45 pm Altar & Rosary Solar Room
7:00 pm SVDP-Conference Rm
10 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale Church
7:30 p.m. STMS
Band Concert Gym
11 9:30 a.m.
STMS Band Concert
Gym 9:00 am Gifts of Love/Warmth Conference Room 6:30 pm 4-H Club Cafeteria
12 9:00 am Pastoral Council Conference Room 10:00 am Oblates Teachers’ Lounge
13 6:00 pm Advent Evening Prayer Church
14 7:00 pm Vocation Committee Conference Room 7:00 pm Schola Choir Church 7:00 pm Blue Army Chapel 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus Solar Room
15 9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet Chapel
Penance Service 7:00 p.m. Church
16 9:30 am Bible Study Conference Room
4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes
5:00 pm RCIC Teachers’ Lounge
6:00 pm Handbells-Church
7:00 pm Holy Name Solar Room
17 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale Church 7:00 pm Career Networking Weis Center
18 9:00 am Gifts of Love/Warmth Conference Room
19
20
6:00 p.m. Lessons & Carols
Church
21 7:00 pm Schola Choir Church
7:00 pm Blue Army Chapel
22 9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel
1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel
6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet Chapel
23 24 Christmas
Eve Masses:
6:30 & 9:00 a.m.
5:30 p.m. Vigil Mass for
Christmas
25 Merry
Christmas! Masses:
12:00 Midnight 6:30, 8:00 & 10:00 a.m.
and 12:00 Noon
26
27 St. Vincent de Paul
Food Collection All Masses
28 7:00 pm Blue Army-Chapel 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus Solar Room
29 9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel
1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel
6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet Chapel
30 31
New Year’s Eve
Masses: 6:30 & 9:00 a.m.
5:30 p.m.
Vigil Mass for New Year’s
January 1
Happy New Year
Masses: 6:30, 8:00 &
10:00 a.m. and 12:00 Noon
Christmas Break • No School • No Religious Education Classes
Parish Office Closed
Christmas Break • No School • No Religious Education Classes
Parish Office Closed
December 2 0 1 5
Merry Christmas