Page

God gave the very best that He had: He gave His Son, Jesus, to us.

Jesus gave His life for us. Sacrifice doesn’t get any deeper than that.

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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 myadron@stm-church.com Associate Pastor ............................... Reverend Ted J. Mauch; Ext. 314 tmauch@stm-church.com 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 .................................. parish.office@stm-church.com Email address for bulletin ...................... bulletin@stm-church.com 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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Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time November 8, 2015

Saturday, November 14 5:30 p.m. Fr. Mike Yadron

Sunday, November 15 6:30 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 8:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 10:00 a.m. Fr. Ted Mauch 12:00 Noon Fr. Ted Mauch

SUNDAY, November 8 — Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Ronald Schumacher by Peter Murphy 10:00 am Josephine Bonefacic (Ann.) by Family 12:00 pm Andrew Caruso (Ann.) Wife Violet

MONDAY, November 9 — Dedication of the Lateran Basilica 6:30 am Cecilia Guzior (Ann.) by Family 8:30 am Ernest Havran by Wife & Family

TUESDAY, November 10 — St. Leo the Great 6:30 am Sandy Orzechowski by Bettianne Hackett 8:30 am Jerome Reppa by Marianne Hodor 10:00 am Louis Chronowski Sr. by STM Holy Name Society (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 2)

WEDNESDAY, November 11 — St. Martin of Tours 6:30 am Most Rev. Andrew G. Grutka 8:30 am Leo Huseman by Imelda Huseman

THURSDAY, November 12 — St. Josaphat 6:30 am Walter Keilman by Wife & Family 9:00 am Robert Nowak (Ann.) by Wife Ann & Family

FRIDAY, November 13 — St. Frances Xavier Cabrini 6:30 am Alvina Huttle (Ann.) by Jane Huttle 8:30 am Helen Vukobratic by Miriana Robinson

SATURDAY, November 14 8:30 am Thomas Baldwin by Don & Carolyn McGill 5:30 pm Helen Krull by Family

SUNDAY, Novemer 15 — Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Deceased Members of the STM St. Vincent de Paul Society 10:00 am Basil Rippey (Ann.) by Wife & Family 12:00 pm Donald Struble by Daughter Shirley

SATURDAY, November 14 8:30 am E. Miller, D. O’Brien 5:30 pm B. & M. Andrzejewski, J. Bernarte, M. Caraher, S. Donovan/MC ~ Matt H.

SUNDAY, November 8 6:30 am A., M. & S. McDunn 8:00 am A. Bilse, J. Cipowski, E. Gossman, G. Kenning, A. Korfiatis/ MC ~ Elizabeth Z. 10:00 am E. & K. McComis, S. O’Rourke, J. Olivencia, P. Olsen/ MC ~ Will 12:00 pm A. & M. Reynolds, E. Sopko/ MC ~ Chris

Edmund Kulik

Hannah Sue Daughter of

Jonathon & Theresa Vollink

Sacrificial Offerings

Thank you for your sharing your treasure with our parish!

November 1, 2015

Adult $ 19,652.94 Loose $ 2,745.00 Children $ 90.95

TOTAL $ 22,488.89

Readings for Week of November 8 Sunday: 1 Kgs 17:10-16/Heb 9:24-28/Mk 12:38-44 or 12:41-44 Monday: Ez 47:1-2, 8-9, 12/1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16-17/Jn 2:13-22 Tuesday: Wis 2:23--3:9/Lk 17:7-10 Wednesday: Wis 6:1-11/Lk 17:11-19 Thursday: Wis 7:22b--8:1/Lk 17:20-25 Friday: Wis 13:1-9/Lk 17:26-37 Saturday: Wis 18:14-16; 19:6-9/Lk 18:1-8 Next Sunday: Dn 12:1-3/Heb 10:11-14, 18/Mk 13:24-32

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 or dkapala@stm-church.com.

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lease pray for the sick of our parish... c Joshua Alvarez

Margaret Amatulli Frieda Andersen

Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio

Irene Baker 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 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

MONDAY, November 9 7:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel 7:00 pm Schola Choir ~ Church 7:00 pm Vocations Committee ~ Sacristy 7:00 pm Peace & Social Justice ~ Conference Room 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus ~ Solar Room

TUESDAY, November 10 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 7:00 pm Baptism Preparation Class ~ Teachers’ Lounge

WEDNESDAY, November 11 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 5:00 pm RCIC ~ Teachers’ Lounge 6:00 pm Handbells ~ Church 6:45 pm Altar & Rosary ~ Solar Room 7:00 pm STMS Parent Association ~ Cafeteria 7:00 pm St. Vincent de Paul Society ~ Conference Room

THURSDAY, November 12 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 6:30 pm Scripture Study ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church

FRIDAY, November 13 9:00 am Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Conference Room 6:30 pm STMS Mother-Son Dance ~ Gym

SATURDAY, November 14 10:00 am Oblates ~ Conference Room Behind the Scenes Capital Campaign Tour after 5:30 pm Mass

SUNDAY, November 15 Knights of Columbus Coffee & Donuts and Behind the Scenes Capital Campaign Tour after 8:00& 10:00 a.m. Masses

Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

"Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury." Just two small coins, worth only a few

cents--this was the greatest contribution of the day? Jesus explains that this widow's tiny sum was generous in a way that the larger amounts

people gave were not. Others made noticeable, "impressive" donations to the Temple treasury, which in fact cost them nothing. These were

simply "from their surplus wealth." But the poor widow "contributed all she had, her whole livelihood." She was truly generous, giving what

cost her dearly. Her contribution was made out of love, not just out of obligation or for the sake of show. God has given us all different "livelihoods." Some of us have more money, more talents, more

resources. Some of us have less. But of course we know that God's love for us is not based on this external data. He loves the rich and the poor

alike. The question is whether this external data affects our love for God. Sometimes, those who are poor are more aware of God's

providence and protection. Sometimes, they are bitter. As for those who are rich, it can be tempting to feel so comfortable and complacent that they don't recognize their need for God or his action in their lives. But Jesus' message challenges us all today to gratefully give back to God in thanks for whatever he has given us, be it small or great. We are called not to give from our surplus but to share from our very livelihood. That

is to say, we are called to acknowledge that our livelihood itself, no matter the details, is a gift from God. Let us follow the wisdom of the widow who showed gratitude for what she had and was truly generous

in spite of what she lacked.

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!

Bulletin Articles The holidays are fast approaching and printing deadlines will be earlier. All bulletin articles should be submitted via email at least

two (2) weeks in advance to bulletin@stm-church.com.

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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:

November 8: Deacon Melvin Jefferson (2003) November 10: Rev. Ben Domsich (1994) November 11: Rev. John B. Schaeffer (1975) Bishop Andrew G. Grutka, D.D. (1993) November 13: Rev. Mark Pesch, OFM (1985)

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE “Do you believe in life after death?” the boss asked one of his new employees. “Yes, sir,” the employee replied. “Well, then, that makes everything just fine,” the boss went on, “because after you left early yesterday to go to your grandmother’s funeral, she stopped in to see you.”

DID YOU KNOW? The holidays are fast approaching. As they do, people begin “pinching pennies” as they anticipate holiday expenditures. What often happens when parishes engage in capital campaigns is that the regular Sunday collection decreases. As happens in many other places, it is happening at St. Thomas More as well. We ask you, especially as the holidays approach, to please keep up with your regular Sunday collections. We need the capital campaign to make improvements in our church and school buildings. However, we need our regular Sunday collections to remain strong so that we may make our budgeted expenses. Thank you!

DO YOU HOLD BACK FROM GOD?

Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury.

Many rich people put in large sums.

A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents.

Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, “Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” (Mk 12:41-44)

Today’s readings speak to us about sacrifice. They recount stories of people who gave, who gave from their very want, and who, because they gave, were greatly rewarded.

That is the “miracle” of stewardship.

The more that one gives, the more God returns to the giver.

I think it is because God knows that the giver is not going to hoard the gift but will, rather, give it away to benefit someone else.

It is scary to do so.

The widow of Zarepath had no real reason to believe that she and her son would be provided for if she gave from the last of her food to a stranger (Elijah, the prophet). Yet, she trusted his words, gave of the last of her food, and was able to eat — she and her son, as well as the prophet — for a year. Many did not survive the famine; but, she and her son did.

The widow in today's Gospel gave the last of her money as a contribution in the temple. Jesus saw it, recognized it, and used her as a shining example of giving from one's want.

God gave the very best that He had as well. He gave His Son, Jesus, to us. Jesus gave His life for us. Sacrifice doesn’t get any deeper than that.

FAITH ACTION: Spend some time in prayer today identifying the many gifts with which God has blessed you. Determine how much you have been holding back and make a plan to share your gifts with others.

FORTY HOURS On Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday (November 22, 23, and 24), Fr. Keith Virus will be our guest speak at our annual Forty Hours celebration. He will speak each evening at 7:00 p.m. This year’s presentation is Becoming a member of God’s family and living this way. Please mark your calendar for this special three days of giving thanks and praise to our God.

MASS INAUGURATING HOLY YEAR OF MERCY There will be a special Mass at Holy Angels Cathedral on Sunday, December 20, 2015 to inaugurate the Holy Year of Mercy. Bishop Hying will open the Holy Door for the special Year of Mercy proclaimed by Pope Francis. All the faithful are invited to come to the Mass on that day. If you are interested, mark your calendar.

Religious Education

Page 6

November Schedule 11/12 Class 18/19 Class 25/26 No Class — Thanksgiving Break 28/29 Class

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

Lectors for the Week

Saturday, November 14 5:30 pm Mass Steve & Gloria

Pestikas

Sunday, November 15 6:30 am Mass

Robert Hill & Loretta Krawczyk

8:00 am Mass Richard Lasky & Paul Liszewski

10:00 am Mass Charles Helms & Maryanne Topor

12:00 Noon Mass Christopher Balbo & Cheryl Staniszewski

Circle of Prayer Ministry We are planning a special meeting for all members of the Circle

of Prayer Ministry. We hope that you can join us for a Breakfast Meeting—Monday, November 16th

10:00 a.m. at Skillets Restaurant (2040 45th Street in Port deLeu Plaza — Highland)

Please RSVP to Jane Wisniewski at (219) 924-9213 by Monday, November 13th.

New members are always welcome!

Vocations Committee This is National Vocation Awareness Week!

This week in the United States is dedicated to the promotion of vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. It’s a time of

prayer, catechesis, special homilies and reflection with testimonies from our religious.

We must all show greater vitality for the future of our Church! Say at least one prayer a day for more priests.

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. For more information, please contact

Deacon Dan Zurawski at (219) 742-6005 or email: deacondanz@outlook.com.

St. Vincent de Paul Society Fall is here and we all look forward to the bountiful harvest and the beautiful leaves of autumn splendor! As we look around us

let us reflect on the gifts God has given us.

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!

Please consider sharing your gifts with us, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, as we prepare to provide food to

others during this wonderful season. Any contributions you make are appreciated!

Saturday, November 14 5:30 pm Mass

Main: Michelle Romero Chapel: Rob & Dorothy

Mangus Choir: Catherine Delgado

Sunday, November 15 6:30 am Mass

Main: Jan Holka Chapel: John & Francis Plisky

8:00 am Mass Main: Paul & Jan Liszewski

Chapel: Mary Silvasi

10:00 am Mass Main: Andrea Mazerik

Chapel: James & Therese Salisbury

Choir: Cheryl Steinhauer

12:00 Noon Mass Main: Deborah Pastor Chapel: Susan Anglin

Greeters for the Week

If you would like to be a Greeter, please contact

Chris Shearman at (219)923-1419.

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St. Thomas More School November 8, 2015

Mark Your Calendars! Don’t Miss It! The Next STM School Production is Coming Soon!

The next STMS fall musical, The Lion King, Jr. will be appearing soon.

If you have attended a previous school production, then you know how talented our students are and you

won’t want to miss this one! Everyone is invited. See you there!

Thursday, November 19th Performances at 9:30 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Please be sure to enter and sign-in at the School Office for the 9:30 a.m. show.

Friday, November 20th Performance at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 21st Performance at 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 22nd Matinee Performance at 2:00 p.m. All shows in the STM Gym.

Red Ribbon Week During the month of October, St. Thomas More School students joined other schools

across the country for Red Ribbon Week, an alcohol, tobacco and

other drug and violence prevention awareness campaign observed

annually in the United States.

At STMS, students participated in a daily observation, usually

accompanied by a fun activity.

From “Hats Off to Being Drug Free” to “Team Up Against Drugs,” students learned valuable lessons

each day of the week. Congratulations to 5th grade student, Anna

Castillo, the STMS Poster Contest winner. Anna

received a $25 gift card from the Munster Police

Department for her award winning poster.

Save the Planet

Help St. Thomas More School

You can help the environment and St. Thomas More School by donating your obsolete and

spent electronics and ink cartridges. A collection box

can be found near the School Office daily. Drop items off

when you attend Mass.

Items accepted for recycling: Laptops

GPS Devices Headsets

Cell Phones & Chargers Tablets (iPads, etc.)

MP3 Players Inkjet & Toner Cartridges

Digital Cameras

Page 8

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.

Upcoming Meetings:

Wednesday, November 18th Social Gathering — “Cards & Games” Day!

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

Wednesday, January 13th Business Meeting and Social Gathering

Oblates Meeting Please join us for

readings, prayer and discussion. Saturday, November 14th

10:00 a.m. to Noon in the Conference Room.

All are welcome!

Gabriel Ministry There will be a regular meeting of the St. Thomas More

Gabriel Project Ministry on Wednesday, November 18th at 7:00 p.m.

in the Teachers' Lounge. We have a few new moms and some repeat moms to report on that evening, as well as a couple of new babies to rejoice over!

Hope to see everyone there!

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 merri-

ment. Remember, we always park in the north parking lot.

Holy Name Society Thanks to Bishop Hying and to all who attended our recent

Evening of Reflection at the Monastery. We had a wonderful evening and appreciate all who joined us for this event.

We hope to see many parishioners again for our Upcoming Meetings:

Monday, November 16th at 7:00 p.m. Meet in the Solar Room for the Rosary and meeting with

refreshments to follow. We will be discussing our Evening of Reflection.

New members are always welcome!

Knights of Columbus The St. Thomas More Knights of Columbus is hosting

Coffee and Donuts after the 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Masses on

Sunday, November 15th Please join us and take part in the fellowship of our parish.

Join the Knights of Columbus If you are interested in joining the Knights of Columbus, please

contact Brad Hemingway at (708) 951-5492.

Grief During the Holidays If you are dreading the holidays and wondering how you will get through them because you are grieving the loss of a loved one,

plan to attend this special session of Wounded Healers on Sunday, November 15th

from 2:00-4:30 p.m. at St. James Hall in Highland. A nationally recognized grief specialist with provide ways to cope. Round-table discussions with separate groups for those

dealing with the loss of a spouse/significant other, parent/friend or sibling or child/grandchild. Adult and teen groups for those

dealing with loss due to suicide, as well. Refreshments and social time to follow. (219) 924-5577/ www.woundedhealers-nwi.com.

Page 9

Here’s Your Chance!

Since February, you have heard how important our Capital Campaign is for making much needed improvements to

our church and school buildings. The need is growing greater as we begin to start our old boilers for winter heat! Parts can no longer be obtained and our current

inefficient system is leading to higher energy costs. We are nearing the end of our Campaign, and we need your help

so that this necessary work can begin soon.

Please! Submit your Campaign pledges ASAP! The sooner we have these vital funds pledged, the sooner we

can move ahead with this project.

Here’s your chance to see first hand how and where your contribution dollars will be utilized. Take advantage of this opportunity!

After Mass on the weekend of November 14th & 15th, tours will be given of the “behind the scenes” boiler/utility rooms and

restrooms. Meet by the School Office after Mass.

Saturday, November 14th Take a tour immediately after 5:30 p.m. Mass

Sunday, November 15th Tours immediately after the 8:00 & 10:00 a.m. Masses

Don’t forget to stop by the Cafeteria on Sunday after the 8:00 & 10:00 Masses for

Coffee and Donuts Provided by the Knights of Columbus

Page 10

STM Career Networking Group

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

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: STMCareerGroup@gmail.com

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, November 19th 7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.

Corrie Frank Project Manager of Special Projects

Progressive Logistics Consultant

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. Drawing is December 1, 2015. Winner need not be present.

Open House BNI invites families with prospective high school students to

tour our campus, meet faculty and staff and see show Bishop Noll Institute is

preparing students mind, body and soul at their upcoming Open House Sunday, November 8th 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

1519 Hoffman Street in Hammond. To learn more, please contact the school at (219) 932-9058.

Andrean High School

Open House Prospective students & their families are invited to join us for

our upcoming Andrean High School Open House Sunday, November 8 from 12:00 -3:00 p.m.

Come meet the Andrean family! Administration, faculty and staff will be available to answer questions. Tours of the building will be given by our students. Enter through door L in the back.

Financial Aid Meeting Learn about the options & pathways available to finance an

Andrean education. November 18 at 6:00 p.m. in the Cafeteria (enter through Door M in the back of the school).

Entrance Exam All prospective incoming freshman should plan to attend.

Saturday. December 5 at 8:00 a.m. No charge for the exam.

Please enter through Door M in the back of the school.

For more information about any of the above events, please contact Director of

Admissions and Financial Aid, Dawn Wojkovich @

(219) 887-5959, ext. 228 or admissions@andreanhs.com.

Andrean Trivia Night Join the Andrean Alumni Association for a Trivia Night on Saturday, November 14th beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Tablegating (tailgating at your table) begins at 6:00 p.m. Trivia begins at 7:00 p.m. in the school cafeteria.

Tickets are $10 per person ($80 for team of eight). The highest bidding team wins the assistance of Bishop Hying for a special

trivia category! To attend, complete form found on the Andrean website (andreanhs.org/Alumni tab/Alumni Events). Deadline

to register & pay is November 10th. Send your form and check payable to Andrean High School to the school at

5959 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410. Proceeds benefit AHS.

Respect Life Corner

Calling all Volunteers We are looking for people to work our annual telethon fundraiser on November 17 & 18. If you are interested, or have a student in

need of service hours, contact our office at (219)838-1138 or office@lakecortl.org for details or to sign-up.

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

March for Life 2016 The Office of Pro-Life Activities for the Diocese of Gary has a

few remaining openings for the annual pilgrimage to Washington, DC for the March for Life,

January 20-January 23, 2016. Pro-life leader is Rev. Theodore J. Mens. Activities include:

touring outdoor monuments, Smithsonian Institute and museums, visit the Basilica Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, attend “Evening of Prayer” at the Patriot Center in Fairfax VA, attend the Youth Rally & Mass before the March and participate in the

March for Life with 400,000 other pro-lifers! Travel is by deluxe motor coach with a 2 night stay at the Comfort

Inn-Pentagon. Non-refundable deposit of $50 due now. Balance of $300 due December 1st.

To learn more, contact Barbara Kolisz at (219) 924-4163.

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Marriage Encounter Weekends Jesus tells us of the widow who gave to God from her

livelihood. Do we put our trust in God and allow him to be Lord in every area of our life like the widow did? Allow God to

transform your marriage relationship. Strengthen, renew, and rekindle your marriage sacrament by attending a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekends on

December 11-13 • February 12-14 • April 8-10all at Elk Grove Village, IL. Early registration is highly recommended.

For reservations/information, call Jim & Kris at (630) 577-0778 or contact us through http://wwme-chicagoland.org .

You Did It for Me Located in a small community outside of San Luis Potosi,

Mexico, the women of Charcos formed a cactus nursery 19 years ago. The nursey of cacti is blooming and it now grows up to 107

species of cacti, plus some other plants they can sell. The successes of this community are thanks to the dedication &

shared interest in the Savings and Internal Lending Communities (SILC) program started in the region by Catholic Relief

Services. Learn more at: CRS.org/you-did-it-for-me

Help Wanted at STM 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 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: jobopenings@stm-school.com

Job Opening Executive Director Catholic Foundation for NWI

Position entails: responsibility for all operations of the Catholic Foundation, including donor relations, fund development, public

promotion, strategic planning, accounting & administrative services. Functions: working closely with the Board/committees

to carry out active marketing programs for cultivating gifts; providing on-going communication/support to donors/

beneficiaries & accurately maintaining donor records/financial accounts. Candidate must be a practicing Catholic familiar with faith & stewardship principles. Must submit resume online by

November 30th at www.catholicfuture.org. Info: Diana Murray at 9292 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410/info@catholicfuture.org.

Order Gift Cards for the Holidays!

Processing Dates: The processing dates will be as follows for

November & December : Monday, November 9 Monday, November 16

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: stmstrip@gmail.com.

Thank you.

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 seuvino@dcgary.org for details.

The St. Thomas More School T.R.I.P. program is offered to all St. Thomas More parishioners and friends.

You’ll love the convenience! Make your holiday shopping easy with this “one stop shopping.” Purchase gift cards for stores, dining, gas,

grocery, lodging and services, too. Get a head start on holiday shopping or start saving

for an upcoming vacation now.

What is T.R.I.P? The T.R.I.P. Program at St. Thomas More is a simple

way to purchase gift cards for your favorite retail spots and services. 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!

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 and

thanks for helping our organization!

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St. Matthias Events End of Life Planning Series

Plan for the future by attending this series. Meetings at 7:00 p.m. 101 W. Burrell in Crown Point .RSVP required: (219) 663-2201.

Wednesday, November 11th—Advance Medical Directives Wednesday, November 18th — Estate Planning

Wednesday, December 12th — Funeral Planning Mariachi Mass & Luncheon

Sunday, November 15th. Mass at 12:00 Noon followed by lunch in the parish hall with live mariachi music at 1:00 p.m. catered by

Nuevo Leon. Tickets: $25/person in advance (limited to first 240 paid guests). Purchase thru the parish office: (219) 663-2201.

Fall Craft & Vendor Fair Saturday, November 21st from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and

Sunday, November 22nd from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 Noon. Anyone wishing to participate as a vendor should contact Michelle

Thiel at dakota42598@yahoo.com or call (219) 662-9711.

Marian Theatre Guild The Marian Theatre Guild presents The World Goes Round,

highlighting the music of Kander and Ebb. Songs from Caberet, Chicago and more. Call

Monday-Friday between 7:00-9:00 p.m. for tickets: (219) 473-7555.

Saturdays, November 14 & 21 at 8:15 p.m. Sundays, November 15 & 22 at 3:00 p.m. Theater is located at St. John’s Church,

1844 119th Street in Whiting. Dinner packages available, too.

Las Vegas Night St. Mary Griffith

St. Mary’s Men’s Club is hosting a Las Vegas Night on Saturday, November 14th from

5:30 p.m. to Midnight at Hildebrandt Hall in Griffith. Admission: $10 (includes food, desserts, beer/wine, soft drinks). Casino

games/50/50/tip boards. Joe: (219) 838-7733.

Holiday Craft Fair St. Stephen's/Women's Club Holiday Craft Fair will be held at Our Lady of Consolation, 8303 Taft Street in Merrillville on Saturday,

November 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. & Sunday, November 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Homemade/ specialty

crafts, bake sale, door prizes/raffles, resale booth/more. Food at our Winter Wonderland Café. Maureen Miller at (219) 805-0619.

Hospice Artisan’s Holiday Boutique Saturday, November 14th from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Cloister in the Woods, 1101 Park Drive in Munster. Jump start your holiday

shopping. Paper goods, hand-knit accessories, polymer clay & beaded jewelry, fabric bags, gourmet foods, greeting cards, toys

and more. All proceeds benefit Hospice of the Calumet Area.

Holiday Luncheon Join the Whiting Senior Branch 81 for a Holiday Luncheon on Sunday, November 15th at 12:30 p.m. at the K or C ,1120-119th Street in Whiting. RSVP by Sunday, November 8th to Gerri at (219)310-8428 or Annette at (219) 659-3238. Guests —$20.00.

Thanksgiving Hymn Festival The NWI American Guild of Organists is presenting a

Thanksgiving hymn festival on Sunday, November 15th at 4:00 p.m. at the Valparaiso University Chapel. A free-will offering

will benefit the NWI Food Bank. Contact Beth Flynn for more info at: marye_flynn@hotmail.com or (219) 689-4758.

Weekly Pierogi Sale St. Josaphat Ukranian Church is selling pierogi. Reserve yours by

calling(219) 838-9811 prior to Thursday with your order (choose from potato, kraut, cheese or prune).

Leave your name, phone number and amount/flavor you’d like. Pick-up on Friday between Noon and 4:00 p.m. at the church.

Pierogis are $9.00/dozen/$4.50/half-dozen.

‘Images of God’ Retreat The Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN will

host the “Images of God,” Retreat from 7:00 p.m. Friday, November 20th to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 21 at

Providence Spirituality and Conference Center. Cost to attend is $90 (includes meals). For info & to register: (812) 535-2946 or ProvCtr@spsmw.org or

events.sistersofprovidence.org.

Day of Reflection The Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual

Adoration will be hosting a Day of Reflection for single, Catholic women age 16-30 on Saturday, November 21st at St. Elizabeth Convent in Lafayette, IN. For info or to

register: www.ssfpa.org/retreat.

St. James Parish Events The Knights of Columbus St. Pope John

Paul II - Council 16008 from St. James the Less in Highland is hosting these events:

Pancake Breakfast Sunday, November 29th from 7:30 a.m. to

1:00 p.m. in the St. James Parish Hall. Free-will donation. All are invited.

Please contact Dan Lelito at (219)923-5753 for more info. St. Valentine’s Day Dinner & Dance

Early tickets are now being sold for the 2nd annual St. Valentine’s Day Dinner & Dance to be held on February 13th from 8:00 p.m. to

Midnight in the Parish Hall. Tickets are going to be sold in advance only. $80/couple includes: dinner buffet, dessert,

favors and open bar. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner served at 6:30 p.m. Music from 8:00 p.m.-Midnight. To purchase tickets, contact: Daniel Mills-(219) 801-5250 or

Robert Mikuly-(219) 776-8773.

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 and includes lunch. Reservations are required. RSVP to (219) 473-4318 or development @ccsj.edu by

Monday, November 30th.